Patent ID: 7905251
Filing Date: 2011-03-15
Classification: E21B,F17D,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method for the operational safety testing of a high integrity protection system (HIPS) connected to a wellhead pipeline, the method comprising: providing a HIPS that has first and second sets of surface safety valves (SSVs) in fluid communication with the pipeline, the two sets being in parallel with each other, each set of SSVs having two SSVs in series, the outlet of the second set of SSVs being connected to the outlet of the first set of SSVs such that the outputs of both sets of SSVs proceed through a common outlet pipe, the SSVs being operable in response to signals from a safety logic solver; moving the first set of SSVs from an open position to a closed position for a tight shut-off safety test while the second set of SSVs is open as a flowline for the pipeline; and actuating an alarm signal if the first set of SSVs do not maintain the pressure in the piping between the SSVs at or below a predetermined threshold level.