Chevron is continuing works on repairing heat exchangers at the first Gorgon train in Australia after finding similar issues that closed the plant’s second production unit.
To remind, Chevron brought back online the second train at its 15.6 mtpa LNG facility on Barrow Island in November after months of repairs related to “weld quality issues” in propane heat exchangers.
Following the restart, Chevron said it would shut down the first LNG train for inspections and potential repairs.
“Repairs to propane heat exchangers on Gorgon LNG Train 1 are underway following the discovery of weld quality issues during inspections,” a Chevron spokesman said in an emailed statement to LNG Prime on Wednesday.
“Appropriate safety measures are in place, with insights from Train 2 repairs contributing to a more effective inspection and repair program,” the spokesman said.
Additionally, he said that the second and third unit remain operational and Chevron continues to deliver LNG to customers and gas to the Western Australian domestic market.
Following the completion of repairs on the first train, Chevron plans to shut down the third unit for inspections as well.
“We remain aligned with the regulator on maintaining the safety of our workforce and operating facilities,” the spokesman said.
The Gorgon development is one of the world’s largest natural gas projects with a price tag of about $54 billion.
The plant liquefies gas coming from two offshore fields – Gorgon and Jansz-Io.
The first LNG cargo departed Barrow Island in March 2016 followed by gas supply to the domestic market in December.
Chevron Australia operates the project with a 47.3% share while ExxonMobil and Shell have a 25% stake, each.
Japan’s Osaka Gas, Tokyo Gas, and JERA own the remaining stakes in Gorgon.
