Large Scale Pipeline Flushing and Preservation Project

Client Asset: Devil Creek Gas Plant - Santos
Service Support: Omega Analytic

A female worker in safety gear, including a yellow and navy uniform, helmet, and gloves, is conducting tests with samples at an oil or gas facility. She is handling testing equipment and samples labeled 'Line Flush Sample' on a table, with an industrial plant and pipeline infrastructure in the background.

Project Overview

Omega Analytic was engaged to provide analytical and field support services during the flushing, pigging, cleaning, and long-term preservation of over 100+ kilometers of pipeline infrastructure. The scope involved preserving pipeline integrity following suspension of operations and implementing a chemical preservation program designed to protect the asset for lay-up period prior to future reactivation.

This large-scale project required continuous monitoring, laboratory coordination, and strict quality control to ensure the pipeline met cleanliness and preservation specifications.

Scope of Work

1. Pipeline Flushing & Pigging Support

  • Monitoring of progressive flushing stages across multiple pipeline sections

  • Sampling during pigging operations to assess removal efficiency

  • Verification of cleanliness criteria prior to preservation

2. Oil in Water Concentration Testing

  • Field sampling to determine residual oil-in-water concentrations

  • Laboratory analysis to confirm compliance with cleanliness thresholds

  • Trending of hydrocarbon reduction throughout flushing stages

3. Sampling & Chain of Custody Management

  • Structured fluid sampling regime for onshore laboratory testing

  • Proper labelling, documentation, and secure handling of all samples

  • Full chain of custody compliance for safe transportation and traceable analysis

  • Coordinated reporting to client and engineering teams

Challenges

  • Extensive pipeline length exceeding 100 km requiring coordinated sectional monitoring

  • Variable monitoring of oil concentration levels across different segments

  • Tight operational schedule requiring rapid turnaround of analytical results

  • Ensuring sample integrity during transport from offshore/remote locations to onshore laboratories

Omega Analytic’s Approach

Omega Analytic deployed experienced field personnel to provide continuous analytical oversight during flushing and pigging operations. Real-time testing enabled the operations team to optimise flushing efficiency, reduce chemical consumption, and confirm readiness for preservation.

Through structured sampling procedures and strict chain of custody protocols, all laboratory results were traceable, auditable, and compliant with client and regulatory standards.

Outcomes

  • Successful flushing and cleaning of over 100 km of pipeline

  • Verified reduction of oil in water concentration to within specification

  • Full chain of custody compliance with zero sample discrepancies

  • Safe execution with no environmental or safety incidents

Value Delivered

Omega Analytic provided end-to-end analytical assurance for a complex pipeline cleaning and preservation program. Through precise testing, data-driven optimisation, and strict quality control processes, the client achieved confidence that the pipeline asset is preserved, protected, and ready for future recommissioning when required.