Onboard Dynamics

Unique, Patented Natural Gas Compression Technology for Driving Down Emissions

Use Case: Adding a Valve During a Pipeline Intervention in Belgium

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Adding a Valve During a Pipeline Intervention

Onstream Pipeline Solutions (OPS) successfully utilized Onboard Dynamics’ (OBD) GoVAC® FLEX System to perform pipeline maintenance on a distribution line operated by a major Belgian network company. This use-case highlights the process of adding a valve during a pipeline intervention, showcasing OPS’s expertise in maintaining pipeline integrity and efficiency. This was a live project performed for demonstration purposes.

Onboard Dynamics environmental impact report
The Environmental Impact Report for This Project

Key Details

  • The pipeline owner and operator: A major Belgian network company, active in all Flemish cities and municipalities with approximately 5800 colleagues. 
  • OPS Technicians: Execute the valve installation.
  • OBD Technician: Performs the pipeline evacuation.
  • Location: Knokke-Heist, Belgium
  • Date: October 22, 2024
  • Pipeline Length: 300 meters
  • Pipeline Diameter: 10 inches
  • Total Natural Gas Evacuated: 3,257.65 SCF
  • Net Natural Gas Recovered: 1.64 MT CO2e

Process

Jeramy Cummings, the Operations Manager at Onboard Dynamics, shown here training OPS technicians to operate the GoVAC® FLEX System.
Jeramy Cummings, the Operations Manager at Onboard Dynamics, shown here training OPS technicians to operate the GoVAC® FLEX System.
  • Preparation: The operations team reviews the plan.
  • Evacuation: The pipeline is safely evacuated using the GoVAC® FLEX System, ensuring no residual gas remains.
  • Valve Installation: The OPS technician installs the valve, adhering to operational safety guidelines.
  • Re-pressurization: The pipeline is carefully re-pressurized, restoring operational capacity.
  • Documentation: The gas recovery process is documented by the system and provides metrics for the project for current and future reference.

Benefits

  • Efficiency: The GoVAC® FLEX System streamlines the process of evacuating natural gas from the pipeline, minimizing downtime.
  • Safety: The GoVAC® FLEX System is equipped with remote operations monitoring and communications.
  • Environmental Impact: The GoVAC® FLEX System prevents methane releases to the atmosphere contributing to reduced emissions and effective gas management during pipeline operations.
The GoVAC® FLEX System can operate in tight-fitting locations easily and quietly.
The GoVAC® FLEX System can operate in tight-fitting locations easily and quietly.

Conclusion

Successfully using the GoVAC® FLEX System to prevent methane releases into the atmosphere during pipeline evacuation demonstrates the owner and operator’s commitment to a sustainable energy infrastructure. It also exemplifies OPS’s technological leadership and commitment to customer-focused solutions in pipeline management.

With certified technicians and a fleet of well-maintained equipment, OPS continues to set the standard for operational excellence in the industry.