The West Texas Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) System Optimization Project involved a joint venture pipeline that is operated by a major international energy company. The system extended from the southeast corner of New Mexico through West Texas, before terminating at Mont Belvieu, Texas.
Project Overview:
The LPG system previously moved 225,000 barrels of Natural Gas Liquids (NGLs) per day to the fractionation market. The owner’s project team identified an opportunity to optimize the pipeline system to address anticipated regional growth in West Texas. Several modifications to the system were required in order to be able to move LPG to various potential delivery/offload points throughout the system. The project included engineering modifications within three LNG and natural gas plants, three-meter stations, and one pump station.
Our Contribution:
EDM Services provided engineering and design support for the LPG pipeline facilities. Our firm prepared the engineering and design drawing used for construction (IFC) package. This work included the engineering for the following LPG system components: Three 1,500 (approx.) long pipelines to connect various pipelines and facilities, five scraper traps at various ends of pipelines, six custody transfer check meter skids, and seven tie-in piping manifolds. Included in this work were miscellaneous electrical, civil, and structural engineering designs. In addition to the project design specifications, the International Code Council Building Code International Building Code and the NFPA 70 National Electrical Code were also used as the basis for civil, mechanical, and electrical designs.
General Engineering Support: Was fundamental to the execution of the West Texas LPG System Optimization Project. EDM Services project management included overseeing the project budget, schedule, and scope.
Pipeline Engineering: Stood at the core of the optimization project. Pipeline engineering support included, but was not limited to, conducting substructure research, developing project design specifications, development of alignment drawings for efficient routing, hydraulic analysis, and calculations to validate pipeline component sizing.
Civil and Structural Engineering: Included the generation of detailed civil and structural drawings and calculations for all pipe supports, equipment foundations, and site design.
Mechanical Engineering: Support tasks ensured the pipeline system’s reliability and performance. These tasks involved completing the evaluation of the system hydraulics to design and specify the project mechanical components, material selection, and line classifications.
Electrical Engineering: Included the design and implementation of electrical systems for the metering sites and pipeline appurtenances. All designs were in compliance with the NFPA 70 National Electrical Code.
Design Drafting: Contributed to the project’s success by producing complete engineering drawings. The drawing development includes a drawing package including general drawings (e.g., plot plans, index maps, and engineering notes), detailed piping drawings, alignment sheets, civil and structural details, tie-in details, and pipe modeling.
Construction Support Tasks: During construction, EDM Services continued to provide coordination and communication support with the construction teams. The ongoing support was key for keeping the project on schedule and ensuring a smooth transition from design through commissioning.
Summary:
EDM Services is pleased to have played a key role in the West Texas LPG System Optimization Project. This project’s success was rooted in enhanced performance, safety, and industry standards, benefiting not only the project itself but also the communities it serves. Providing the highest quality services to our clients remains the backbone of our firm. For inquiries or more information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.