Trans-Alaska pipeline successfully restarted

Petroleum News Alaska Staff

Alyeska Pipeline Service Co. said Sept. 12 that the trans-Alaska pipeline was successfully restarted after a 26-hour planned maintenance shutdown to replace a 48-inch mainline valve about one-half mile north of the Yukon River.

Alyeska said the valve was replaced because it did not seal completely when closed. The 78,000 pound valve with 12 feet of pipe on either side was cut away from the pipeline and will be inspected, repaired, and returned the Alyeska inventory. The valve replacement cost $3.8 million.

During the shutdown more than other 165 maintenance tasks were also completed along the pipeline, at the pump stations and at the Valdez marine terminal.