Vital Components in High Demand

Established in the early 1990s through the collaboration of the Russian, Kazakhstani, and Omani governments, the Caspian Pipeline Consortium was tasked with the important job of building a dedicated pipeline from oil-producing Kazakhstan to export routes in the Black Sea. The successful involvement of eight production companies in the project—including industry giants such as Chevron, Shell and ExxonMobil —helped finance the initial construction cost of $2.67 billion. Also, previously unused pipeline assets from the Russian Federation were put to use by the CPC with a value of close to $300 million.
For over a decade, since the first oil being loaded onto a tanker successfully in the fall of 2001 and regular operations beginning in 2003, the CPC has stood a testament to public and private partnership, as shares were divided equally between the three governments and the eight companies. To maintain this success, however, the Caspian Pipeline Consortium relies on experts from a range of fields to keep the oil flowing. AUMA contributed a vital component to the CPC’s efforts.
EXPLOSION-PROOF ACTUATORS
Over 700 explosion-proof actuators, including controls, and 200 gearboxes have been supplied by AUMA to support the Caspian Pipeline Consortium. AUMA GHT 360.2 gearboxes, with torques up to 50,000 Nm, were supplied to support the operation of the large valves incorporated into the pipelines, which are designed for a temperature range from -36.4 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit (-38 to 50 degrees Celsius).
AUMA explosion-proof actuators use a “plug-in” type electrical connection. This applies to both power supply and signal cables. The wiring made during installation remains undisturbed, even if the actuator has to be disconnected from the mains or the DCS—for example, for maintenance purposes. The actuator can be quickly reconnected and wiring errors are avoided. Explosion-proof connections are always double sealed. The flameproof enclosure inside the actuator remains intact even after removing the plug cover.
AUMA Priwody, which is centred in Moscow, represented the actuator manufacturer locally to support the CPC contract. Working with Tyazhpromarmatura, Russia’s leading producer of oil and gas valves, AUMA quoted a competitive technical actuation solution, which matched the customer’s precise requirements and succeeded in replacing the incumbent actuator supplier.
Main reasons cited by CPC for choosing AUMA were the company’s proven reputation, easy commissioning, and setting of its devices, immediate responses to requests and its excellent service center. The CPC project is one of the most significant pipeline plans supported by AUMA. It is an excellent example of the cooperation of the actuator manufacturer and the valve supplier.

THE ACTUATOR SPECIALISTS
As this project is a major international crude oil transportation initiative that involves Russia and Kazakhstan plus leading oil and gas companies and will facilitate transportation of oil from the Caspian field to the Black Sea, the choice of AUMA explosion-proof actuators is a testament to their position as actuator specialists.
In a world where industrial processes have become increasingly complex, AUMA’s actuation technology caters for a multitude of valve control requirements in a wide range of international applications. The company rises to this challenge producing tailored solutions designed to meet the precise requirements of schemes, and varying environmental conditions.
To this end, you have to know your markets. Thinking globally means acting regionally. A comprehensive worldwide sales and service network ensures that there is a competent local contact for every customer. Since 1964, AUMA has established a leading brand in the field of modular electric actuation. It is testimony to the expertise and dedication of their global workforce that reliability, innovation, and service are concepts that are closely linked with the AUMA name. ■
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For More Information

AUMA is a leading manufacturer and global supplier of modular electric actuators. For more information, visit www.auma.com.