How to Reduce Fugitive Emissions From Gas Pipelines in Alberta

Fugitive emissions are a major target in the fight against climate change. While many jurisdictions, including Alberta, regulate fugitive emissions in the oil and gas industry, most policies focus on upstream operations. However, midstream and downstream operations, including gas pipelines, produce emissions as well.

Reducing fugitive emissions from gas pipelines requires challenging measures, like monitoring lengthy pipelines and repairing equipment that is difficult to access. However, there are a few easy ways to reduce emissions, such as replacing leaky valves and other components. By minimizing the potential for leaks and detecting and repairing them as quickly as possible, gas pipeline operators can ensure their pipelines comply with regulations and minimize losses of valuable natural gas. Here, we’ll look at some of the most effective ways to reduce fugitive emissions in gas pipelines.

Replace Aging Valves

Valves account for more than half of total fugitive emissions in a typical natural gas operation. These emissions usually come from older valves that have worn out, weren’t installed properly, or weren’t designed with the latest materials and technologies.

A fugitive emissions management program can identify these problem valves, which can then be replaced with modern technology with higher-quality seal material and improved engineering design. When replacing valves, it’s a good idea to consult a fluid systems expert who can help you identify potential leak points and high-risk components that you may not have been aware of and choose the best valve types for your pipeline.

Adjust or Replace Valve Packing

Valve leakage can often be reduced or eliminated by adjusting the stem packing rather than replacing or rebuilding the valve. There are rebuild kits available that can be used to easily adjust or replace valve packing. If replacing packing isn’t enough, they can also be used to rebuild the valve. You can also reduce emissions by installing low-E valve packing, which is flexible, doesn’t shrink, and won’t absorb moisture.

Follow a Valve Preventive Maintenance Program

Following a preventative maintenance plan can help to identify and correct small problems before they become big ones. Thorough inspections can identify potential issues such as corrosion, leaks, and build-up, which can be repaired while avoiding transport stoppages. Simple practices like tightening loose connections and inspecting and maintaining pneumatic instruments can significantly reduce fugitive emissions over time if performed routinely.

Accessible components like pump and compressor seals and pressure relief devices should be inspected for leaks frequently. Components that are inaccessible or unsafe to monitor may need to be inspected less frequently but should still be part of the preventive maintenance program. Repaired leaks should be reinspected after the corrective action to ensure the repair was effective.

Check Flanges and Connections

While valves account for the majority of fugitive emissions in gas pipelines, other simple fixes can make a difference too. For example, checking pipe flanges for leaks and tightening them is an easy way to reduce emissions.

Any connection between components, such as gauges, seals, instrument panels, and rotating equipment, can be a potential source of fugitive emissions. Just like valves, these components can wear down over time or leak because of incorrect installation, causing increased emissions. It’s important to regularly check these components as part of your fugitive emissions management program so leaking components can be quickly repaired or replaced.

Small improvements like replacing threaded connections with flanged connections or tube fittings can be a cost-effective way to reduce fugitive emissions. Because every system has its own complexities, it’s important to consult with an experienced gas systems specialist to evaluate your pipeline’s specific needs and risks.

Replace High-Bleed Pneumatic Devices

Pneumatic devices are often used to operate valves and control pressure in gas pipelines. When powered by natural gas, these devices can be one of the largest sources of fugitive emissions in gas pipelines. Fugitive emissions from pneumatic devices can be reduced by:

• Replacing pneumatic devices with electric or mechanical controllers
• Using compressed air instead of natural gas to power pneumatic devices
• Replacing high-bleed pneumatic devices with low-bleed devices
• Regularly inspecting devices for fugitive emissions and repairing them when necessary

Look to Local Experts to Reduce Fugitive Emissions from Gas Pipelines

Edmonton Valve & Fitting is here to provide our years of expertise to Alberta gas pipeline operators. We can help reduce fugitive emissions in your gas pipeline by providing leak detection services and emissions-reducing valves, fittings, and other components. Our expert Field Advisors can perform an onsite evaluation to identify potential leak points and recommend component upgrades to help reduce fugitive emissions in your pipeline.

The best way to prevent fugitive emissions in gas pipelines is to use high-quality, leak-resistant components. Swagelok valves—which passed the API Low-E test for fugitive emissions without modification—exceed the strictest standards in the industry to ensure your people and equipment are protected by the most advanced, high-quality valves and components available. Furthermore, all our products are backed by Swagelok’s industry-leading Limited Lifetime Warranty.