At Firstgas, keeping gas flowing safely and reliably to more than 300,000 homes and businesses across the North Island means constantly investing in the long-term health of our pipeline network.
That work has brought our teams to Awakau, Taranaki, where we carried out a complex repair on the Maui pipeline using innovative BISEP technology, the first tool of its kind to be used in New Zealand.
The BICEP tool at Awakau, Taranaki
The project involved repairing a wrinkle in the pipeline, a deformation in the steel that needs to be proactively repaired to protect the long-term integrity and reliability of the network. Traditionally, this type of work would require shutting down large sections of pipeline while repairs were completed.
But the introduction of the BISEP (Branch Installed Self Energised Plug) tool is changing the way these repairs can be carried out.
The BISEP is a specialist isolation tool that seals off a section of pipeline from the inside, creating a secure barrier so work can be completed safely and efficiently. Once installed, it forms a double seal that is continuously monitored before any cutting or welding begins.
Hayden Hanley - Pipeline Mechanical Technician
Hayden Handley, Firstgas Pipeline Technician said, “For this project, gas is being redirected through a temporary bypass, allowing our teams to carry out repairs while keeping gas flowing to customers without interruption.
“The technology is also helping improve safety for our teams, limit gas loss during repairs, and reduce the associated emissions, said Hayden.
Projects like this involve months of planning before work even begins on site.
“There’s a huge amount of preparation behind a project like this,” says Hayden. “Every step has to be carefully engineered, tested and confirmed before we move forward. It’s a smarter, safer way of doing this type of work, and we’re proud to be delivering it here on the Maui pipeline.”
Watch the video below to hear more from Hayden about the Awakau wrinkle repair project and how the BISEP tool works.
