Forward flow achieved at Pump Station 4

At approximately 11:15 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, an important milestone in Alyeska’s Electrification and Automation (E&A) project was reached as forward flow was achieved at Pump Station 4. With little fanfare but lots of anticipation, the discharge valve on the new piping was opened at Pump Station 4, and controllers at the Operation Control Center in Anchorage diverted the flow of crude through the new pump and south out of Pump Station 4.

The new equipment will allow Alyeska to increase operational efficiency, handle variable throughput, improve remote operations, and monitor equipment for problems.

“Hundreds of dedicated employees worked long hours to construct and ensure a safe and smooth transition to the new equipment,” said Mike Joynor, Senior Vice President for Pipeline, Oil Movements and Engineering. “Given the complexity of the project and the limited work area available, the project safety record is outstanding.  

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