Pig traps are devices enabling the insertion of internal surface cleaning 'pigs' into a pipeline.

The pig traps are located on the FPSO's soft yoke mooring platform. Due to space limitations SBM required an alternative to permanent actuators. As the valves are large diameter gate valves with very high torques, gearboxes were fitted but with the drawback of requiring many more handwheel turns.

SBM approached SFC with the problem. It was decided that Easi-Drive portable actuators would be a cost effective solution. They are specifically designed for use in cramped or hazardous areas where high torque or a large number of handwheel turns make valves difficult or dangerous to operate.

By reducing operation to a one man activity, they also eliminate operator fatigue and reduce the risk of injury while also increasing operator efficiency by greatly reducing valve operating time.

Easi-Drive guns are available with pneumatic, hydraulic or electric power and can be run on adjacent plant air or single phase electrical supply.

Since the initial order, SBM has ordered more interlocks adapted for Easi-Drive use which will be fitted to valves previously only manually operated.

MJ Information No: 17408