Publications

The Suban field is located in South Sumatra, Corridor Block PSC. Coal seams can be found very near the surface in some areas of Suban. Surface coal seams can pose risks to pipelines that pass through or near. This Paper outlines a method for identifying pipeline and facility risks as a result of proximal coal seams and actions that can be taken to minimize those risks.Underground pipelines that operate beneath or proximal to coal seams are at risk because of the possibility of spontaneous combustion of the seams and sulfuric acid corrosion due to leaching. The purpose of preparing a comprehensive coal seam geological map and soil composition study is to provide data necessary to quantify the risk of an underground pipeline surrounded by coal that can spontaneously combust. After a risk assessment is conducted, risks can be mitigated so that a proper pipeline design can be engineered that avoids the problems associated with installing a pipeline through shallow coal seams. The study methodology included coal distribution mapping, field investigation of coal seam affects on soil properties, and laboratory analysis. The Suban area coal seams have spontaneous combustion properties that increase the risk of fire and sulfuric acid corrosion due to reduced soil acidity during rainy seasons. Some underground pipelines are at high risk as a result of overlying or encompassing coal seams and require further action to reduce those risks. Possible actions to mitigate risk include: lifting the pipeline above ground, installing casing outside the pipeline, conducting soil treatment. In summary, underground pipelines which run through coal seam areas are at risk of fire and corrosive environments due to low pH conditions. Failure to conduct risk assessment studies could lead to loss of production and equipment.