Laying pipeline is just one step in harvesting natural gas from Marcellus shale. All pipelines must be tested to ensure their integrity before gas is allowed to flow. In addition, access to vast quantities of water is critical to the fracking process itself. Finally, the need for well pad security to keep job sites safe and secure from malicious intruders is self-evident. Linde answers all these needs in support of the Marcellus shale industry in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Hydrostatic Testing
Hydrostatic testing is a way to test pipelines and other pressure vessels for structural integrity and strength. Hydrostatic testing exposes defective materials that have previously been undetected. Hydrostatic testing is the most common method of testing pipelines. It usually entails filling the pipe with an essentially non-compressible liquid (usually water) which is pressurized to a specified test pressure. Shutting off the supply valve and observing whether there is pressure loss tests the pipelines integrity. Hydrostatic testing is used with newly installed pipelines, then used again at regular intervals in what is often called a proof pressure test or modified hydrostatic test.
Pigging
This process involves the use of Pipeline Inspection Gauges or ‘pigs’ to perform various maintenance operations on a pipeline, all while maintaining the flow of product in the pipe. In oil and gas pipelines, pigs are used to dewater, clean, and inspect the pipes.
Caliper Pigging
On larger diameter pipe lines Linde makes use of a caliper pig to insure that there are no restrictions or anomalies which can cause problems down the road for the smart pigs.
Water Transport
Water is crucial to harvesting natural gas from the Marcellus shale under Pennsylvania. Tens of thousands of gallons are used at each well and this water must be brought fresh to the well pads and transported safely away for recycling and/or disposal.
Much of the water will be reclaimed during the gas harvesting process and ultimately—when cleaned–make its way back into the water supply. Linde planned early for the rising water needs of gas companies.
Steps and Processes Offered
- Brine Transport
- Vac Tank Trucks
- Deep Well Set Shoring
- Fresh and Residual Water Trucks Available
- Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) approved 905,000 gpd Surface Water Draw Permit
Well Pad Security
Linde is ready to provide security at the well pad sites. A confidential memo from the PA Department of Homeland Security to law enforcement officials in 2010 says opponents have targeted the industry with crimes of increased frequency and severity.
