Carbon Capture Pipeline Transport​

Once the carbon capture process removes CO₂ gas from the source, it is usually liquified under compression at low temperature and pumped through networks of pipelines and valves so that it can be stored underground or used in other chemical processes downstream. To keep the CO₂ stable in its liquid phase for long distance transport, it must be kept under constant pressure, which requires compressors at stages along the pipelines. 

Because carbon dioxide is corrosive to steel, the integrity of pipelines must be constantly monitored and maintained to avoid releasing CO₂ into the atmosphere, defeating the entire purpose of carbon capture. At the same time, because liquid CO₂ is transported under such high pressure, all valves and other final control systems must operate reliably at all points along the pipeline infrastructure without leaking, or again, the value of carbon capture is easily lost. Compressors, like all rotating equipment, are prone to failure if not properly monitored and maintained, which can disrupt flow through the network and lead to containment losses.

Also, with liquefaction, water content in CO₂ can lead to leaks and must be carefully controlled.  

Being able to detect and localize pipeline leaks in real time enables operators to address the issue quicker, limiting emissions. Automation solutions allow pipeline operators to understand the impact of corrosion and maintain a leak-free process by continuously monitoring wall thickness across pipes using wireless ultrasonic sensors. Real-time monitoring and alarm solutions quickly identify leaks and ruptures, and advanced data management tools and dashboards aggregate disparate pipeline and asset integrity-related information, which helps identify issues and improves risk modeling. 

Reliable high-pressure valves with superior sealing and packing of potential leak points are used to minimize fugitive emissions, while optimized digital valve solutions ensure stable flow to liquefaction compressors, preventing damage from equipment failure and extending asset life. Continuous health monitoring with pervasive sensors and data analytics provides greater visibility into compressor performance, mitigating risk of downtime, reducing maintenance costs and preventing safety and environmental incidents.