Sable Offshore Corp has announced progress in the reactivation of the Pacific Pipeline ( formerly called 901/903 ), after its closure in 2015. The Consent Decree signed in 2020 with federal and state agencies has led the company to establish an extensive repair and maintenance program.
The reactivation of the Pacific Pipeline
The pipeline was preserved with inert nitrogen to prevent corrosion , and more than 100 anomalies have been repaired, with another 50 scheduled. Restart is expected to occur in late 2024, after passing hydrostatic tests under government supervision.
The repair of the 124 miles of pipeline has involved a complete assessment of its integrity, using state-of-the-art technology to ensure it is in “ like new ” condition. The repairs have been carried out within the existing pipeline right-of-way, complying with strict safety standards.
More than 30 work teams, mostly unionized, have been involved in these tasks, guaranteeing an efficient process and meeting the expectations of regulatory authorities. Integrity tests also include the evaluation of anomalies such as the thickness of the pipeline wall , possible corrosion points and stability under pressure .
The restart of the Pacific Pipeline is vital for oil and gas production, as it connects offshore platforms to onshore processing centers. This project has an impact on energy security, and on the regional economy, because the repairs involve various communities and local authorities, including the California Coastal Commission , which oversees work in areas near the coast.
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Source and photo: Sable Offshore