BFPL finds no pipeline leak near Rama III, plans further high-tech scan
BFPL says pressure testing found no leak in its underground oil pipeline near Chuea Phloeng and Rama III roads, with further high-tech inspections planned.
Bangkok Fuel Pipeline and Logistics Co., Ltd. (BFPL), a Bangchak Group company, said pressure testing of its underground oil pipeline around Chuea Phloeng and Rama III roads found no leakage, with the pipeline system remaining fully intact. BFPL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bangchak Corporation.
The company plans to conduct further inspections using advanced technology, including an Intelligent Pig pipeline inspection system next week, as authorities continue investigating oil contamination found in the drainage system around Chuea Phloeng Road and beneath the Rama III elevated road in Khlong Toei district.
BFPL, which holds management rights over the pipeline, said it would take full responsibility and provide fair compensation if the deeper investigation ultimately established that its operations were the source of the contamination.
Pipeline inspected continuously from September 7-11
BFPL said it had worked with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and other agencies around the clock since receiving notification of the incident.
On September 7, personnel were immediately dispatched to inspect the area.
The company temporarily suspended fuel transportation through the pipeline on September 8 as a safety precaution and to allow inspections to proceed.
On September 9, engineers conducted direct current voltage gradient (DCVG) testing to identify possible defects in the pipeline’s external protective coating. Three locations were subsequently selected for excavation.
The three sites were opened on September 10. Water mixed with oil was found at one location, although its source could not be determined at that stage.
A pressure test was then conducted on September 11 to detect any pipeline leaks that might not be visible during an external inspection.
Pressure remained stable during one-hour test
BFPL said the pressure test was conducted under tightly controlled conditions.
Pressure inside the pipeline was gradually increased from 10 barg to 28 barg, its normal operating pressure, and maintained at that level for one hour.
“The results confirmed that there was no leak in the oil pipeline. No abnormal pressure drop was detected, and no liquid seepage was found along the pipeline,” the company said.
“All measurements recorded by the control room were within the required standards.”
Representatives of government agencies, including the Energy Ministry, Department of Energy Business, Khlong Toei District Office and Pollution Control Department, observed the testing.
Intelligent Pig to inspect pipeline internally
Despite the normal pressure-test results, BFPL said it would carry out additional inspections to provide greater assurance over the pipeline’s condition.
Ultrasonic testing and radar scanning will be used to look for abnormalities in the pipeline wall within a one-kilometre radius of the affected area.
The company also plans to deploy an Intelligent Pig, a specialised device that travels through a pipeline to conduct a detailed internal inspection, next week.
Once the additional inspections are completed, the findings will be submitted to the Department of Energy Business for consideration before permission is sought to resume normal pipeline operations.
Bangchak prepares alternative fuel transport and compensation
Throughout the investigation, Bangchak Group has provided assistance to nearby communities, including food, drinking water and temporary accommodation for those affected.
BFPL reiterated that if the detailed investigation concluded that damage or contamination resulted from its operations, the company would accept responsibility and provide full and fair compensation.
Alternative fuel-transport arrangements have also been prepared to ensure that the temporary pipeline suspension does not disrupt supplies to consumers.
