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Problems Associated With Pipeline Breakage in Ecuador’s Amazon Region Reduce Production in The Country

Written by Roberta Souza
Published on 13/04/2020 at 11:48
equador, ruptura oleoduto, amazônica
equador, ruptura oleoduto, amazônica
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Due to a landslide, a pipeline ruptured in the Amazon region of Ecuador. This incident continues to cause a lot of headaches for local authorities.

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With the suspension of operations in the Trans-Ecuadorian Pipeline System (SOTE), the Private Heavy Pipeline (OCP) Ecuador and the Shushufindi-Quito Pipeline make it impossible to continue pumping oil to the ports.

The Minister of Energy, René Ortiz, said that “The suspension of operations in the Amazon oil fields will be gradual, as the existing supply tanks fill up. Today, the contracts fall under force majeure. How to channel the suspension is being studied immediately. International buyers are already aware of the situation.”

The ruptured pipeline is about one and a half kilometers long, through which more than 500,000 barrels circulate. The flow of oil will only be regularized when the three pipelines are repaired. However, although it was initially announced that the process would take three weeks, Minister Ortiz believes it could take longer, between one and a half and two months at least: “It could be more. Geological studies are necessary to establish variations in the layout of the three systems. In addition, permits and environmental rights need to be obtained.”

Additionally, there was another problem at the Fluid Catalytic Cracking Unit (FCC) of the Esmeraldas Refinery, in the main compressor. Due to a lack of electricity, damages compromised its operation and repairs will take several weeks.

“We cannot produce fuels for internal consumption. Fortunately, the quarantine has significantly decreased demand by about 83%. Therefore, there is no risk of internal shortages because we have a sufficient volume of reserves,” he concluded.

Roberta Souza

Author for the Click Petróleo e Gás portal since 2019, responsible for publishing over 8,000 articles that have garnered millions of views, combining technical expertise, clarity, and engagement to inform and connect readers. A Petroleum Engineer with a postgraduate degree in Industrial Unit Commissioning, I also bring practical experience and background in the agribusiness sector, which broadens my perspective and versatility in producing specialized content. I develop content topics, disseminate job opportunities, and create advertising materials tailored for the industry audience. For content suggestions, job vacancy promotion, or advertising proposals, please contact via email: santizatagpc@gmail.com. We do not accept resumes

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