IK-Group’s Topsides Business Area were tasked by an international client to find a solution for a leaking valve in a black liquor pipe on a paper manufacturing plant in Europe. In order to do this, a 2000 cubic meter large tank needed to be isolated to replace the leaking valve. IK had never experienced this kind of pipe medium before, but the team were up for the challenge!
After a task force review, our specialist team of engineers concluded pipe freezing with generating of an ice plug would be the most efficient and cost-effective solution. With the use of a client-provided sample of the actual pipe medium, black liquor, the team executed a pre-qualification test in our workshop facilities in Stavanger. This test was vital to ensure the solution was fault-proof before the operation began.
The field operation was a success and the client was very happy with the outcome.
“This was the first freeze plug operation for this client, and I am very happy to show that modification without emptying the tank could be executed. For us it was exciting to encounter a new medium like black liquor and having a successful operation. Looking forward to building a strong relationship with the client and explore new challenges together.”
Roald Kolnes
