Dope-Free Technology in Oilfield Tubulars Reduces Environmental Discharge Amongst Other Benefits

摘要

Environmental impact reduction is an essential component that compliments the commitment of every Oil and Gas Operator, Service provider, etc. towards the promotion of a greener environment. From the planning phase of oilfield operations, OCTG-Oil-Country Tubular Goods require the use of thread compounds (pipe dope) to protect machined surfaces from environmental corrosion, to lubricate the connections during installations and also provide sealability among other expectations. From the production, storage, preparation for operations, running and installation of OCTG, the use of thread compounds cannot be overlooked. These compounds like most Oilfield chemicals expose both personnel and environment to a harmful condition, placing all personnel involved in this value chain of material and service delivery affected one way or the other. A technologically crafted modern solution/ alternative was developed in 2003 to fully eliminate the use of these thread compounds-A Dope-Free Solution replacing both storage and running compounds (Carcagno, G., Castineiras, T., & Dag, J., 2007). These Dope-Free connections are equipped with a dry coating applied through a controlled industrial process. It was first developed to meet the strict environmental requirements in the North Sea. In line with the "zero discharge" policy, this dry coating applied onto threads soon demonstrated other operative, health and safety advantages as compared to the traditional thread compounds. A presentation is made highlighting the benefits with the use of the Dope-Free technology, with a focus on health, safety and environment impact during storage, cleaning, inspection, running and post running operations including waste management. Two areas where tubular are used are considered; Rig site and Service yards. For example, the elimination of human application of thread compounds, the elimination of the need to clean thread protectors which could amount to other operative costs. In this study, a side by side comparison is done to realize the benefits.