Wellsite Preparation (SOP)

Constructing Flare Pits and Flare Line Berms

Introduction

The oil and gas extraction field is undoubtedly one where safety and efficiency are key. The proper construction of flare pits and flare line berms is one of those key elements. These serve as vital barriers to flammable gases and liquids, helping avoid accidents and keeping industry standards.

This article discusses the full process of building flare pits and flare line berms, guiding through important processes, steps and the best practices and considerations to ensure maximum safety and operational efficiency.

Flare Pit Construction

Hydrocarbons are safely disposed of in a designated flare pit. Here are the steps one should follow to build flare pits correctly:

1.1 Strategic Placement

✔Two flare pits should be built south the wellhead.

✔For a second lateral flare pit, it should be set on the opposite of the slope, East or West depending on the terrain, East being preferred.

1.2 Dimensions and Depth

✔Minimum internal dimensions for each flare pit are 30 meters wide by 40 meters long.

✔The depth of the pit is supposed to be 2 to 3 meters, measured from the top of the wall to the top of the inside floor of the pit.

1.3 Grading and Slope

✔The floor of the pits must fall to the center in that line of the flare lines.

✔A pitch toward the well side (front) of the pit allows for effective drainage and avoids pooling of hazardous fluids.

1.4 Structural Integrity and Lining

✔Reinforced soil or concrete lining provides added durability.

✔Install drainage channels to guide excess fluids away from working regions.

Access Berm Construction

Land berms provide safe transport of heavy duty vehicles transporting equipment and service personnel from the well pad to flare pits. Stability and Access are Guaranteed by Proper Construction.

2.1 Berm Location and Design

✔From the edge of the well pad to each of the flare pits, build an access berm.

✔Keep the grade level or as level as possible depending its terrain.

2.2 Dimensions and Stability

✔The width of the graded crown on each access berm should not be less than ten meters.

✔This width allows for flare lines, anchor boxes, diesel storage tanks and service-vessel wakes.

✔It is also possible to create a vehicle turn-around pad at the pit end of the access berm to prevent U-turn.

2.3 Optimal Alignment

✔The centerline of the South access berm will be aligned with the wellhead for a clean approach and access.

✔If you are building a lateral access berm, facing East or West, make sure that it is perpendicular to the South berm along the South edge of the location plot.

Factors for Construction

A few considerations when making sure that flare pits and access berms remain effective and have a longer lifespan.

3.1 Site Selection

Test soil for load-bearing capabilities.

3.2 Materials and Techniques

✔You can use compacted soil, gravel or even reinforced concrete for flare.

✔Wind and water can break down soil over time and your softscape must be able to adapt to this kind of movement.

3.3 Workforce and Compliance

✔Use qualified engineering and construction professionals with knowledge of industry standards.

✔Submit for and keep all necessary local and international permits.

3.4 Inspection

✔Routine inspections of the roof system for evidence of cracking, erosion or specters.

✔Carry out corrective actions for safety immediately.

✔Their impact on the environment and ways to mitigate it

✔Flare pits and access berms are construction that has the potential of environmental impact, thereby requiring mitigation schemes.

4.1 Erosion control and sedimentation

✔Anticipate erosion and install silt fences and cover vegetation.

✔Provide ions and nutrients to the system and use drainage channels to prevent soil degradation;

4.2 Protection of Wildlife and Habitat

✔If construction is envisioned, conduct an environmental impact assessment (EIA).

✔Don't build in sensitive ecosystems protects habitats of wildlife.

4.3 Management of Air and Water Quality

✔Limit the amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) being released.

✔Fluid Containment Strategies to Prevent Water Contamination

✔Trade and Customs Regulations

✔To mitigate potential legal, financial, and operational consequences, it is essential to maintain safety and compliance while constructing flare pits and access berms.

5.1 Compliance with Safety Procedure

✔This includes: Monitor the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

✔Conduct training for workers on hazard identification and improvisation of emergency response

5.2 Regulatory Requirements

✔Get Your Permits and Approvals Before You Build

✔Follow any specialized regulations as outlined by OSHA, the EPA, or local governing bodies.

5.3 Risk Mitigation Measures

✔Set up emergency shutoff systems in the event of gas leaks or fires.

✔Fire control equipment will be maintained on site

Conclusion

✔Flare pits and flare line berm construction are essential for oil and gas extraction infrastructure. Safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency come down to proper planning, execution, and maintenance.

✔This includes improving performance of flare pits and access berms to minimize the environmental footprint and ultimately achieve optimal flare pit and access berm functionality implementing and following industry best practices while maintaining performace on surface operations to ensure environmental protection and prevention of public harm.

✔Adopting proper construction measures is critical to protect people and facilities and improve sustainable processes with flammable gases and liquids in oil and gas facility activities.