CASE STUDY
New layout design for HIPPS installation
Written By IMI Publications
March 24, 2023
The Challenge
A large Latin American oil & gas company was inviting bids for a new High Integrity Pressure Protection System (HIPPS) to replace its existing manual valves. However, the system layout did not have space to install the usual quarter-turn actuators and the operator was seeking a more cost-efficient alternative to buying more expensive compact actuators.
3D model of IMI piping system showing pneumatic cylinders oriented at a precise angle to eliminate walkway obstruction caused by the original actuator spring cylinder. Colouring is representative of model elements only. Supports messaging around engineered safety and spatial optimisation.
The Solution
Although it is not typical at the bid stage, IMI decided to dedicate engineering resource to the problem. One of IMI’s Valve Doctors worked closely with a Mechanical 3D Engineer to create a 3D model of the plant layout. The model confirmed that the routing of piping and an adjacent walkway could not accommodate the typical quarter-turn actuators that would normally be installed alongside IMI Truflo Italy ball valves. However, it also allowed the IMI team to design a new layout that could accommodate standard IMI STI actuators.
The solution was to install a clock-wise and a counter-clock-wise actuator, positioned at precise angles to the longitudinal valve-piping axis. This layout would protect the walkway, which is needed for inspections, maintenance and, in extreme circumstances, as an escape route. It would also provide enough clearance to prevent collisions with the existing piping.
The design assured the client that the proposed layout was feasible, and also meant that IMI’s bid was cost-effective for the client, without compromising on material quality or sourcing from low-cost countries.
