About Pipeline Gels
What Are Pipeline Gels?
Pipeline gels, also known as pipeline cleaning gels or pipeline pigging gels, are viscous substances that are used in the oil and gas industry to clean and maintain pipelines. They are designed to be pumped through pipelines to remove contaminants, such as scale, debris, and sediment, that can accumulate over time and hinder the flow of oil or gas.
Here are some key points about pipeline gels:
1). Composition: Pipeline gels are typically composed of a base gel material, which can be a water-based or oil-based gel. The gel is formulated with additives and chemicals that help dissolve or disperse contaminants and facilitate their removal from the pipeline walls.
2). Cleaning Process: The gel is injected into the pipeline and circulated through the system using pumps or other equipment. As the gel flows through the pipeline, it adheres to the inner surface, breaking down and removing deposits and obstructions. The gel is then flushed out of the pipeline along with the dislodged contaminants.
3). Advantages: Pipeline gels offer several advantages for pipeline cleaning and maintenance. They can effectively remove deposits and obstructions without the need for mechanical scraping or pigging devices. This can reduce downtime and operational costs associated with manual cleaning methods. Gels can also be used to clean long-distance or hard-to-reach pipelines.
4). Types of Contaminants Removed: Pipeline gels are effective in removing various types of contaminants found in pipelines, including scale, rust, wax, hydrates, and other debris. The specific formulation of the gel may be tailored to target certain types of contaminants based on the characteristics of the pipeline and the nature of the deposits.
5). Environmental Considerations: Pipeline gels should be formulated and used in compliance with environmental regulations. They should be designed to be environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and non-toxic. Proper disposal methods should be followed after cleaning operations to ensure minimal impact on the environment.
6). Application and Compatibility: Pipeline gels can be used in different types of pipelines, including crude oil pipelines, natural gas pipelines, and refined product pipelines. The compatibility of the gel with the pipeline material, such as steel or concrete, should be considered to avoid any potential adverse effects on the pipeline integrity.
It’s important to note that pipeline gels are just one method of pipeline cleaning and maintenance, and the selection of the appropriate cleaning method depends on factors such as the nature of the deposits, pipeline configuration, and operational requirements. Consulting with experts and following industry best practices is crucial when using pipeline gels or any other pipeline cleaning techniques.
Trade Process
Our trade process spreads across CIF, FOB, TTO, and TTT, depending on the buyer’s preference.
Here’s what they entail:
1). Cost Insurance and Freight (CIF): Here, the seller will handle everything from loading the vessel, paying for insurance, and sending the product to wherever the buyer wants it delivered.
2). Freight On Board (FOB): Here, the seller pays for the transportation of the goods to the port of shipment, plus loading costs, while the buyer pays the cost of marine freight transport, insurance, unloading, and transportation from the originating port to the final destination.
3). Tanker Take Over (TTO): Here, the buyer will take over the vessel, offload the product at their destination, and return it.
4). Tanker To Tanker (TTT): Here, the buyer uses their own vessel, long sides with the seller’s vessel, and then the cargo is transshipped when the transaction is fully settled.