The SafePurge system: a modular solution for safer pipeline venting
SafePurge has developed a fast, easy-to-use system designed to make pipeline venting operations safer for operational personnel, as well as control in-ground gas leaks.
Available through Tremco Pipeline Equipment, the SafePurge system is a modular toolkit designed to handle everything from routine service installs to emergency leak control. By integrating three core components – the Air Mover, the Purge Stand, and the Bar Hole Aspirator – operators can adapt their setup to meet specific site safety requirements.
The SafePurge Air Mover
The Air Mover is the primary “engine” of the system, specifically designed for operations where 0% gas concentration is required. This makes it essential for hot-work, repairs, or pipeline abandonments.
The Air Mover utilises a venturi effect to safely pull combustible and hazardous gases through a pipeline. Unlike other funnel-type air movers that often require complex modifications and adapters, the SafePurge Air Mover is the only device in the gas industry featuring a positive threaded connection to a controlled shut-off.
The SafePurge Air Mover is quality-tested and available in two primary sizes: the 2-inch Original Air Mover and the 1-inch Mini Air Mover.
How the SafePurge Air Mover works:
- The device features an air venturi inlet pipe that curves upward, concentric to a purging nipple.
- Air flowing from the inlet pipe and out the top creates a venturi effect.
- This effect draws harmful gases up and out of the vent stacks, where they are continually replaced by fresh air from an inlet.
The Air Mover can also be used in-line on the Purge Stand, positioned between the body and the extensions, to better vent gas further away from the working location.
The SafePurge Purge Stand
While the Air Mover provides the power, the Purge Stand provides control and height. It allows service technicians to purge gas safely away from work locations and is typically used when purging to 100% product, such as for new service installs.
SafePurge Purge Stands are available as a fully collapsible, portable purging kit. To comply with safety standards, the stand utilises lightweight aluminium extensions to achieve a discharge height between 2.1 and 3.3 metres (7 to 11 feet).
Key safety features include:
- Adjustable base: Each leg is independently adjustable with three angle settings and two expandable lengths, ensuring the stand remains stable on uneven ground.
- Monitoring port: Technicians can measure and monitor gas levels at a safe, waist-height test port built directly into the stand.
- Earthing/Grounding: Each stand includes a stainless steel grounding rod with a 3.6-metre (12-foot) cable to prevent static sparking during the purging process.
- Durability: Built with a powder-coated Schedule 40 steel body and aluminium extensions.
- All weather ready: Includes tie-down brackets for high-wind conditions.
The Bar Hole Aspirator: versatile solution for in-ground gas leaks
or in-ground gas leaks, the Bar Hole Aspirator (and the optional Purge Hood) acts as the extraction point. These accessories are designed to work in tandem with the Purge Stand and Air Mover to evacuate leaking gas in emergency situations.
How to use the SafePurge Bar Hole Aspirator:
- Install: Place the Air Mover in-line between the Purge Stand body and the Purge Extensions.
- Air supply: Connect the Air Mover to a constant-flow air supply.
- Hose connection: Attach a hose from the Purge Stand inlet to the 1-inch MNPT on the Bar Hole Aspirator.
- Deployment: Place the Aspirator into a 35mm (1 ⅜ inch) bar hole nearest the leak site.
- Powered Draw: Once the Air Mover is activated, it creates the necessary flow to draw gas out of the ground, through the stand, and safely out of the elevated extensions.
- Monitoring: Use the Purge Stand’s built-in test port to monitor gas levels at waist height.
Applications
The SafePurge system is suitable for a wide range of oil and gas applications, including:
- Transmission and distribution pipelines.
- Storage facilities and refineries.
- Confined space hazard control.
By utilising these components as a complete system, pipeline operators ensure that hazardous gases are captured and discharged well away from work locations and potential ignition sources.
For more information on how the SafePurge system can improve your pipeline venting safety, contact Tremco Pipeline Equipment at (07) 3344 1066 or via email at sales@tremcopipeline.com.au