Azerbaijan pipeline to transport gas to Turkey and Europe (via Tanap pipeline)
The Saipem (Italy) and Azfen (Azerbaijan) joint venture are currently manufacturing the South Caucasus Pipeline. The expansion of the South Caucasus Pipeline is part of the Shah Deniz Full Field Development project. This expansion involves the laying of new pipelines across Azerbaijan and the construction of two new compressor stations in Georgia. This will triple the gas volumes exported through the pipeline to over 20 billion cubic meters on an annual basis.
At the border between Georgia and Turkey, the pipeline will link into the Tanap pipeline to provide gas intro Turkey and the European Union
Vlentec has supplied equipment and local technical training to Saipem and Azfen staff in Baku. Safe Work Method documentation was adapted to comply to BP (British Petroleum – the main pipeline operator) and Azerbaijan regulations.
All units are 12 500 kg SC125N-D vacuum lifters fitted with a heavy duty rotator (15 000 kg lifting capacity) and suction pads to lift 44 to 48 inch diameter pipes. The SC125N-D is Vlentec’s diesel powered, light weight vacuum lifter. The light weight beam on the end of the arm allows the use of a smaller excavator, lowering contractor investment and maintenance costs.
Pipe handling time is expected to be reduced by more than 10 times compared to conventional lifting methods, paired with a 60% reduction of pipe handling staff.
