IK-Group's Subsea team was tasked with the urgent repair on a X-mas tree flange couple at 820 m water depth, which would aid the critical supply of gas needed for the Philippines power production.
The challenge they faced was a leak in a flange couple with pressure approx. 200 Bar, and limited space and accessibility. Initially, the team's studies resulted in a a number of potential solutions. One idea was to use a special sealant which only solidifies and seals where there is a drop in pressure. A clamp would be put around the flange and the sealant would be pushed into the leakage. Usually this would be actioned from within but as there was no way of doing that, it was decided to try this approach.
After a number of trials, tests, different prototypes and FAT Testing, the installation was a success which resulted in major cost savings. IK-Group was awarded an “Outstanding Achievement Award” from Shell for its efforts.
