Line Blind Technology

Abstract Executive Summary Line blind is a new positive isolation technology that may replace traditional blinding. Line blind requires minimal preparations to change the position from close to open or vice versa. With this technology, there will be no need for multiple technicians, cranes, and other logistical considerations when there is a need to change the position of the blind. This technology enables one or two operators to change the position of a blind significantly faster (5 min.) than with traditional blinding systems (4-8 hours). With this new technology, there is no need to replace gaskets every time the position of the blind is changed. A trial test was conducted over six months to evaluate and assess the benefits that this device could bring to Saudi Aramco. The blind was installed downstream of a saltwater injection pump at one of Saudi Aramco's gas-oil separation plants (GOSPs) during the first week of February in 2013, and commissioned on Feb. 13. This location was selected as it represents one of the most challenging applications since it is very high pressure (up to 3000 psi) and a very corrosive environment. After the 6-month test, the line blind technology showed high reliability and ease of use. The test results show a significant reduction in the time consumption and resources requirement to change the position of the blind at this particular location. Traditional blinds used to require a team of 4-5 technicians and a crane with its operator and substantial work coordination and time delays. Each time the traditional blind is changed used to take up to 4 hours of physical work. With this technology, one operator was able to change the position of the blind in less than 5 min. The line blind, was tested against 3000 psig discharge pressure without any leaks. This test was repeated several times during the test period. There was one incident where minor droppings were noticed after the pressure reached 3050-3100 psig. This was mainly due to the fact that the faces of the line blind were not cleaned as per the recommendations from the vendor. The test was repeated after this incident and the faces were cleaned and the system was tested successfully to 3100 psig with no leak detected. This is a test that confirmed that line blind technology is a very reliable system for positive isolation that can significantly improve operations and minimize risks.