Abstract
<jats:p>A new technology for repairing local sections of the linear part of main gas pipelines without using pipe-laying cranes, by using universal support-centering devices UTsTM 300-700, has been developed by specialists from LLC «Gazprom transgaz Ufa» and LLC «Ufa Compressor Plant».The article presents an innovative technology for selective repair of local sections of the linear part of main gas pipelines with a nominal diameter DN 300-700, which involves replacing spools or individual pipes without using pipe-laying cranes.The relevance of the development is driven by restrictions on heavy-load equipment movement, caused by: insufficient load-bearing capacity of approximately 350 bridge structures in the area where heavy-load equipment of subsidiaries of PJSC «Gazprom» operates (including 335 bridges managed by regional and municipal authorities and 15 federal level bridges); long periods of document processing for special permits for transportation even across bridges that meet load-bearing requirements. The key element of the technology is the universal main pipe alignment device UTsTM 300-700, which is a hydraulic module installed at the bottom of the trench. The device ensures holding and precise alignment of the end sections of the pipeline during cutting and welding of non-rotating joints.This paper describes the design features of the UTsTM 300-700, defines its scope of applicability, presents workflow diagrams using one or two UTsTM devices, and presents the results of pilot tests conducted at a Gazprom Transgaz Ufa facility with the participation of experts from Gazprom VNIIGAZ and Gazprom Gaznadzor.Analysis of the test results showed that UTsTM implementation allows for: reduction in material, technical, and labor costs; reduction in the organizational preparation time for repair work; optimization the fleet of pipe-laying cranes at operating organizations and contractors performing these works under the contract. A forecasted feasibility assessment for the repair program in the first and second years of operation (based on data from 25 local gas pipeline annual overhauls) was conducted.The results confirm the potential for: replication of the technology in PJSC Gazprom subsidiaries; • expanding the range of UTsTM devices to other pipeline diameter ranges.</jats:p>