Investigation Report
Gas Release and Water Hammer Following Compressor Shutdown
02-28-2007 20:14 G15610 GC/782 Required Muster - Shutdown from Gas Release
- BSEE
- Investigation Report
- Unknown
- Hydrocarbon releaseMechanical failurePressure systems
- Gas detectorProcess pipework and pipelinesPumpsRotating machineryValve
- Emergency responsePressure relief
- Upstream oil and gas
Summary
Investigation of a gas release at Mad Dog following compressor shutdown. Flare backpressure caused tandem rupture discs to fail, allowing gas into seawater cooling pipework and causing water hammer and damage. The report examines earlier failures and recommends check valves, revised pressure protection, flare modifications and delayed seawater pump shutdown.
Classifications: Hydrocarbon release; hydrocarbon leak; oil and gas release.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Gas detector; gas monitor; gas detection instrument.
Classifications: Process pipework and pipelines; process piping.
Classifications: Pumps.
Classifications: Rotating machinery; rotating equipment.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Emergency response; emergency preparedness.
Classifications: Pressure relief; overpressure protection.
Classifications: Upstream oil and gas; oil and gas extraction; upstream petroleum.