When the #9 pond was no longer needed, the plant decided to decommission it. Texas law states the chloride deposits in the pond would have to be reduced to an acceptable level before capping the pond. They had two choices; either truck the material to Nebraska, the only place that would accept the material, or try and ‘wash’ the chloride from the pond sediment. They approached MERSINO to see if it was even practical to attempt the wash. After studying the grain analysis of the pond sediment, MERSINO’s experts determined it was indeed possible.
MERSINO performed a pilot run on one of the corners of the pond in May 2016 to see if we could meet the acceptable levels of chloride. Upon completion of the test, it was determined that MERSINO was successful and met the levels set forth by the state. Once the test was determined a success, Fluor granted MERSINO the contract extension to complete the entire pond.
Methodology/Challenges
MERSINO installed 700 wellpoints using the high pressure water method in the bed of the existing pond. Due to the angle of the slope leading into the pond, all the pipe, points and filter material had to be carried in and installed by hand. MERSINO had to use the high pressure water installation method because we were unable to get larger equipment into the pond. The inability to use heavy equipment made for some long days. And due to the extreme heat and humidity experienced in the gulf region of Texas, an air conditioned trailer and coolers of water were required. Along with the heat we experienced two hurricanes, alligators, and rattlesnakes, making for difficult working conditions. The project experienced some delays due to high volumes of rain, but has now been decommissioned and is awaiting final results of testing for compliance with Texas regulations.
Project Contact:
Bill Bottomley, Project Manager
Fluor Federal Petroleum
Operations, LLC
504-734-4304
Project Value:
$1.72 Million
