Question
Question One (a) A production well operating normally became less productive shortly when its design tonnage was not reached. As a production technician. (i) List three cause causes of this. ( 03 marks) (ii) Explain how the above situation can be rectifled to regain normal production. ( 02 marks) (b) An oil and gas pipeline was neglected during the routine inspection. As an operator on shift; (i) Elaborate two likely dangers that may occur due to the above omission. (02 marks) (ii) Recommend four corrective measures to avoid the dangers mentioned in b (i) above. (04 marks) (c) Discus three responsibilites of the pipeline management department. (09 marks)
Answer
4.2
(336 Votes)
Howard
Master · Tutor for 5 years
Answer
1. (a)(i) 1. Equipment malfunction 2. Blockage in the pipeline 3. Reduced reservoir pressure (a)(ii) 1. Regular maintenance checks 2. Clearing any blockages 3. Enhancing reservoir pressure through secondary recovery techniques (b)(i) 1. Pipeline leakage 2. Explosion risk (b)(ii) 1. Regular inspection schedules 2. Immediate repair of detected damages 3. Installation of leakage detection systems 4. Training of personnel on emergency response (c) 1. Ensuring pipeline integrity 2. Regular maintenance and inspection 3. Emergency response planning
Explanation
1. (a)(i) A production well may become less productive for various reasons. Equipment malfunction can lead to reduced efficiency in extracting oil or gas. Blockages in the pipeline can restrict the flow of oil or gas, leading to reduced production. Reduced reservoir pressure means that the natural force pushing the oil or gas to the surface has decreased, leading to reduced production. (a)(ii) To rectify the situation and regain normal production, regular maintenance checks can help identify and fix equipment malfunctions. Clearing any blockages in the pipeline will ensure a smooth flow of oil or gas. Enhancing reservoir pressure through secondary recovery techniques, such as water or gas injection, can help increase production. (b)(i) Neglecting an oil and gas pipeline during routine inspection can lead to several dangers. Pipeline leakage can result in the loss of valuable resources and environmental contamination. There's also a risk of explosion if the leaked oil or gas comes into contact with a spark or flame. (b)(ii) To avoid the dangers mentioned, it's crucial to have regular inspection schedules to detect any damages or vulnerabilities in the pipeline. Immediate repair of detected damages will prevent further deterioration. Installing leakage detection systems can help in early detection of any leaks, and training personnel on emergency response can ensure quick action in case of any mishaps. (c) The pipeline management department has several responsibilities. Ensuring pipeline integrity means that the pipeline is in good condition and can transport oil or gas safely. Regular maintenance and inspection are crucial to detect and fix any damages or vulnerabilities. Emergency response planning ensures that in case of any mishaps, there's a plan in place to handle the situation efficiently and minimize damage.