• a confined space envelope excluded the possibility to utilise conventional ASME /ANSI or API6A-6BX
  flange connectors
• Operating conditions for the 8” production riser : Design pressure 235Barg , min / max temperature -
  10/ 94 deg C
• Operating conditions for the 8” water injection riser : Design pressure 250Barg , max temperature -
  10 /38 deg C

The pipeline connectors were to be assembled both topside and subsea and it was therefore important
that the connector was viewed as being diver friendly.

Solution : Compact flange technology was identified as the way forward and in particular
Techlok clamp connectors were specifically chosen over the SPO compact flange design due to
- their reduced bolting circle
- this in turn reduced the bolting make up envelope. 
- the subsea make up envelope was further minimised by implementing a retaining device to help 
  seat the sealring.

Project : Hibernia platform, North AtlanticBackground : One of the biggest projects of its kind (37,000 tonnes topside)

• platform required flowline upgrades
• lightweight connection solution was needed (to keep topside weight to a minimum)

essential for the connectors to be resistant to severe cold.

Solution : 
Techlok clamp connectors offer 70 to 80% weight savings on traditional ANSI flanges :
- proven to operate in temperatures from -254°C to 950°C.
- the clamp’s integral seal ring is resistant to the effects of corrosion.

Project : BP’s Millar platform in the North Sea

Background :
Upgrade of process piping as part of the Millar gas import project. Significant modification of topside process piping. Joint integrity working at 174 to 420 bar g. Space and weight savings were imperative topside.

Solution :
315 Techlok clamp connector hubs have been provided for the upgrade in sizes from 2-16 inches and
manufactured in carbon steel and 316 stainless steel.
70 to 80 per cent weight and space savings were achieved over ANSI flanges of the same pressure rating, high level of support for AMEC engineers regarding the specification, installation and testing of components to ensure best possible for the piping modifications.

Project: BP Shah Deniz field Caspian SeaBackground :
Technip is responsible for gas extraction and specified Vector a high performance, no-leak solution to
ANSI flanges was required 350 Techlok compact clamp connectors were supplied for this Caspian project.

Solution :
Techlok connectors were supplied in sizes ranging from 1 to 16 inches manufactured in duplex and super
duplex steels used on flowlines at pressures up to 10,000 psi. Weight and space savings of some 70 to 80
per cent were achieved with improved seal integrity.
High-level service and on-going project support that were the key reasons for Techlok being specified Lightweight, compact and most importantly leak-free connectors provide significant advantages over the traditional flange. Strengthening relationships with operators and contractors in developing regions is a key goal for Vector.