Quick Booster Access 500
An unparalleled technology in Europe for this size equipment, Quick Booster Access 500 (QBA 500), developed by GRTgaz, enables the transfer of gas from one point in the network to another during maintenance work. Patrick Prunet, Innovative Projects Manager at the GRTgaz RICE Department, reveals to us the advantages this solution offers.
What is the purpose of Quick Booster Access 500?
Patrick Prunet (P.P) : At a time when limiting methane emissions has become of crucial importance for the climate and a major strategic focus for energy players, GRTgaz is upgrading its maintenance practices, with the development of an innovative and virtuous solution: QBA 500. This technology, developed in partnership with Eiffage Métal, makes it possible to suck gas from one structure and channel it to a service structure, without releasing it into the atmosphere.
How does it work?
P. P. : Three main operations need to be carried out during maintenance on the gas network: once the valves of the pipeline under inspection have been closed, the section is emptied by suction; the gas is then compressed using a mobile compressor and reinjected via flexible pipes upstream or downstream from the cut-off pipeline. The time needed for each of these stages determines the network downtime.
What are the technology’s benefits?
P. P. : In the context of maintenance operations on the transmission network, QBA offers the advantage of reducing methane emissions and being easy to install.
How is QBA seen by your customers?
P. P. : As extremely attractive! With the ecological transition underway and new regulatory deadlines for methane emissions approaching, gas transporters and gas storage companies are turning to innovative technologies to limit the gas emissions that can result from their maintenance and repair activities.
After successfully testing the QBA 500 on eight GRTgaz sites - six of which will be completed in 2022 - we launched its commercialization this autumn with our European partners, via service contracts or the sale of units. Other fields of application for the QBA 500 are currently being studied, particularly in connection with the injection of biomethane into the national transmission system. The QBA 500 is a very promising solution -- what's more, at the heart of our sustainable development approach!