STWA's pipeline hardware delivers benefits

STWA, Inc., a developer of integrated solutions for the energy industry, announced today that its innovative applied oil technology (AOT) pipeline flow assurance hardware has shown to provide energy-saving, operational performance improvements based on independently conducted tests on closed loop pipeline infrastructure. Designed to be installed on pipeline pumping stations, the AOT system reduces the viscosity of crude and improves flow by applying an electrical charge to crude oil, allowing pipelines to operate at a lower pressure and transport crude more efficiently.

According to analysis of data compiled from both laboratory simulations and installation on pipeline equipment by the US Department of Energy, Temple University and STWA officials, viscosity reduction outcomes were sufficient to "reliably increase throughput and/or a reduction in back pressure and power consumption," an effect attributed to less resistance and turbulence in the pipe and a lower pressure threshold needed to operate the line. Results from multiple tests demonstrated that operational efficiencies achieved "could reasonably be expected to measurably lower carbon or greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with the operation of the pipeline."

Long-range pipelines are capable of moving upwards of 200 000 - 500 000 bpd, providing an opportunity for significant toll rate gains and overhead cost savings with even incremental improvements in operational efficiency.

"We're very pleased with our progress we're making in the commercialisation of AOT, particularly as the energy industry increases its focus on, and level of investment in, clean tech solutions," commented Gregg Bigger, STWA Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. "By enabling our customers to possibly rein in the amount of energy they use to run pumping stations and the power needed to transport each barrel of oil, AOT holds the potential to contribute meaningfully to the oil and gas industry's commitment to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through more energy efficient, environmentally sound transport of crude from well hole to market."

To highlight the growing demand for clean tech solutions within the US energy sector, Mr. Bigger cited a 2011 report commissioned by the American Petroleum Institute (API) which found that American oil and gas companies had invested approximately US$ 81 billion in greenhouse gas-mitigating technologies between 2000 and 2012. The data also showed that when expenditures on infrastructure related to production centred on shale formations was included, investment in GHG mitigation rose to $165.4 billion, more than the federal government and nearly as much as all other industries combined over the same time frame.

The study concludes that thanks to these efforts and other factors, the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported that energy-related greenhouse gas emissions dropped in 2011 by 2.9% from 2010 and an additional 2.1% in 2012 compared to 2010. In 2013, emissions were 705 million metric tons or 13% below 2005 levels.

"The American Petroleum Institute has devoted considerable attention to the study of clean tech within the energy sector and their research has found US carbon dioxide emissions to be at their lowest levels in 20 years, in part because America's oil and natural gas companies have made a significant investment to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions," Mr. Bigger stated. "Our patented AOT Viscosity Reduction System is well suited to play a crucial role in the safer, more cost-effective delivery of oil, all while enabling our customers to reduce their carbon footprint and lessen the environmental impact of their operations."

Commenting on the findings of the report, API vice president for Policy and Economic Analysis Kyle Isakower said in a prepared statement that the energy industry is "aggressively pursuing new technologies and game-changing energy research that will fuel innovation for years to come … investments [that will] not only lower carbon emissions, [but] create jobs and advance America's technological competitiveness."

As the largest trade association for the oil and natural gas industry, API represents over 480 energy companies based in the United States and overseas.

"Clearly, the U.S. and global energy industry is entering a new era of sourcing, producing and transporting oil and gas in an increasingly responsible and environmentally-sound manner," Mr. Bigger added. "Over the past several years STWA has ideally positioned itself as an approved vendor of industry-certified flow assurance technologies to help meet the carbon neutral objectives of our customers."

Adapted from press release by Hannah Priestley-Eaton

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/15082014/stwa-pipeline-hardware-delivers-benefits/