Académique Documents
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VOLUME 4 – 2009
SANCTIONED
Edition 3.1
Sanction October
Date 2009
COPYRIGHT/RIGHT TO REPRODUCE
Copyright for this Industry Recommended Practice is held by Enform, 2009. All rights
reserved. No part of this IRP may be reproduced, republished, redistributed, stored in a
retrieval system, or transmitted unless the user references the copyright ownership of
Enform.
DISCLAIMER
This IRP is a set of best practices and guidelines compiled by knowledgeable and
experienced industry and government personnel. It is intended to provide the operator
with advice regarding the specific topic. It was developed under the auspices of the
Drilling and Completions Committee (DACC).
The recommendations set out in this IRP are meant to allow flexibility and must be used
in conjunction with competent technical judgment. It remains the responsibility of the
user of the IRP to judge its suitability for a particular application.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data and
recommendations contained in the IRP. However, DACC, its subcommittees, and
individual contributors make no representation, warranty, or guarantee in connection
with the publication of the contents of any IRP recommendation, and hereby disclaim
liability or responsibility for loss or damage resulting from the use of this IRP, or for any
violation of any legislative requirements.
AVAILABILITY
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Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
List of Figures.......................................................................... v
Appendix III............................................................................ 9
Recommended Drill Stem Testing Services Inspection Checklist .....................9
October 2009 i
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
Appendix IV .......................................................................... 39
Lease Layout Schematics ........................................................................ 39
Sweet Wells .......................................................................................... 40
Frac Flowback with Pressure Tank Minimum Spacing Requirements .............. 40
Cold Separators Minimum Spacing Requirements ....................................... 41
Heated Test Unit Minimum Spacing Requirements...................................... 42
Sour Wells ............................................................................................ 43
Frac Flowback with Pressure Tank Minimum Spacing Requirements .............. 43
Heated Test Unit, Pressure Tank and Closed Pressure Storage Tanks Minimum
Spacing Requirements ..................................................................... 44
Heated Test Unit and Pressure Tank Minimum Spacing Requirements ........... 46
Appendix V ............................................................................ 47
Production Testing Services Inspection Checklist ....................................... 47
Appendix VI .......................................................................... 53
FLARESTACK MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM FLARE RATES ...................................... 53
Gas Exit Velocity of 50.8 mm (2”) Pipe ..................................................... 54
Gas Exit Velocity of 76.2 mm (3”) Pipe ..................................................... 55
Gas Exit Velocity of 101.6 mm (4”) Pipe ................................................... 56
Gas Exit Velocity of 152.4 mm (6”) Pipe ................................................... 57
Gas Exit Velocity from 203.2 mm (8”) Pipe ............................................... 58
Gas Exit Velocity from 254 mm (10”) Pipe ................................................ 59
ii October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
LIST OF TABLES
Well Testing Review Committee Members .................................................. ix
Table 1: Flammable Limits .................................................................. xxviii
Table 2: Pressure Rating of Seamless Pipe ................................................. lv
Table 2: IRP 15.3.1.5 Reserve Circulation Sand Cleanout Equipment ............ 72
iv October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Code for Electrical Installations at Oil and Gas Facilities ................ 28
Figure 2: Propane Saturation Curve ......................................................... 75
Figure 3: Propane - Heat of Vaporization Volume Basis ............................... 76
Figure 4: Liquid Vapour Chart.................................................................. 77
October 2009 v
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
The purpose of this document is to ensure that guidelines for well testing and fluid
handling operations are in place and readily available for all personnel.
4.0.2 AUDIENCE
The intended audience of this document includes oil and gas company engineers, field
consultants, well testing and fluid hauling personnel, other specialized well services
personnel, and regulatory bodies.
This IRP includes pertinent information about well testing, including the following:
• Personnel Requirements
• Operational Procedures
IRP 4 supplements existing standards and regulations, and provides guidelines and
recommendations where none existed previously. It also refers to other pertinent
standards where appropriate, and provides information on how to access them. A full list
of the documents referred to in this IRP plus other useful reference material is provided
in APPENDIX VIII.
Industry recommended practices (IRPs) are developed by Enform with the involvement of
both the upstream petroleum industry and relevant regulators. IRPs provide a unique
resource outside of direct regulatory intervention.
This is the second revision to IRP 4. Those who have been familiar with the first two
editions of IRP 4 should take the time to review this edition thoroughly, as it has been
vi October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
completely redeveloped to address issues brought forward since the last edition by
industry and government stakeholders.
Technical issues brought forward to the Drilling and Completions Committee (DACC) as
well as scheduled review dates can trigger a re-evaluation and review of this IRP, in
whole or in part. For details on the specific process for the creation and revision of IRPs,
visit the Enform website at www.enform.ca.
In 1999, the scope and breath of recommended practices encompasses many more
issues, companies, associations and governments. The reference to Alberta in the title of
these practices is changed to industry (IRP ) to better reflect the broader scope. Where
industry has grown to other regions of western Canada, these IRP’s continue to assist
companies in their daily operations; These IRP’s are intended to follow the user to any
site, anywhere in the world, as a minimum operating practice.
In 2005 IRP 4 needed a review and update to reflect the changes in industry and
legislation. With approval from DACC a new committee was formed to address the need
for a complete review and update of the document.
In 2009 IRP 4 added a new section 4.3.7 High Reid Vapour Fluid Recovery and Handling
Hyperlinks were updated on all other sections.
4.0.6 SANCTION
• Saskatchewan Labour
4.0.7 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This IRP under the auspices of the Drilling and Completions Committee (DACC), was
originally developed as an Alberta Recommended Practice (ARP) by the Well Testing and
Fluid Handling subcommittee, and subsequently updated by the Well Testing Committee
in 1999.
October 2009 ix
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
This IRP includes documents or excerpts of documents as follows, for which permission to
reproduce has been obtained:
4.0.9 SCOPE
The purpose of this series of IRPs is to enhance safety during well testing and fluid
handling operations of gas and oil wells.
4.1 Drill Stem Testing contains recommended practices for DST operations including: test
planning, as well as pre-test, post-test, and sour testing guidelines.
4.2 Well Testing details recommended practices for Well Testing operations, including:
equipment design and operation, worker requirements and qualifications, purging and
pressure testing, operational safety, and safety equipment.
4.3 Other Flowbacks addresses recommended practices for service rig operations
involving the flowback of fluids from the well. Matters addressed include: produced
fluids, venting, well control, equipment, procedures, and well site workers.
The practices described in the IRPs should be considered in conjunction with other
industry recommended practices, individual operator’s well testing and fluid handling
practices, and site specific considerations. It is recognized that other procedures and
practices as well as new technological developments may be equally effective in
promoting safety and efficiency.
4.0.10 INTRODUCTION
An integral part of the exploration and development of oil and gas resources is reservoir
evaluation. Evaluation methods with the greatest inherent environmental and safety
concerns are those which remove reservoir fluids by means of drill stem testing, well
testing or any other methods of flowback.
x October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
The avoidance of developing a combustible hydrocarbon gas/air mixture, and the safe
handling of highly volatile reservoir or stimulation fluids, and corrosive or toxic fluids are
of concern when evaluating a well.
The environmental, safety, and health risks associated with well testing and fluid
handling can be minimized by properly trained workers implementing prudent procedures
and using properly designed equipment.
October 2009 xi
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
Adequate: For the purposes of this IRP adequate is defined as the result of
conducting a hazard assessment and mitigating risks associated with the job to
be performed.
Adequate Lighting: The visibility must be such that the worker will be able to
exit the worksite to a secure area in the event of an emergency. Flashlights, rig
lights, and vehicle lights can be considered as emergency back-up lighting.
(Waiting on IRP 23 Lease Lighting Standards adequate lighting exists when the
site is illuminated sufficiently to ensure that the worker is able to perform routine
duties safely.)
References/Links
Bleed Off: Where pressure is present in the well, or piping systems, and
separating systems and needs depressurizing is required before work can
commence.
Closed System: A closed system refers to a handling system in which the odours
or emissions from the wellbore effluent are either flared or vented to atmosphere
through an H2S scrubber, in a controlled manner.
Coiled Tubing Unit Operations: Coiled tubing units (CTU) are commonly used
in other flowbacks to recover wellbore effluent. Nitrogen, carbon dioxide or air is
used to move and lift proppant, produced sand or stimulation fluids such as acid,
chemicals or hydraulic fracture treatment fluids from the wellbore. Coiled tubing
unit operations may also be undertaken to evaluate well production capability.
Employer: Means a person, firm, association or body that has, in connection with
the operation of a place of employment, one or more workers in the service of
the person, firm, association or body.
Flowback: Where pressure on a well is bled off and the well continues to flow,
and is allowed to flow to establish a rate of gas and fluid from the well.
NOTE: Reid Vapour Pressure is determined in a laboratory test. API gravity can
be readily measured in the field. C1-C7 content can also be indicative of
a fluid’s flammability. Flammability increases with increasing C1-C7
content. Fluid analyses, if available should be reviewed. Fluid and
ambient temperatures should be considered.
Inline Test: An inline test is closed when well effluents measured at the test
separator are diverted to the pipeline in some occasions fluids are produced to
storage.
Mud Can: A device used to contain fluids and direct them away from the drill
pipe when breaking connections.
Non - Certified Pressurized Vessel: A vessel that does not require certification
for use in pressure applications. The vessel must have some form of pressure
relief valve (PSV). If the tank is to be used as the primary vessel, the tank must
have been constructed under a quality control program. Construction, design, and
material specification data must be available when requested by the well owner.
Government departments may also request this data.
Example: A vessel designed to operate below 103.4 kPa (15 psi) working
pressure does not require provincial certification from local jurisdictions
but is required to be constructed under a registered quality control
program in this IRP.
The Occupational Exposure Limit (OEL of H2S is, eight hour OEL: 10 ppm)
In most cases when well testing, workers are in open-air environments and work
shifts longer than eight hours. Therefore planning consideration must review
situations when workers are exposed to short-term levels of H2S greater than
10ppm and longer-term levels less than 10ppm. The ceiling limits vary through
the various regulatory authorities. The two most common ceiling limits are 10
ppm and 15ppm.
Refer to your local and federal Occupational Exposure Limits for Chemical
Substances for more information on exposure limits to other chemicals.
References/Links
Open System: An open system refers to a handling system, such as a rig tank,
in which any gas vapours produced from fluids are vented to atmosphere in an
uncontrolled manner. This type of system requires constant monitoring to ensure
transient vapours/gas are maintained below 20% of LEL and 10 ppm H2S.
October 2009 xv
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
Pressurized Truck Tank: A pressurized truck tank must comply with all the CSA
B620 requirements as determined by CSA B621. If the maximum allowable
working pressure (MAWP) is greater than 101.3 kPa (15 psi) then ABSA/ASME
certification is also required. The MAWP is specified on the nameplate of most
oilfield production equipment such as all transport and pressure vessel
equipment.
Purge: Where a vessel, container or piping system is evacuated of its gas and/or
fluid contents and replaced with another gas and/or fluid. The general purpose of
purging is to remove explosive and/or flammable fluids and gases from a closed
piping system prior to opening the system to atmosphere or prior to entry of the
system by workers. The practice of purging usually entails replacing the
explosive/flammable contents with a product that is non-explosive/flammable or
to create an atmosphere with an acceptable Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) and
Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) for workers. Purging is also used to aid the removal
hazardous gases and fluids from vessels and piping systems prior to shipment of
equipment or transportation of fluids.
Qualified Well Testing Person: An individual who has had a minimum of three
months previous experience with a service company or well owner and
understands the concept of gas and liquid separation using pressure equipment
and flaring. Without this prior experience, the individual is considered “in
training”. The individual must be able to provide documented evidence, when
requested, of this experience. The individual must have all certifications required
by provincial regulatory agencies and/or listed in this IRP. Section 4.2.9 of this
IRP identifies the qualifications required for a well testing worker to handle
various levels of responsibility.
environment. Also used for emergency situations to aid in the rescue of injured
personnel.
Swivel Joint (Chiksan): A series of short steel pipe sections that are joined by
swivel couplings. The unit functions as a flexible flow line that provides a flow
path between the control head and the floor manifold.
Test Line: A flow line from the drill stem tester's floor manifold to move fluid or
gas to flare, test separator or storage.
Stabbing Valve: A full opening safety valve that can be installed to the top of
any joint of pipe being pulled out of or inserted into the well to prevent flow up
the pipe and out to atmosphere.
Well Killing Operations: Well killing operations are operations in which well
effluent is circulated from the wellbore using a fluid of sufficient density to
prevent further influx of reservoir fluids. The process is continued until the well is
incapable of flow.
References/Links
Underbalanced Drilling: Entails allowing a well to flow oil, gas, and formation
fluids to surface as it is being drilled as opposed to conventional or overbalanced
drilling where one of the prime considerations is in preventing hydrocarbons from
flowing during the drilling process.
References/Links
Alberta Energy and Utilities Board Interim Directive ID94-3 and Directive 36,
Section 10, 20, 23, 24
IRP The wellsite owner is responsible for all activities on a lease. The safety
of on-site workers and environmental protection take precedence over
well testing data requirements. Owners shall maintain general health
and safety at the well site by coordinating all activities and ensuring
proper equipment, materials, and workers are provided to accomplish
the program and to satisfy all applicable regulatory requirements.
IRP The well site owner shall ensure the following breathing equipment is
provided as a minimum:
• When well testing wells where the H2S concentration is greater than 100
ppm, the owner must provide supplied air breathing apparatus (SABA’s)
in addition to the self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). As a
minimum this package must contain an adequate air supply system
complete with air cylinders, manifold, work lines and egress packs
(SABA’s) and a minimum of two back packs (SCBA’s).
IRP The owner shall ensure a gas detection meter is available to the site
workers and that they are properly trained in the use and operation of
the meter.
IRP The owner’s representative shall have a trained and competent person
onsite in the operation of an LEL meter. The owner’s representative
shall ensure availability of an LEL meter on all sites. (Reference IRP 7
Standards for Wellsite Supervision of Drilling, Completions and
Workovers, Alberta ERCB BM 033, CAPP Flammable Environments
Guidelines and IRP 18 Upstream Petroleum Fire and Explosion Hazard
Management)
xx October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP The owner shall or instruct the service contracting company to:
References/Links
• Emergency contacts
• Test objectives
IRP The prime contractor shall ensure that their representative is able to
provide competent and effective supervision of the operations being
carried out. The owner’s representative shall have the following:
• WHMIS training
IRP The drilling service company shall ensure that all required rig workers
are available during operation and that the workers are physically
capable and have been properly trained to carry out their designated
responsibilities. The drilling service company shall ensure that the
equipment and facilities it is contracted to supply are available during
operation and it is designed for the parameters of the project. Pressure
test certification, material inspections, and sour service specifications
shall be made available when requested.
IRP The drill stem testing company shall ensure that the workers it provides
are available during the drill stem test, the workers are physically
capable, and have been properly trained to carry out their designated
responsibilities during the drill stem test at the worksite. The drill stem
testing company shall ensure that the equipment and facilities it is
contracted to supply are available during the drill stem test, are in good
working order and is designed for the parameters of the project.
Pressure test certification, material inspections, and sour service
specifications shall be made available when requested.
IRP The safety service company shall ensure that the workers it provides are
available during operations, the workers are physically capable, and
have been properly trained to carry out their designated responsibilities.
The safety service company shall ensure that the equipment it is
contracted to supply is available during the operation, is in good working
order, and is designed for the parameters of the project. The safety
service company must ensure proper equipment for respiratory
protection, H2S gas detection, breathing-air supply, determining
The safety service company must provide training of all workers on the
worksite in the specific use of this equipment as required.
IRP The well testing company shall ensure their employees are physically
capable to carry out their designated responsibilities during the
operation. Well testing personnel must carry certificates of training with
them. The well testing company shall ensure the equipment and
facilities it is contracted to supply are designed and suited for the
application. Pressure test certification, material inspections, and sour
service specifications shall be made available when requested.
IRP Fluid hauling companies shall ensure the workers it provides are
available during the operations, the workers are physically capable to
carry out their designated responsibilities, and the workers carry
certificates of training with them. The fluid hauling company shall
ensure that the equipment and facilities it is contracted to supply are
available during the operation, are in good working order, and are
designed for the parameters of the project. Pressure test certification,
material inspections, and sour service specifications shall be made
available when requested.
IRP Sweet and Sour designations are used by industry and legislative bodies
as a reference for administrative purposes. For technical purposes
specific concentrations of hydrogen sulphide will dictate appropriate
equipment requirements to conduct a task safely, maintaining the
health and safety of the worker while ensuring the integrity of the
equipment. The well designations of this IRP are centred on hydrogen
sulphide (H2S) content, which through inhalation, is the most frequently
encountered hazardous substance by well testing workers. There may
be other substances as onerous for maintaining worker safety and must
be considered when planning work programs. Provincial Occupational
Health and Safety Acts define the exposure limits for numerous
substances. Those documents should be referred to when substances
other than hydrogen sulphide (H2S) are known to be present at the well
site. The well designations in this IRP are designed for worker safety
when working in hydrogen sulphide (H2S) environments.Sweet Well
References/Links
ASME B31.3
References/Links
ASME B31.3
• They generally include all the elements of a sour well plus an amplified
concern for residents in close proximity to the well site along with
environmental issues.
• H2S affects the integrity of metals not designed for use in H2S
environments.
• Other elements such as CO2 also have corrosive affects on metals. The
requirement for special metallurgy in equipment is not related to a sour
designation of a well.
References/Links
IRP The owner’s site representative must be trained and competent in the
use of gas detection meters. The site representative must possess or
make available at the wellsite, a gas detection meter capable of
measuring LEL.
IRP Where the owner does not have a site representative, the owner shall
ensure a gas detection meter is available to the site workers.
IRP One person per shift must be trained and competent in the use of gas
detection meters where gas vapours will be vented to atmosphere or
there is a potential of gas vapours to be released to the atmosphere. All
users must be properly trained and competent.
IRP No worker shall enter the 50 metre safety zone around an open tank
system where gas vapours have been vented to atmosphere until
cleared to do so by the owner’s site representative or the worker who is
responsible for monitoring the area with a gas detection meter.
NOTE: Refer to Section 4.3 Other Flowbacks, for more detail on the
requirement of gas detection and flowing wells to open tank systems.
Flammable limits for some common flammable gases and vapours are in listed
below.
A methane/air mixture must contain more than 5% methane by volume for the
mixture to burn. If the mixture contains more than 15% methane by volume, it is
considered to be too rich and will not burn. The concentration must be within the
flammable range to ignite or sustain a fire.
Oxygen
For safe entry, oxygen levels must be between 19.5% and 23.0%.
Explosions occur when a flammable mixture of gas comes into contact with a heat
source that exceeds the ignition temperature of the gas mixture. Not all
concentrations of flammable gases will explode. The Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)
determines the minimum concentration of the flammable gas in air that will burn.
Concentrations below the LEL and above the Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) will not
burn. Unfortunately, gas/air mixtures are seldom uniform so it is likely that if any
amount of combustible gas is detected then at some point in the system or
container, the concentration may be explosive. Flammable liquids normally have a
low flash point. This refers to the temperature at which the liquid releases vapours
at a rate sufficient to form an explosive mixture with air. Liquids with flash points
below ambient temperature will immediately release dangerous concentrations of
gas. Liquid leaks can be as hazardous as gas leaks.
Vapour Density
Assuming that air currents are negligible, it can be said that gases and vapours
with densities less than 1.0, such as methane, will tend to rise from the point of
escape and subsequently disperse into the atmosphere or accumulate in spaces
under roof structures of buildings.
Heavier-than-air gases such as propane and H2S tend to fall from the point of
escape, perhaps to floor level where some mixing with air occurs thus creating
pockets of mixtures, some explosive, others not. If there are sub-floor spaces
such as drain channels, pipe and cableways, and storage pits, then these heavier
than air gases tend to accumulate there. A suitable source of ignition in such
areas will surely result in explosion and fire. Refer to Flammable limits for some
common flammable gases and vapours table above.
Ignition Temperature
Pyrophoric Iron Sulphides are created when rust and H2S combine in an oxygen
free environment
They are created in oxygen free environments such as piping systems, reservoirs,
wellbore, and vessels where H2S has been present without oxygen.
Essentially rust (or Iron Oxide) is converted in Iron Sulphide, when these Iron
Sulphides are exposed to oxygen; an oxidation process begins that eventually
turns the iron sulphides back into iron oxide form.
This process creates an enormous amount of heat causing (in some cases) the
iron particles to illuminate and possibly glow. This is when nearby fuel sources
such as propane from a purge or other hydrocarbons can be ignited.
There is no set H2S content at which Pyrophoric Iron Sulphides will form or be
present, however there are some heavily researched indicators to the presence of
Iron Sulphides. They include
• Scaling
• Asphaltines
• Sludge
• Rust
• Solids
The age of a sour well, and long periods of time with equipment on sour
operations such as multizone sour completions can also be factors in determining
whether or not Iron Sulphides may be present
With an auto ignition temperature below that of room temperature, they pose a
definite hazard.
Location of the gas sensor is very important. In general, lighter than air gases
requires the sensor to be positioned near the ceiling and heavier than air gases
require sensors positioned at low levels or in pits or trenches. Some things to
consider include:
Some gas detectors have two scales; the 100% scale measuring the % of a
flammable gas in a mixture, and the 4% scale for measuring the % of the LEL
Assume that the meter has been designed to measure hydrogen in a mixture. The
LEL of hydrogen is 4%. If a reading taken on the 100% scale indicates 10%, then
the mixture is 10% hydrogen and is above the LEL of hydrogen. If a reading on
the 4% range indicates 10%, then the mixture contains 10% of the hydrogen
necessary to produce a flammable mixture. The mixture actually contains 4% x
0.1 = 0.4% hydrogen by volume.
The equipment operator must understand the difference between measuring the
% LEL and the % of flammable gas.
Caution:
• When testing gas for LEL remember that the H2S concentration is
important relative to the safety of the worker conducting the LEL test.
• These devices must not be used for continuous monitoring or for testing
H2S concentration in the gas
• Testing the atmospheres for the safety of workers requires that the gas
detection equipment be in perfect condition, properly calibrated, and will
be operated by trained and competent people.
NOTE: Refer to CAPP Flammable Environments Guideline and IRP 18 - Fire and
Explosion Hazard Management
IRP Wind direction devices must be strategically located around the lease.
NOTE: Monitoring for explosive mixtures with a suitable device is the only
practical method of determining safe operating conditions. Judging
conditions based on sight, smell, wind directions, etc., may be very
deceiving in that explosive mixture levels can change rapidly during a
flow back situation. Portable monitoring devices are available that give
direct readout of combustible gas explosive limits. A fixed sensor could
be located in an enclosed area such as rig pump house, separator
building etc.
NOTE: As with any safety device, the degree of dependability of a gas detector
is directly proportional to the care it receives. All explosive mixture
monitors require routine maintenance on a regular basis, which includes
cleaning the device and its sampling system, checking voltage supply to
the unit and performing regular calibrations. Some of this servicing may
require the services of a qualified technician.
infinitesimal quantity of liquid phase in equilibrium. Dew point pressure is the fluid
pressure in a system at its dew point.)
Primary conditions:
• Gas must be at or below its water dew point with free water present
• Low temperature
• High pressure
Secondary conditions:
• High velocities
• Pressure pulsations
For the purpose of well testing it is convenient to divide hydrate formation into
two categories:
If ambient temperature is low enough, ice build up may occur on the inside of pipe
when left idle, after flowing, due to condensation residue left on the inside walls of
piping systems. This is not a hydrate although it could lead to the formation of a
hydrate by the introduction of a hydrate crystal to the flow stream.
• Hydrate charts/tables must be available on the well site. The well test
supervisor must be trained and competent on the use of these charts
and tables.
IRP During the pressure testing procedure and start up, all non-essential
workers must vacate the surrounding area of the testing equipment,
flow lines, and wellhead.
Caution: Hydrates travelling through pipes have a high potential for plugging,
overpressuring, or rupturing lines.
NOTE: Sour gas more readily forms a hydrate than sweet gas
• Scope of work
• Procedures to be followed
IRP All applicable federal and provincial regulations must be adhered to,
such as TDG, WHMIS and Occupational Health and Safety, and WCB.
• Outer or covering apparel must be fire retardant where the potential for
fires exists
• Minimum safe standards for hard hats, footwear, eye wear, and ear
protection should be determined by the well testing company. The
following standards are appropriate:
• The safety standby method must be employed for all hazardous work
• On sour well sites where the H2S concentration is greater than 10 ppm,
the owner must provide SABA’s in addition to SCBA.
• Heated Unit and flare stack or line heater, pressure tank and flare stack:
Minimum 3 Class ABC, 9 kg
• Safety stairs (or equivalent devices that would allow a rescue at the top
of a tank other than by ladder access) are required whenever breathing
apparatus is required at the top of a tank
• An ESD valve must be installed on wells with more than 1379 kPa
pressure and an H2S content greater than 1% or one tone of sulphur per
day. Additional considerations for use of an ESD valve are wells that:
NOTE: These points are by no means all of the general safety standards that
should be followed. The points are listed as having special relevance to
well testing. Provided that it does not contradict the well owners policy,
well testing companies may use a fixed period to orientate and train
newer employees while on the job, provided that such persons are
adequately protected by other certified workers on location.
NOTE: These points are minimum standards and contractors should determine
whether the well owner has additional standards.
IRP A pre-job safety meeting must be held involving all workers who will be
on location during operations. The meeting should be recorded and the
agenda should include the following:
• Hazard Assessment
It is recognized that it is not always practical to have an inert purge medium for
all operations. Flammable purge mediums, such as propane, are successfully used
throughout the industry as long as workers follow special precautions and
procedures. An inert medium also presents its own hazard; lack of oxygen and
non-breathable. The following is meant to assist the worker in assessing the
hazards:
IRP Prior to opening a closed tank system to check its contents, a hazard
assessment must be conducted by the systems owner representative on
shift. The assessment must be documented and signed by both the
systems owner representative and, if present, the well owner
representative.
IRP The individual who completes the confined space entry permit must
have Confined Space Entry Training.
xl October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
References/Links
Consideration should be given to the use of purge mediums such as N2, CO2, and
water flood. The use of combination flush/vacuum pump trucks will help to clean
out the system as much as possible prior to opening for inspection.
Well Test Supervisors must confirm with the operator the presence of a flare
permit or ensure that proper notification has been done, if required.
• H2S / SO2 hazards. Owners are required to define flare stack diameters
and height to prevent H2S emissions and reduce SO2 fallout, within
regulatory requirements. Flare Permits are required for Critical Sour
Wells, and when H2S content exceeds 50 mole / kilomole (5%). From 10
to 50 moles / kilomole (1 - 5%), a minimum flare stack height of 12
metres is required
• Maximum velocity of the gas from the flare stack on sweet gas and sour
wells less than 1% H2S must not exceed 331.4 metres per second.
• Velocity of the gas from the flare stack on sour gas greater than 1% H2S
should not exceed 95.4 metres per second or be less tan 10.6 metres
per second.
• Flame arrestors within the flare line are not required under a manned
operation while flowing and other forms of flashback control are
acceptable. See ERCB Directive 060: Upstream Petroleum Industry
Flaring, Incinerating, and Venting, Section 7.7
IRP Where H2S scrubbers are used, the scrubber must be sized such that the
concentrations and volume of H2S vapour present are adequately
handled. The frequency of chemical change-out is dependent on the H2S
concentration and gas volume flowing through the scrubbing system.
Periodic checks as per suppliers’ recommendation of the vent gas and
chemical properties are required to ensure no H2S is released to
atmosphere.
• SulfatreatTM systems must have vent gas checked for the presence of
H2S
• A Hazard Assessment must be done for all flammable gases leaving the
scrubber
IRP Where fluid is produced, steps must be taken to ensure the safety of
site workers from vapours allowed to escape to atmosphere from the
fluid.
IRP The properties of any produced fluids or solids should be evaluated to:
• Toxic effects
• Radioactive material
• Corrosive effects
4.0.13.22.3. Oils
IRP The properties of the produced oils should be evaluated for the following
hazards:
4.0.13.22.4. Gas
IRP The properties of the produced gases should be evaluated for the
following hazards:
• Hydrate potential
• H2S content
4.0.13.22.5. Water
IRP The properties of the produced water should be evaluated for possible
gas entrainment and ignition potential.
NOTE: If it is necessary to locate tanks next to the lease road exit, for example
on small leases or remote locations, to comply with other spacing
requirements, ensure adequate transportation for workers is available in
the event of an emergency. This transportation should be off the lease
when no other means of egress are available.
4.0.13.23 Tanks
IRP Where gas vapours are vented to atmosphere from an open tank
system, the tank must be a minimum of 50 metres from the wellhead
(shallow wells, coalbed methane (CBM) 35 metres from wellhead)
IRP Flowback operations must be discontinued if liquid carry over from the
degasser vent line occurs, and an appropriately sized separator or
pressurized tank must be employed
NOTE: IRP 1 Critical Sour Drilling; 1.7 Mud Gas Separators, provides an
overview of degasser design factors including vent line sizing.
NOTE: See Section 4.3 Other Flowbacks for flowing to open top tanks.
IRP Atmospheric tanks are predominantly used for storage of fluids and are
not considered capable of containing pressure. Most atmospheric tanks
are designed with 7 kPa (16oz) hatches and the roof is typically
designed to shear at 14 kPa (2 psi).
IRP When producing sour fluids, atmospheric tanks must be equipped with a
suitable vapour gathering, flaring or scrubbing system to ensure that
H2S vapours are not released to atmosphere. The system may also
include a pressurized tank
IRP Fluid storage tanks require an external fluid level indicator that can be
used for level measurement.
IRP The tops/lids of atmospheric storage tanks are not designed to serve as
a work platform. Any maintenance/work required on top of these tanks
must be conducted while the tank is in a horizontal position.
IRP Pressurized tanks used for flowback or storage of fluids produced from a
sour well must be manufactured under a quality program to ensure
conformance with design specifications utilizing materials meeting the
requirements of NACE MR 01-75 LATEST EDITION.
IRP Owners must have regard for the volume of the various fluids to be
utilized and where possible, provide sufficient tank storage to provide
for a suitable retention time or provide for other measures such as
heating or agitation to allow for separation of entrained gas, prior to
transportation.
IRP When flow testing from a sour well (>10 ppm) during servicing, drilling
or testing operations, a closed system must be used to prevent the
escape of sour gas to the atmosphere. Flowback duration, proximity to,
and notification of area residents must be considered. H2S scrubbers
must be operated within the manufacturers operating parameters and
chemical used in that scrubbing system monitored and changed
accordingly.
IRP 2 Completing and Servicing Critical Sour Wells; 2.5 Fluids and Circulating
System, contains additional information regarding necessary fluid handling
equipment for critical sour wells. Section 2.10 Quality Programs for Pressure
Containing Equipment includes basic information regarding quality programs.
IRP The rig tank(s) must be 50 metres from the wellhead and any open
flame and it is only S.E. Alberta shallow gas wells where the rig tank can
be 35 meters from the well.
IRP Where gas vapours are anticipated, or the tank is rigged with a
venting/scrubbing system, atmospheric tank(s) must be 50 metres from
the wellhead and any open flame.
4.0.13.25.1. General
NOTE: Air entrainment explosions occur upstream of the flowline choke and
downstream of the flowline choke (usually in storage tanks). The fuel
source is the well product, or it can be the purge medium if propane or
natural gas is used to purge. Ignition sources are not always
identifiable, but possibilities include:
• Static electricity
• Air from dry run tubing (i.e., for under balanced perforating)
• Air pulled into production tanks through open or leaking hatches when a
vacuum condition exists. The vacuum can be caused by fluid withdrawal
and by excessive venturi action at flare stacks when tanks are vented to
flare.
NOTE: It is recognized that it is not always practical to displace tubing air prior
to operations such as under balanced perforating or drill stem testing.
NOTE: Owners and well testing companies must assess the planned procedure
when air exists in the well string.
• Production tanks must have hatch seals and pre-set pressure thief
hatches
• All system elements must be electrically bonded to each other, with the
wellhead or ground rods as ground or common
IRP The volume to be purged must be calculated prior to purging. For purge
mediums heavier than air, purging should be a minimum of 1.5 times
calculated volume, and purging should be from the bottom up. For
purge mediums lighter than air, purging should be a minimum of 2.5
times calculated volume, and purging should be from the top down.
IRP The well should be flowed slowly to the separator unit, then to the
flareline, then to downstream vessels/tanks. Downstream vessels/
tanks must be isolated and purged one at a time.
NOTE: Production tanks that will not be vented to flare do not require purging.
NOTE: The flow line would be purged from the wellhead to the separator unit, if
the vapour was introduced at the wellhead. It is also acceptable to use
the separator as a point of origin for the purge vapour. In that case,
the flow line would be purged back to the wellhead (with the line
disconnected at the wellhead).
l October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
• On sour wells, the well can initially be flowed through a choke to a by-
pass directly to a flare until the air is displaced from the tubing and the
flare is burning steadily. This will contain possible fires in open-ended
pipe. The well can then be shut-in or directed to pre-purged vessels
prior to liquids arriving at surface. An operator could also obtain
permission from the local authority for short term flow to an unlit flare
to displace air from the tubing. The flow should be sampled with an LEL
or gas detector to verify the mixture is out of the explosive limits
October 2009 li
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
APPENDIX I
APPENDIX II
P re s s u re Ra tin g Fo rm u la fo r S e a m le s s P ip e
The standard is ANSI/ASME B31.3, "Chemical Plant & Petroleum Refinery Piping".
P=2SEt / D-2Yt
Where:
S – is the basic allowable stress, in psi, for a given material, as defined in ANSI /
ASME B31.3 Table A-1,
NOTE: For the common piping materials A 53 Gr. B, A106 Gr. B, A 333 Gr. 6,
A 334 Gr. 6, and API 5L Gr. B, the allowable stress below 204 Celsius
(400 Fahrenheit) is 20,000 psi
E – is the basic quality factor for longitudinal welds, as defined in ANSI / ASME
B31.3 Table A – 1B,
NOTE: For seamless pipe, forgings and fittings E = 1.00, and for electric
resistance welded pipe, E = 0.850
H - is thread depth. For NPT threads, H = 0.07531 "up to 50.8 mm (2in) pipe ”,
and
D – is the outside diameter, in inches (see attached table for common pipe sizes,
thicknesses and diameters) ,
The attached tables do not include a corrosion allowance. In well testing, sudden
and violent erosion is certain to destroy well test pipe before corrosion. The values
for welded 4130 HRC in the following table have been rounded up to the nearest
50 psi. This table is for reference only.
October 2009 li
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
Normal drilling procedures, control formation pressures and fluids through the use
of a hydrostatic head. Drill stem testing brings these formation pressures and
fluids to the surface, thereby presenting a unique set of conditions since pressure
control is then maintained by mechanical systems. Safe work guidelines, such as
those set out in this IRP, minimize the probability of either the mechanical or
human systems failing during a test, as well as establishing minimum health and
operating standards. This IRP is intended to supplement existing standards and
regulations rather than replace them, and is directed mostly towards drill stem
tests that are to be run on onshore wells.
IRP Owners shall provide a plan for all drill stem tests. This plan shall
include at least: the zones to be tested, the depths of tests, the method
of testing, the type of equipment to be used, the duration of the test,
and a reference to an emergency response plan, where applicable. The
emergency response plan shall be discussed with all employers and
workers involved with the drill stem test.
IRP Operators shall provide litho logical and reservoir information on the
zones to be tested. This shall include potential H2S zones, possible well
problems, anticipated recovery, anticipated flow rates, H2S rates, and
anticipated pressures. This information shall be discussed with all
employers and workers involved with the drill stem test.
4.1.2.3 Qualifications
IRP Workers conducting drill stem testing operations shall have the
minimum qualifications required by legislation and the industry.
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IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
• Safety equipment
• Drill stem test tools including test head and floor manifold
The inspection shall ensure proper distances are used in placing the equipment on
the worksite.
IRP Swivel joints and flow lines upstream of the choke manifold shall be
subjected, prior to the drill stem test, to a pressure test. The lines shall
be visually inspected for leaks at both low pressures and high pressures.
The high pressure test shall be to the maximum anticipated surface
pressure. Lines downstream of the manifold should be secured to
restrict them from movement.
2 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP The worksite owner or designated representative shall ensure that all
workers involved with a drill stem test are properly trained in the
operation of drill stem testing equipment, safety equipment, and
personal safety equipment.
IRP Liquids recovered during drill stem tests should be reverse circulated
from the drill pipe. Prior to reversing out, drill pipe may be pulled from
the hole until fluids are encountered at surface. Test plugs should be
utilized if liquid recovery is expected. When using test plugs, they
should be used from the very first stand pulled, then continuously
throughout trip. If reverse circulation is not possible, the trip may be
continued using test plugs and mud can with extreme caution.
IRP When testing sour wells a certified pressurized tank and flare stack
should be used to ensure efficient separation and burn of all gases. A
flare permit from the local authority may be required.
Cautions:
• See IRP 4.2 Well Testing and IRP 4.3 Other Flowbacks for other
information.
• Extra care must be taken once the pump-out-sub has reached the rig
floor since hydrocarbons may be present below the pump-out-sub.
October 2009 3
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP Drill stem tests may be conducted during darkness until liquid recovery
is encountered, if IRP 4 is followed. Special emphasis will be placed on
lighting requirements referenced to in Abbreviations and Definitions At
this point the recovery must be reverse circulated. If reverse circulation
is not possible, pulling drill pipe shall not be continued until daylight
NOTE: Extra care must be taken once the pump-out-sub has reached the rig
floor since hydrocarbons may be present below the pump-out sub.
IRP The fluid level in the annulus shall be monitored at all times. Should the
packer seat fail and the level of fluid in the annulus drop, a method for
filling the hole shall be in place at all times.
NOTE: A drop in the fluid level would reduce hydrostatic pressure and could
allow zones above the packers to kick. Such a loss could be caused by a
packer seat failure or fluid loss to an upper formation.
IRP All workers shall be fully aware of their responsibilities during the test
including what to do in an emergency.
IRP Clear all non-essential workers from the rig floor during the drill stem
test.
IRP A separate drill stem test line shall be rigged up to the floor manifold
and run to the flare pit or other area to dispose of or to store the fluid.
The flare line must be adequately secured and the igniter lit prior to the
4 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
start of the test, if applicable. Do not use the BOP blow down line as
the test line. When testing sour wells, a certified pressurized tank and
flare stack should be used to ensure efficient separation and to burn of
all gases.
IRP The line of flow shall be directed through a floor manifold to allow for
control and measurement of flow. The manifold shall have a pressure
rating which exceeds that of the maximum anticipated surface pressure
to be encountered. A floor manifold may also be referred to as a choke
manifold on the rig floor. The floor manifold must be secured so as to
restrict it from movement in the event of a break in the piping system.
IRP All swivel joints and flexible pipe shall be secured with a safety cable.
The integrity of flexible piping should be ensured through pressure
testing.
IRP A pipe tally shall be taken while pulling out of the hole for the drill stem
test and a tally shall be taken while running the test to depth. This tally
shall be reviewed and checked by the well site owner before starting the
test.
October 2009 5
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP After completion of the drill stem test, flow checks should be done prior
to starting the test string out of the hole and should be done at
appropriate intervals while pulling out of the hole. A flow check is when
the pulling of pipe is stopped and a waiting period is used to see if there
is any inflow into the annulus. Ensure the test string is pulled slowly to
avoid a swabbing effect. Follow rigorous hole filling procedures.
Appropriate intervals for flow checks are:
IRP The safety of the worker and equipment takes precedence over any test
information to be collected. Prior to starting a sour drill stem test, it is
essential that all workers on the lease understand the dangers of H2S.
They should be fully informed of and trained in appropriate safety
procedures, including the use of safety equipment and breathing
apparatus.
Caution:
• It is explosive when mixed with air in the range of 4.0% to 45%, and it
is soluble in fluids.
6 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP A drill stem test that may encounter H2S shall have sour service surface
equipment meeting the requirements of NACE MR 01-75 latest edition,
Sulphide Stress Cracking Resistant Metallic Materials for Oilfield
Equipment. A certified pressurized tank and flare stack for efficient
separation and handling of sour gas or fluids must be used.
• Other factors
IRP Inhibit water based drilling fluids by maintaining a pH above 10. Inhibit
oil based muds with the addition of commercially available scavengers.
October 2009 7
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP Use a filming amine inhibitor to protect the interior of the test string
when running a sour drill stem test. If no water cushion is used, the
inhibitor should be dumped down the test string. If a water cushion is
used, mix the inhibitor with the cushion, and also put inhibitor on top of
the cushion. Both water soluble and oil soluble inhibitors are available
from safety service companies.
IRP Drill stem tests that produce sour fluids to surface shall be shut-in
immediately unless equipment used in the hole and at surface is
adequate for the conditions.
NOTE: A closed chamber drill stem test will prevent fluid flow at surface during
a sour test. IRP 4.2 Well Testing, provides additional recommendations
about handling sour fluids using surface well testing equipment.
IRP All sour gas shall be flared. Install a constant pilot light or ignition
device in the flare stack to ensure combustion of all gas sent to the flare
stack. Refer to Provincial Regulations regarding flaring.
IRP When pulling drill stem test tools out of the hole, use a mixture of aqua-
ammonia and water to neutralize any H2S in vapour phase. Use caution
when putting the mixture down the test string. A small amount of fluid
may unload due to displacement from the ammonia. Ammonia is
available from safety service companies.
8 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
APPENDIX III
Well Activity
Adeq Inadeq
A. SIGNS
B. PERSONAL SAFETY
October 2009 9
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
13 Certificates
C. GENERAL
10 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
COMMENTS / EXPLANATIONS
NOTE:
• For rig safety, refer to drilling rig inspection checklist in IRP 2.0 Completing
and Servicing Critical Sour Wells
October 2009 11
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
4.2.1.1 General
4.2.1.2 Standard
API 6A, Specification for Wellhead and Christmas Tree Equipment or the relevant
parts of the ASME/ANSI Series:
or
or
or
October 2009 13
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
• Provincial/federal regulations
IRP All wellhead components must have a working pressure rating that is
equal to or greater than the maximum bottomhole pressure in the
wellbore
NOTE: In Alberta, ERCB Regulation 7.050 calls for wellhead components not to
be less than the bottom hole pressure of the producing formation for
wells with greater than 50 moles / kmol H2S (5%).
IRP Where practical, all well tests must be performed using wellheads with a
master valve. Master valves should be of the full bore, round opening
type. Wells where the H2S content of the wellbore effluent is 50
moles/kilomole (5%) or greater require two master valves. Master
valves for critical sour wells must be API 6A flanged.
NOTE: Master valves are used to allow the servicing of the wing valve and to
allow the connection of treatment lines, lubricators and other temporary
connections. Master valves are used to isolate other components, and
should not be used to initiate or shut off flow.
NOTE: On dual master valved wellheads the upper master valve must be used
as the working valve for operations
14 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP All wells must be provided with a flow tee or cross above the master
valve, to connect wing valves to the master valve(s). Sour and critical
sour wells must be provided with an API 6A flanged flow tee. A top
connector should be considered where applicable.
IRP A wing valve must be attached to the flow or cross tee. Sour and
critical sour wells must have API 6A flanged wing valves.
NOTE: The wing valve is used to initiate or shut off flow. The flow sequence is
always: open the lower master valve (if applicable), then the upper
master valve, then the wing valve. The shut off sequence is the
reverse.
IRP All primary and secondary seals in the wellhead must be hydrostatically
tested upon installation. All wellhead components should be pressure
tested to a pressure that is at least equal to the bottomhole pressure of
the producing zone or 1.3 x SITHP. Check with the wellhead
manufacturer for maximum test values between the primary and
secondary seals (limited to the collapse value of the casing.)
October 2009 15
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
4.2.2.1 Capacities
4.2.2.1.1. General
IRP Equipment flow capacities should be sized for the flow rates of the
program, and need not be sized for the maximum capacity of the well.
Flow capacities may be derived from detailed calculations, nomographs,
and experience.
IRP Pop or Pressure safety valves (PSV) and burst heads must be piped to a
system to take discharged product away from the vessel and workers in
the immediate area.
IRP On critical sour wells, PSV must be piped with a separate line to a flare
stack that has a separate line for that PSV on the flare stack. At no point
can the line pipe from the PSV be smaller than the outlet on the PSV.
IRP Piping downstream of the PSV must comply with ASME Section VIII Div.
I.
IRP Unrestricted access to the wellhead wing valve and master valve must
be ensured.
16 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
NOTE: Conventional pressure safety valves are designed for block- in pressure
protection and to operate without allowing the relieving pressure to rise
greater than 10% over the set pressure of the PSV. ASME Section VIII
Division 1 requirements are that the safety valve cannot be set greater
than the vessel’s Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP) and
must have adequate capacity to ensure that the maximum rise of
pressure after the valve opens is limited to 10% of the MAWP.
Backpressure on a safety valve is not a function of its operation to
relieve pressure but is a function of any external produced pressures on
the outlet side of the safety valve. If this backpressure is constant then
the conventional safety valve can be cold set at a lower pressure, set to
compensate for the backpressure. If the backpressure is variable, a pilot
or balanced bellows pressure safety valve is required to maintain
constant pop pressure.
IRP Heat requirements address the hazards that can be encountered during
flowbacks such as (but not limited to);should consider hydrate
inhibition, CO2 content, inhibition of solid deposition, and the reduction
of solution gas and foam at the separation and liquid storage stage, and
ambient temperatures.
IRP The upstream system and the liquid storage stage must be designed to
reduce, eliminate or control the escape of vapours to the environment.
October 2009 17
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
NOTE: Refer to the Definitions section in this IRP for clarification on certified
versus non-certified vessels.
IRP Pressure vessels are defined by the Provincial Regulatory Agency. All
pressure vessels must be designed and registered to their requirements.
All certified vessels must have a CRN registered for the province where
the vessel is used. Pressure vessels or pressurized tanks used for flow
back or storage of fluids produced from a sour well must be
manufactured under a quality program to ensure conformance with
design specifications utilizing materials meeting the requirements of
NACE MR 01-750175/ISO 15156-1 LATEST EDITION.
IRP ASME B31.3 Pressure Piping should be used as the design pressure
standard for pressure piping. Appendix II summarizes the maximum
allowable working pressure calculation and nominal dimensions of
common carbon and low alloy steels. Section 4.2.5 Equipment
Inspections must be considered for the inspection of all pressure
retaining equipment. Also see Section 4.2.2.2.7 Pipe and Fitting
Threading
18 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP All wells to be flowed having a surface pressure greater than 1379kPa
and a H2S content greater than 1% requires an ESD.
4.2.2.2.3. Flanges
IRP ASME flanges have the pressure rating defined in ASME B16.5 Pipe
Flanges and Flanged Fittings. Also refer to CSA Z245.12. Unless higher
temperatures are encountered, the nominal pressure rating is that at 38
degrees C (100 degrees F). API flanges have the pressure rating
stamped on the flange. API 6H fitting use the same class designation as
ANSI B16.5 however the pressure / temperature ratings are different.
IRP Other connections that are not defined by standards such as ASME, API,
CSA, etc. may be acceptable (e.g., hammer unions, Unibolt connections,
etc.) provided that:
IRP Non-certified flexible pressure piping (e.g., swivel joints, pressure hose,
etc.) should not be used where well effluent internal pressure could
exceed 103.4 kPa (15 Psig) in well testing operations.
IRP Certified flexible pressure piping can be used where well effluent internal
pressure could exceed 103.4 kPa (15 Psig) but not the maximum
October 2009 19
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP Where lines of 33 mm O.D. (1" nominal) or less are normally filled with
a stable fluid (e.g., pressure gauge lines filled with methanol), flexible
lines are acceptable as long as they are rated for that fluid and do not
exceed the maximum working pressure of that line.
IRP All flexible piping must be secure at the ends in the event of connection
failure to prevent whipping of the line.
IRP Consideration should be given to the use of steel lines where flexible
piping could be subject to excessive heat such as flare stacks,
incinerators, and vapourizers. A hazard assessment must be conducted
when using flexible piping near heat producing devices.
NOTE: Refer to Section 4.3.6.4 Through Tubing Clean Outs With Snubbing
Units when 50.8 mm (2”) hose is acceptable for pressures above 103.4
kPa (15 Psig)
IRP Pipe and fitting welding should be to the meet requirements of ASME
Section IX. Post-weld stress relieving is required for H2S service systems
(as defined in Section 4.2.3.1.2 Welding of Carbon and Low Alloy Steels)
unless special hardness control procedures as defined in NACE MR 01-75
0175/ISO 15156-1 LATEST EDITION are observed. Radiography to
ASME B31.3 is recommended.
IRP Line pipe threading should not be used above 17.24 MPa (2500 Psig),
for pipe sizes above 33 mm (1" nominal).
At a maximum, the line pipe threading ratings of API 6A shall apply, provided that
the thread depth ratings of Table 2 Pressure Rating of Seamless Pipe in Appendix
II are not exceeded.
20 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
Refer to the formula for pressure rating seamless pipe on Appendix II, Pressure
Rating Formula for Seamless Pipe
4.2.3.1.1. General
NOTE: Owners and service companies should note that this definition of partial
pressure is not related to definitions of sour by any provincial regulatory
body and that partial pressure introduces an additional planning
consideration.
IRP Post weld stress relieving is mandatory for low alloy steel and
mandatory for carbon steels unless a weld procedure qualification
ensures HRC 22 maximum throughout the weld. Radiography to ASME
B31.3 is recommended where applicable.
4.2.3.1.3. Exceptions-
IRP Production lines to non-certified storage tanks, flare lines and vent lines
may be exempted from complete conformance to NACE MR 01-
750175/ISO15156-1 LATEST EDITION if:
October 2009 21
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
• The lines will not normally be exposed to pressures in excess of 448 kPa
(65 psia), and the lines have an adequate pressure rating for short term
abnormal service.
4.2.3.2 Elastomers
NOTE: The internal trims of some components exposed to H2S have a much
higher possibility of compromising safety and control when they are
subject to erosive well products. These components include level control
valves, meters, and block / bypass valves. Contractors should carefully
consider the practical details of the equipment service.
22 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
4.2.4.1 General
NOTE: Per Section 4.0.13.5 Well Testing Company Responsibilities, it is the well
testing company’s responsibility to meet pressure ratings and H2S
requirements when the owner has given the proper information;
therefore, the well testing company warrants material conformance to
the owner. IRP’s 4.2.2 through 4.2.5 are minimum standards for
material identification. More rigid identification systems are appropriate,
and are sometimes specified by the owner.
IRP The manufacturer's tag must be affixed to the pressure vessel. The
Manufacturer's Data Report shall be on file along with the latest
Provincial Regulatory Agency inspection certificate and latest pressure
safety valve record.
IRP Forgings and fittings should be identifiable by API, ANSI, CSA, and
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) markings. Pipe should be
identifiable by fabrication standards, drawings, or purchase orders. Pipe
marking by low stress dies is discretionary.
IRP Such components should be identifiable through API, ANSI, CSA, and
OEM markings, or catalogues of OEM products if such catalogues
uniquely identify and are traceable to the component.
October 2009 23
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP All 50.8 mm (2”) unions of the following design must be identifiable
through a unique colour coded as listed below.
RAL
Union Figure Number
Colour Colour
or Name
Code
4.2.5.1 General
24 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
Exceptional erosion can be caused by any well debris, and is common with frac
sand returns. Programs in high erosive situations should be modified to include
elements of the following:
October 2009 25
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
to obtain permission from the local authority for changes. Some spacing
requirements are listed below.
NOTE: The water tank solution gas hazard should be evaluated before reducing
the distances. The appendices are intended to specify minimum spacing
and not equipment layout or piping details. IRP 4.3 Other Flowbacks
must be referenced when well testing is combined with other flow back
operations.
When in use with a vaporizer the equipment placement distance must meet the
minimum distance requirement of the local authority for open flame equipment
from the wellhead. Consideration must be given to all other potential sources of
vapour when selecting a site to position the vaporizer to prevent a fire or
explosion.
• Position of supply and filling lines to be outside of high traffic areas( i.e.,
foot and vehicular)
• Tarping propane vessels for use with external heat sources to vapourize
liquid propane during cold weather operations are only allowed with
equipment that has been manufactured and certified for that
application. It must also meet all equipment spacing requirements.
26 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP Where two or more certified pressurized tanks are used as either a
primary flow vessel or for storage of fluids, the tanks must be a
minimum of 25 metres from the wellhead and can be placed side-by-
side.
IRP The following diagrams are from the Code for Electrical Installations at
Oil and Gas Facilities published by The Safety Code Council of Alberta.
October 2009 27
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
28 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
• Ensure gas flaring lines and fluid production lines are adequately
secured
IRP Following the rig in of test equipment and associated flowlines, pressure
testing of the lines and equipment using a gaseous medium must be
conducted in daylight hours only. If the integrity of the piping system
has been broken at anytime after the initial pressure test, subsequent
pressure tests using a gaseous medium must be done in daylight hours
only.
NOTE: See Section 4.2.8 Operational Safety, for night time start up
procedures.
October 2009 29
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP On wells defined as critical sour, the flow line from the wellhead to the
choke must be hydraulically pressure tested to the maximum expected
Shut in Tubing Head Pressure (SITHP).
IRP Open ended piping (e.g., flare lines, vent lines) and production tanks
should not be isolated by valves and pressured tested. Closed valves
should not be in the system. Instead, leak tests of open ended piping
and production tanks must be part of initial operational checks after
start up. Visual inspection of connections is an alternative.
• The hazard assessment deems the start up safe for the worker
• All non-essential workers are vacated from the immediate area of the
testing equipment, flowlines and wellhead. These workers shall not
return to the area until cleared to do so by the owner’s wellsite
30 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
• The use of an ESD valve has been considered. In Alberta, all wells with
a pressure greater than 1379 kPa and an H2S content greater than 1%
require an ESD valve on the wellhead
• With wing valve closed, open the master valve and record pressures
• Close the choke (if applicable) and open the wing valve to the choke.
Perform a detailed leak check
• Open the choke slowly to the pressure vessel. Set operating pressures
immediately, and set liquid levels as soon as possible
NOTE: A rate preceding the actual test is appropriate to cleanup the well and to
re-evaluate the programmed well performance.
October 2009 31
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
• Utilize the Safety Standby Method for all hazardous operations, and
utilize a second back-up worker during sour hazardous operations
• Monitor flare rates and volumes according to the flare permit (if
applicable)
IRP If the equipment or the procedure cannot safely accommodate the flow,
the well testing company’s supervisor of the shift has the ultimate
authority to reduce the flow or shut in the well, after consultation with
the well owner’s representative. If the representative is not available,
the well testing supervisor will assume the responsibility to reduce the
flow or shut the well in.
• For sour or toxic wells, purge the sour or toxic vapours to flare
32 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP The owner of the well must ensure there are an adequate number of
qualified well testing workers on the wellsite at all times to conduct
operations safely. The following identifies key situations and
recommends a minimum number of workers required to conduct the
operation safely and efficiently.
IRP All owners and well testing companies must exercise caution and good
safety judgement in the selection of well testing equipment components
and the number of qualified well testing workers. Gas/liquid
deliverability, pressure, and toxic vapours such as H2S must be
considered. Test equipment should be selected which reduces the risk of
workers being exposed to toxic vapours. Pressurized storage for the
liquid phase is one method of significantly reducing the toxic vapour
hazard. Per 4.2.2.2 Pressure Rating, vessels for pressurized storage
must meet the requirements of Provincial Regulatory Agencies.
Unregistered non-certified All vessels must have adequately sized
pressure relief devices to prevent bursting overpressure.
IRP For well testing, a minimum of two (working) qualified test workers per
shift are recommended. If an owner chooses to conduct a continuously
manned testing operation without the services of a well testing
company, the minimum worker recommendations still apply.
One qualified well testing person per shift may be used on sweet or sour wells in
the following circumstances:
October 2009 33
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
• The workers at the site assigned to the well testing supervisor are
willing and capable of operating well testing equipment as instructed
A minimum of two qualified well testing workers per shift are recommended
required in the following circumstances:
• The operation is a sour inline test, with all measured well effluents at
the separator diverted back to the pipeline
• A sour operation where the final sour liquid storage stage for produced
fluids is a certified registered pressurized vessel or tank and the
pressure vessel or tank is not preceded by more than one separation
stage
34 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
• The operating pressure at the atmospheric tank system does not exceed
50% of the design pressure
• The atmospheric tank system is not preceded by more than two one
(21) separation stages including a gas boot
• The H2S concentration does not exceed 5% (50 moles per kilomole)
NOTE: If maintaining the atmospheric tank pressure below 50% of the thief
hatch operating pressure becomes a problem, excess solution gas may
be reduced by some or all of the following methods:
October 2009 35
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
• Increasing the tank vent line and tank vent line flame arrestor size.
IRP If such operation cannot rapidly eliminate excess toxic vapours, the well
must be shut in and additional equipment and/or workers called out.
NOTE: When storage stage gas is flared, additional precautions to prevent air
entrainment are required, per Section 4.0.13.25.
The following is the minimum qualifications well testing workers must possess in
training, certification and competence. Petroleum Services Standards of
Competence (PSAC) have been developed for supervisory job classifications.
These standards are registered with Enform and are recognized by the Petroleum
Services Association of Canada (PSAC). Well testing companies should consider
these Standards of Competence when qualifying their workers.
• WHMIS
• TDG
Within a reasonable amount of time after initial hire be trained in the following:
• Company-specific training
36 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
• Be qualified to drive
Individual Must:
• Command of basic testing skills (in order to be able to lead a shift with
minimum supervision)
October 2009 37
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
38 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
APPENDIX IV
Le a s e La yo u t S c h e m a tic s
October 2009 39
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
S we e t We lls
40 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
Co ld S e p a ra to rs Min im u m S p a c in g Re q u ire m e n ts
October 2009 41
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
He a te d Te s t Un it Min im u m S p a c in g Re q u ire m e n ts
42 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
S o u r We lls
October 2009 43
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
44 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
He a te d Te s t Un it Min im u m S p a c in g Re q uire m e n ts
October 2009 45
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
He a te d Te s t Un it a n d P re s s u re Ta nk Min im u m S p a c in g Re q u ire m e n ts
46 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
APPENDIX V
October 2009 47
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
48 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
October 2009 49
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
50 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
October 2009 51
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
S. Comments / Explanations:
Contractor: Signature
Representative
Representative
52 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
APPENDIX VI
October 2009 53
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
450
400
350
300
Velocity m/sec
250
200
150
100
50
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
75
54 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
450
400
350
300
Velocity m/sec
250
200
150
100
50
0
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
110
120
130
140
150
Velocity m/sec Speed of sound @ 0 oC >1% H2S Gas Max Exit Velocity >1% H2S Gas Min Exit Velocity
October 2009 55
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
400
350
300
Gas Velocity m/sec
250
200
150
100
50
0
0
25
50
75
100
125
150
175
200
225
250
3 3
Gas Rate 10 M
56 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
450
400
350
Gas Velocity m/sec
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
October 2009 57
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
450
400
350
300
Gas Velocity m/sec
250
200
150
100
50
0
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
1000
1100
58 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
400
350
300
250
Gas Velocity m/sec
200
150
100
50
0
100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500 1600
Gas Rate 103 M3
October 2009 59
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
APPENDIX VII
Hyd ra te Ch a rts
100000
In hydrate zone
10000
Pressure
(Kpa)
100
0.00 5.00 10.00 15.00 20.00 25.00 30.00
Temparture (0C)
60 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
October 2009 61
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
• The gas or vapours have a toxic effect that is above the occupational
exposure limit
• The vapours or gasses from the well effluent are heavier than air (Fluid
API greater than 50 or Gas has a gravity of over 1.0)
IRP The open top tank must be designed with an inlet diffuser and a device
to prevent splashing and misting of the fluid.
IRP There should also be a device for indicating the fluid level in the tank
that can be read from over 50 metres away.
October 2009 63
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP Placement of the open top tank must conform to the following:
• Prevent any possible spill from the tank from migrating off location
64 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
• The line to the tank must be hard piped and no hoses shall be used.
• No personnel shall enter the hazard zone around the tank that is to
be 25 metres while flowing to the tank.
• After the flow to the tank has been shut down, an appropriate wait
time must be allowed to let any gas or vapours dissipate before the
area is swept with an LEL metre
NOTE: See Section 4.2.9 for IRPs on Monitoring and Supervision of Open Tank
Systems.
IRP In operations where well site personnel or nearby residents have the
potential to be exposed to sour gas or fluids (AB greater than 10 ppm,
BC greater than 10 ppb (parts per billion), or otherwise specified by
jurisdiction), the fluids must be contained in a closed system.
IRP In operations where gas vapours are expected from produced fluid, the
hazards to on-site workers, equipment, and the public must be assessed
and deemed safe before proceeding. Hold and document a hazard
assessment/JSA meeting on the site with all personnel prior to
beginning operations. The meeting should include discussion of
procedures, sources of ignition, personal protective equipment, and
identification of hazardous atmospheres. The report must be posted on
the site.
October 2009 65
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP All open tanks shall be positioned a minimum of 35 meters from the
wellhead, 25 metres from any flame arrested equipment and 50 metres
from any open flame sources.
IRP A hazard zone of 25 metres in all directions from the open tank must
be established and relayed to all persons on the site, when circulating or
pumping to an open tank system.
IRP No worker(s) shall enter the hazard zone while, circulating or pumping
to an open tank system, the only exception being the pump operator or
person monitoring the tank who must be in the zone to operate the
pump if fluid transfer or circulation is required. Precautions must be
taken to ensure the safety of the personnel working within the
hazardous zone, such as wind direction flags and H2S/LEL monitoring.
NOTE: The use of an external gauge on the tank will aid in monitoring tank
levels from outside the, hazard zone
IRP All workers involved with circulating or pumping operations to open tank
systems shall wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
IRP All sources of ignition must be eliminated and locked out where possible.
IRP The operation shall be shutdown before fluids are splashed or flowed
over the sides of the open tank system.
IRP All flows must be controlled using a device other than the wellhead wing
valve.
IRP Physical gauging of open tank systems will only be done after the area is
proven safe by the gas detection device.
66 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP Any loading/unloading of fluids from open tank systems shall be done
with the well shut in and there is no flow to the open-top tank and can
only be done after the area is proven safe by the gas detection device.
IRP Well control equipment should be selected having regard for Section 4.2
Well Testing.
IRP During well killing operations, where possible, the well should be flowed
into the facility pipeline, or production facility or pressurized vessel. If
the facility pipeline is utilized, the backpressure imposed by the line-pac
should be considered. If production facilities or pressurized vessels are
used, the pump rate should not create a pressure exceeding the burst
rating of the system.
In Alberta, ERCB inspection policies regarding the handling of sour effluent are
included in ERCB Directive 037 Service Rig Inspection Manual.
NOTE: In British Columbia, the Oil and Gas Waste Regulation of the Waste
Management Act, Section 3 states, “The owner or operator of a piece of
equipment or a facility referred to in section 4 or 6 (1) must ensure that
the one hour average ambient ground level concentration of hydrogen
sulphide due to the discharge of air contaminants from that equipment
or facility does not, at the perimeter property on which the equipment
or facility is located, exceed 10 parts per billion by volume.” The Oil and
Gas Waste Regulation also in section 4 (g) authorizes discharges to the
air of contaminants by owners or operators of “equipment or facilities
that vent to the air, for the purpose of maintenance of the equipment or
facilities, (i) natural gas that contains less than 230 milligrams of total
sulphur per cubic meter of natural gas, or (ii) natural gas that contains
October 2009 67
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
at least 230 milligrams of total sulphur per cubic meter of natural gas if
the natural gas is combusted in a flare or equivalent.”
Air is sometimes used in coiled tubing clean outs in shallow gas wells with low
formation pressure, where no condensate or H2S is present in the formation fluid,
and there is a low flow rate expectation from the well.
• Wind direction
• Ensure that all the air has been displaced from the well, after the job,
before shutting in or producing the well
IRP Coil Tubing Operations with air can only be performed to an open top
tank.
IRP Air and well effluent must not be flowed into a pressure vessel. It can
only be directed to a pressure vessel after all the air is out of the system
and the well effluent has been checked for any oxygen content. This can
be done with a gas monitor.
68 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP Operations that will involve the bleeding of gas to open systems under
the cover of darkness must proceed only where absolutely necessary.
This will include flowback, swabbing, and coiled tubing operations.
4.3.5.3 Swabbing
IRP A check valve and an additional shut-off valve must be installed on the
flow line. The shut-off valve must be closed while running in the hole if
the hole is on vacuum. Consideration should be given to using a purge
medium to follow swab cups while running in the hole.
NOTE: Check valves do not always seal 100%. The manual shut-off valve is a
backup for the check valve.
The purpose of this procedure is to prevent drawing air or the flame from the flare
into the production tank or into the tubing when running the swab cup back into
the well. The introduction of air into the system can lead to a combustible
mixture. Section 4.0.13.25 details other considerations for the prevention of air
entrainment. Where gases produced are being flared, appropriate backflash
control measures must be taken. Refer to ERCB Directive 060 Section 7.7
Backflash Control.
IRP Shut down of potential ignition sources on location, for example the rig
pump, boiler, heaters, and vaporizers, if not required for the operation,
must be considered during the swabbing of hydrocarbons.
October 2009 69
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP While swabbing to an open tank system where gas vapours are vented
to atmosphere a highly visible device must be used to prevent flow of
traffic onto location advising of Gas Vapours Are Venting to Atmosphere.
IRP The bleed off line from the snubbing unit to the separator must be
equipped with a choke manifold in case of loss of control of the remote
control valve on the snubbing stack.
IRP The line upstream of this choke manifold must be pressure tested to the
anticipated maximum well pressure.
IRP The flowline must be an independent line from the casing to a choke or
choke manifold and must be pressure tested for the maximum wellhead
pressure. Refer to Section 4.2.7
IRP No other line can be connected to this line except for the line that was
used for the pressure test. The pressure testing line should be
disconnected during flowing operations and the connection point
plugged.
IRP The flowline must have a temperature and pressure data acquisition
points to mitigate the hazard of down-hole and surface hydrate
conditions. This must be discussed during the pre-job safety meeting.
IRP The bleed off line from the snubbing unit must not be connected to the
same choke/manifold or separator as the flowline from the casing.
IRP The bleed off line can be piped to a second separator such as a low
stage downstream of the primary separator provided its operational
pressure is reduced to near atmospheric conditions and will not have the
70 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP The possibility of running the bleed off line to a rig tank can be
considered if it meets the requirements as laid out in Section 4.3.1
Flowing to Open Top Tank.
IRP This operation must only be conducted during daylight hours taking into
account environmental weather conditions
October 2009 71
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
• Flow back lines from the tubing and the snubbing unit bleed off line
must be rigged in, in such a way that if the upper snubbing BOP
needs to be opened at any time, the snubbing stack can be bled off
to zero before opening the upper snubbing BOP.
All the surface equipment used for sand cleanouts must be dedicated
solely for that purpose. This equipment must be an addition to normal rig
inventory. The valves must be lubricated and pressure tested after each
use. When leaks are detected, they must be sent for repair and
recertification to OEM specifications. Hose ends must be integral crimped
unit style
Hoses will typically bubble before failing and must be replaced, not
repaired, when this is noticed. The swivel and Chiksan must be monitored
for erosion wear after each use and repaired as needed.
72 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP For all field estimates with a Hydrometer an API gravity greater than 50
are considered to be High Reid Vapour Pressure hydrocarbons. Unless a
current MSDS of the fluid injected into the well documents it does not
have a High Reid Pressure value.
IRP Fluid recovered after injected into the well must be monitored for
change in properties to determine if the Reid Vapour Pressure is
increasing.
Note. Not all HRVP Fluid are flammable. Some non-flammable fluids are liquid
carbon dioxide, liquid oxygen and liquid nitrogen.
Note. High RVP fracturing fluids include: propane, butane, isobutene, etc.
IRP Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for fracturing fluids must be on
location and reviewed.
IRP An ESD meets or exceeds the wellhead design criteria must be installed
on the wellhead.
October 2009 73
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP Fluid from the primary vessel must be handled in one of the following
ways:
• Diverted to pipeline
• Vapourized to flare
IRP When vapourizing fluid for flaring, minimum heat requirements must be
met. Refer to Figure 3: Propane - Heat of Vaporization Volume Basis for
heat required for proper vapourization
74 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
October 2009 75
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
76 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
October 2009 77
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
Above factors are based upon atmospheric pressure, 101.3 kPa, and at ambient
temperature, 15o C, as applicable. Physical properties of LPG will vary little within
the allowed HD5 composition.
LPG Composition:
Refer to IRP 7 Standards for Well Site Supervision of Drilling Completions and
Workovers
78 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
IRP Fluid Hauling companies must adhere to the following procedures and
practices.
• Treat sweet fluids being hauled immediately after a sour load as a sour
load with respect to worker safety
• Maintain all equipment valves, fittings, hoses, and hatch seals in good
working order
• All drivers should be trained in the selection, use and care of gas
detection equipment
October 2009 79
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
• Prior to loading fluid ensure all equipment has a bonding device in place
(grounding) and is used
• Toxicity
• Flammability
• Corrosive effects
• Solid deposition
IRP Well Owners and transporters of fluid must make or have available
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to workers. Refer to Section
4.0.13.22 for more information.
NOTE: Current MSDS and TDG information may provide valuable information to
assess any toxicological or flammability hazards.
Other sources of produced fluid properties information includes well testing and
reservoir fluid analysis, regulatory production reports or custody transfer (point of
sale) measurements.
The use of a closed system (pressurized tanks or atmospheric tanks equipped with
suitable vapour gathering – flaring / scrubbing systems) may be necessary to
eliminate any H2S releases to atmosphere (nuisance odorous and public or
personal safety). The duration of operation, proximity to, and notification of area
residents, should be considered. Inspection policies regarding the handling of sour
effluent in Alberta are included in ERCB Directive 037, Service Rig Inspection
Manual.
80 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
Closed systems can also be utilized to enhance the safe handling of high vapour
pressure hydrocarbons on the well site.
IRP Atmospheric tank trucks should only be used to haul sweet and sour
fluids where the fluid is non-gaseous and there is minimal possibility of
vapour breakout due to agitation or ambient temperature increases. An
H2S scrubber must be used while loading, unloading and transporting
sour fluids where an atmospheric tank truck is used to haul sour fluids.
IRP Operators of trucks equipped with on-board scrubbers must ensure that
their units are maintained as per manufacturer recommendations. Refer
to Section 4.0.13.17.
IRP Where there is the possibility of vapour breakout and pressure build up
on the tank truck due to agitation or increased ambient temperature,
the sour fluid must be transported in a certified tank truck.
IRP To haul sour gaseous fluids the pressurized tank truck must arrive at the
well site with a purge in the tank or be equipped to be purged at the
well site.
IRP All vents must be closed and all fluid transfer lines capped while
transporting the fluid
• The tank has been purged and been tested with an LEL meter to
determine the oxygen content in the tank
• There is a back flash control mechanism in the vent line to the stack
October 2009 81
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
• The system, including the tank truck and the tanks being emptied
will not allow air into the system
IRP The facility where the fluids will be off-loaded should be equipped with a
purge gas make-up system so as to purge the tank while fluid is being
pumped off, allowing the tank truck to have a purge on board when
returning to the well site.
• The pressure capabilities of the piping and hose system to the tank
truck must meet the operating pressure of the shipping vessel
NOTE: Where possible, shut-off the truck while loading. The pressure on the
flowback or storage tank will transfer the fluid to the tank truck. The use
of a pump will also agitate fluids resulting in additional gas vapour from
the fluid.
IRP When loading fluids produced from a sour well where testing operations
are in progress the following procedures must be adhered to:
82 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
2) Where a truck equipped with a pressurized tank is used, ensure the tank
specification including pressure rating is sufficient for the nature of the fluids
being loaded. See Venting Tanks to Flare Stacks below.
IRP Tank trucks must be a minimum of 7 metres from the atmospheric tank
to be filled or unloaded.
IRP When loading sour fluids, tank truck vapours may be directed into a
flare system as long as the trucks tank contains no oxygen, otherwise
tank truck vapours should be scrubbed through an H2S scrubber and
vented to atmosphere. Eliminating oxygen can be achieved by the
following:
October 2009 83
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
IRP Tank trucks must be a minimum of 7 metres from the tank to be filled
or unloaded (25 metres from pressurized vessel).
NOTE: Refer to the definitions in this IRP for information relative to TDG
legislation and tank construction.
IRP Trucks transporting sour fluid must be equipped with a functional H2S
scrubber to adequately control odour emissions or be a sealed tank.
IRP The tank vent must be sealed during storage and during transport when
the truck is empty.
IRP Workers transporting sour fluids shall have valid H2S Alive®, WHMIS,
and TDG certificates.
IRP Workers operating fluid hauling trucks must have a valid operator’s
license and a permit for the province/territory of operation.
IRP Workers must be properly trained in the use of safety equipment used in
the course of the operation, including breathing equipment, gas
detection, and explosive monitoring devices.
84 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
TDG Class 2, Gasses Hydrocarbon mixtures with a Reid Vapour Pressure of 275
kPa (40 psi) or greater at 37.8o C (100o F) are gasses for the purposes of
transportation.
NOTE: Reid Vapour Pressure is determined in a laboratory test. API gravity can
be readily measured in the field. C1-C7 content can also be indicative of
flammability. Flammability increases with increasing C1-C7 content.
Fluid analyses, if available, should be reviewed. Fluid and ambient
temperatures should also be considered.
References/Links
Transport Canada TDG Regs, Schedule VI, Part I (Class 3, Flammable Liquids,
Packing Group Test Methods)
Transport Canada TDG Regs, Schedule VI, Part III (Class 2, Gases, Reid Vapour
Pressure, Test Methods)
ASME B31.3
October 2009 85
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
APPENDIX VIII
B IBLIOGRAP HY
American Petroleum Institute (API), Recommended Practices for Drill Stem Design
and Operating Limits, Thirteenth Edition, April 1, 1989, RP7G, Dallas, Texas
API, Recommended Practices for Occupational Safety and Health for Oil and Gas
Well Drilling and Servicing Operations First Edition, January, 1981, RP54,
Dallas, Texas.
API, Specification for Wellhead and Christmas Tree Equipment, Spec. 6A Edition,
Dallas, Texas
American Society Of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Code for Pressure Piping, B31,
Chemical and Petroleum Refinery Piping, ASME B31.3, 1990 Edition, 345 East
47th Street, New York, N.Y. 10017.
ASME, B16.5 Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings, 1988 Edition, 345 East 47th
Street, New York, N.Y. 10017.
ASME, Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Div I, 345 East 47th Street,
New York, N.Y. 10017.
American Society of Testing And Materials (ASTM), Standard Test Method for
Vapour Pressure of Petroleum Products (Reid Method), Philadelphia, PA.
ASTM, D56-79: Standard Test Method for Flash Point by Tag Closed Tester,
Philadelphia, PA.
ASTM, D93-80: Standard Test Method for Flash Point by Penski-Martens Closed
Tester, Philadelphia, P.A.
ASTM, D3278-82: Standard Test Method for Flash Point of Liquids by Setaflash
Closed Tester, Philadelphia, P.A.
86 October 2009
Well Testing and Fluid Handling IRP4
CSA, B620-1987: Highway Tanks and Portable Tanks for the Transportation of
Dangerous Goods, Rexdale, Ontario.
CSA, B621-1987: Selection and Use of Highway Tanks, Portable Tanks, Cargo
Compartments and Containers for the Transportation of Dangerous Goods,
Classes 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 in Bulk by Road, Rexdale, Ontario.
CSA, B622-1987: Selection and Use of Highway Tanks, Multi-unit Tank Cars and
Portable Tanks for the Transportation of Dangerous Goods, Class 2, by Road,
Rexdale, Ontario.
CSA, B620-98: Highway Tanks and Portable Tanks for the Transportation of
Dangerous Goods, Rexdale, Ontario..
CSA, B621-98: Selection and Use of Highway Tanks, Portable Tanks, Cargo
Compartments and Containers for the Transportation of Dangerous Goods,
Classes 3, 4, 5, 6.1, 8 and 9, Rexdale, Ontario..
October 2009 87
IRP4 Well Testing and Fluid Handling
CSA, B622-98: Selection and Use of Highway Tanks, Multi-unit Tank Cars and
Portable Tanks for the Transportation of Dangerous Goods, Class 2, Rexdale,
Ontario.
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