WhoshouldIsee Tracks Oil Terminal Pipeline Solution, Takoradi, Ghana - Teconnex Bellows

Oil Terminal Pipeline Solution, Takoradi, Ghana

Sector: Oil & Gas

Background

An oil terminal operator in Ghana contacted us for a pipeline solution for a new oil terminal at Takoradi. At the time, bunker fuel was being delivered to ships by road tank wagons (RTWs) or by barge. This primarily supplied marine gasoil (MGO) to offshore oil and gas vessels. 

The fishing harbour in Tema has a 300-metre pipeline for bunkering vessels with a draft of up to 7.5 metres. However, the main port at Tema had no pipeline facilities. Most inshore bunkering operations relied on three storage tanks, with a total capacity of 2,400 cubic metres. This limited storage meant they couldn’t provide a full bunkering service or offer the full range of fuels. 

Challenge

The main challenge was to design and implement a pipeline and storage solution to: 

  • Increase bunker fuel storage capacity. 
  • Deliver fuel efficiently to larger vessels at the main harbour jetties. 
  • Overcome the limitations of existing infrastructure and delivery methods.

Solution

We proposed and delivered a complete upgrade to the terminal’s infrastructure: 

  • New Storage Tanks: Two 5,000 cubic meter tanks to increase fuel storage capacity. 
  • New Pipeline: A 450mm NB diameter pipeline was installed, running to the main harbour jetties. Loading arms were added to service bigger vessels dedicated to bunkering. 
  • Expansion Joints: The system included 47 single axial expansion joints (450mm diameter), supplied by Bellows Technology. These joints vary in length from 550mm to 1,450mm and are rated for 16 bar pressure. 
  • Anchoring & Support: Comprehensive fixtures and anchoring recommendations were given to support the pipeline and prevent movement, twisting, or failure. 

Technical Data 

  • Type: Single Axial Expansion Joint
  • Media: Bitumen
  • Quantity: 47
  • Design Temperature: 200°C
  • Cycle Life: > 1000 Cycles
  • Material: 316 Stainless Steel
  • Testing: Hydro testing
  • Pressure: 16 Bar

Results

This solution boosted the terminal’s fuel storage and delivery capacity. It now supports a wider range of vessels at Takoradi port, solving previous issues caused by limited infrastructure and storage.