Level Switch Detects Oil And Nitrogen Interface To Support Effective PIG System Operation

By Drew Ruderman, M.E. and Ryan Christie, M.E., Engineered Equipment Company of Alaska, and Steve Cox, Fluid Components International

A major oil producer in Alaska’s North Slope region operates miles of transit pipeline as part of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS) within the U.S. National Petroleum Reserve – Alaska. The oil producer’s pipeline travels through Alaska’s environmentally sensitive wilderness and native tribal homelands. Due to extreme climate conditions, operating the pipeline is challenging and requires highly reliable equipment to avoid any leaks or other accidents that would compromise this pristine ecosystem.