As the temperatures drop, it’s crucial to remember how cold weather can impact your equipment and operations. From frozen lines to damaged valves, winter weather can cause serious issues if we’re not prepared. Here are some important things to keep in mind to ensure your equipment is safe and functioning properly:

• Ice Pressure & Frozen Equipment: Residual water left in equipment can freeze, creating dangerous pressures that can rupture vessels and lines. Always drain lines and flush units with a 50/50 methanol blend when temps drop below 32°F.
• Protecting Flowlines & Components: Use H2S-rated flowlines, designed with special steel to resist embrittlement in cold weather. Don’t forget to inspect rubber hoses and seals—extreme temps accelerate aging and risk failure.
• Cold Pressure Drop Awareness: Be mindful of pressure testing, especially on equipment like valves, as cold temps can cause pressure drops that lead to freezing. Check cold-working pressure ratings on valve specs, and if possible, break up the pressure drop between regulators.
• High-Pressure Regulators: These are notorious for freezing during cold weather. Be sure to install liquid knockouts, drain valves, and consider using methanol or glycol drip cylinders to prevent ice formation.
• Sampling & Temperature Considerations: When gathering gas samples in cold conditions, make sure to warm the gas sample cylinders to separator temperature to avoid inaccurate readings and condensation.

Pro Tip: For operations in extreme cold, consider using intrinsically approved heaters and always be cautious when temperatures dip below -20°F—this is where extra caution and preventive measures really make a difference!

At EnerCorp, we care about the safety of your team and the longevity of your equipment, especially in challenging conditions. Stay safe and stay prepared. Let’s make sure your operations keep running smoothly, even in the coldest temps.