Zeepipe construction progresses toward 1993 start-up

This paper reports that first-phase construction on the longest and largest pipeline ever laid in the North Sea will peak this year with completion of pipelaying and tie-ins. Phase 1 of the Zeepipe transportation system (ZTS) targets full gas delivery to the Belgian port of Zeebrugge on October 1, 1993. Start-up and partial delivery of first gas to the terminal will occur somewhat earlier, based on current negotiations with buyers. More than 390 miles of 30 and 40-in. pipeline were laid between April 12 and September 16, 1991. This work included 0.93 miles of 40-in. at the Sleipner field, 366.8 miles of 40-in. between Sleipner and Zeebrugge, and 24.2 miles of 30-in. To connect Zeepipe at Sleipner to the Statpipe system at the nearby 16/11-S platform. Pipelay contractors are currently at work on 143 miles of 20-in. line to connect Sleipner to Karsto and on the final leg between Sleipner and Zeebrugge, 135.4 miles of 40 in. When pipelaying operations are completed this year, 670 miles of 20, 30, and 40-in. pipeline will have been laid since April 1991