Drips of ‘pitch’ were found from the cooler on the A train at Troll C. According to the Petroleum Safety Authority (PSA), the cooler was isolated with inspection revealing cracks in the steel.
Following an inspection of the cooler on the B train, which is subject to similar operating conditions, corrosion and crack formation also came to light. Both trains have since been shut in.
The PSA’s investigation will involve a review of the chain of events; an assessment of the actual and potential consequences, and a probe into the causes.
In connection with the investigation, the PSA will:
Identify proximate and underlying causes
Use necessary sanctions to rectify any breaches of the regulations
Publish the results of the investigation
Contribute to the transfer of experience and lessons learned to other industry participants.
The Troll field is in the northern North Sea, 65 km (40 mi) west of Kollsnes. Troll C is part of Troll Phase II. Produced gas is transported in multi-phase pipelines to Kollsnes where the condensate is separated from the gas for onward delivery.
