STUDENT INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME (SIWES)

A TECHINCAL REPORT

UNDERTAKEN AT

NIGERIAN NATIONAL PETROLEUM CORPORATION DEPOT, SULEJA, NIGER

STATE.

BY

OYELADE OLUWABUKOYE ENOCH

(COT/2032/2016)

SUBMITTED TO

THE DEPARTMENT OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING,

COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY,
FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM RESOURCES, EFFURUN

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF

ENGINEERING (B.ENG.), CHEMICAL ENGINEERING,

FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM RESOURCES, EFFURUN, DELTA STATE,

NIGERIA

SEPTEMBER, 2021.

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 CERTIFICATION

_______________________ __________________
Oyelade Oluwabukoye Enoch Date
(IT Student)

_______________________ __________________

Dr. Jasper Agbakwuru Date

(IT Supervisor)

DEDICATION
Firstly, to the Almighty, who has kept me all through my education till this point, and given me
this project to gracefully conclude the pursuit of my Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering.
To my family, for their unflinching love and support.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I am extremely grateful to first of all God Almighty for His grace and strength; The
management and staffs of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Depot, Suleja, Niger
State, most especially the Human Resource Manager for granting me the opportunity to
undergo an intensive industrial training in the establishment. I would also like to express my
profound appreciation to the entire staff of the Maintenance Department, The Maintenance
Superintendents; The Operations Team Lead, Engr. Sadiq Mohammed; The Maintenance
Supervisors, Engr. Abdullahi Dahiru Yusuf and Engr. Adejoh Wisdom for their detailed

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explanations of some basic equipment in the facility; My ever proficient Team Leads Engr.
Adeyemi Wilson and Engr. Godwin Emmanuel for their tutor and guidance during the
course of this training; My motivational Mr. Chukwu Basil, Mrs. Enemoh Mesio and Mrs.
Jessica for their support, love and care. My Appreciation also goes to my I.T. colleagues; I
say - God bless you and wish you success in your future endeavors.

ABSTRACT
The report is aimed at giving a concise description of activities carried out during my five
months’ period of SIWES attachment at NATIONAL PETROLEUM CORPORATION
DEPOT, SULEJA, NIGER STATE. The report focuses on the major working principles of
the Depot Operations, the facilities in the Terminals, the laboratory analysis and also safety
precautions taken while carrying out daily operations at the Terminals. There are four (4)
chapters in this report. The first chapter is an introduction of SIWES while the second
chapter discusses the establishment of attachment. The third chapter describes the work
carried out and the experienced gained during the course of training. Lastly, the fourth
chapter discusses conclusions on the program and recommendation for the improvement of
the scheme.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

COVER PAGE………………………………………………………………………………………i
CERTIFICATION..............................................................................................................................ii

DEDICATION..................................................................................................................................iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS...............................................................................................................iv

ABSTRACT.......................................................................................................................................v

TABLE OF CONTENTS..................................................................................................................vi

LISTS OF FIGURES.........................................................................................................................ix

CHAPTER ONE.................................................................................................................................1

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THE STUDENTS INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME (SIWES)...............................1

1.0 Introduction...................................................................................................................................1

1.1 Parties involved in the SIWES Programme..................................................................................1

1.2 Importance of SIWES...................................................................................................................2

1.3 Objectives of SIWES....................................................................................................................2

1.4 Brief history of NNPC and PPMC................................................................................................3

1.5 Organizational Structure...............................................................................................................4

1.6 Operations Division Organogram.................................................................................................5

1.7 Depot Organogram.......................................................................................................................6

CHAPTER TWO................................................................................................................................7

INTRODUCTION TO CRUDE OIL AND PETROLEUM PRODUCTS.........................................7

2.0 Crude Oil......................................................................................................................................7

2.1 Petroleum Products.......................................................................................................................8

2.2 Oil Movement...............................................................................................................................9

2.2.1 Crude Oil Supply...................................................................................................................9

2.2.2 Products Supply.....................................................................................................................9

2.3 Facilities that aid Oil Movement................................................................................................10

2.3.1 Pipelines...............................................................................................................................10

2.3.1.1 Crude Oil Pipelines.......................................................................................................10

2.3.1.2 Refined Products Pipelines...........................................................................................11

2.3.1.3 Types by Transport Function........................................................................................11

2.3.2. Flow Stations.......................................................................................................................12

2.3.3 Vessels.................................................................................................................................12

2.3.4 Terminals.............................................................................................................................12

2.3.5 Jetties....................................................................................................................................12

2.3.6 Depots..................................................................................................................................12

2.3.7 Pump Station........................................................................................................................12

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 2.3.8 Filling Stations.....................................................................................................................13

2.3.9 Single Point Mooring (SPM)...............................................................................................13

2.3.10 Radio Room /Telecommunication.....................................................................................13

CHAPTER 3.....................................................................................................................................14

WORK EXPERIENCE.....................................................................................................................14

3.0 Introduction.................................................................................................................................14

3.1 Depot Operations........................................................................................................................14

3.2 System Scheduling......................................................................................................................15

3.3 Schematic Process Flow Diagram for Depot Operations...........................................................16

3.4 Control Room Operations...........................................................................................................16

3.4.1 The Central Control Room...................................................................................................16

3.5 Product Reception.......................................................................................................................18

3.6 Flow Metering............................................................................................................................19

3.7 Storage Tanks.............................................................................................................................19

3.8 Loading Operations....................................................................................................................20

3.9 Interface Monitoring...................................................................................................................21

3.10 Quality Control Laboratory......................................................................................................22

3.10.1 Specimen Collection..........................................................................................................22

3.10.2 Quality Control Test...........................................................................................................22

3.10.2.1 Determination of Temperature...................................................................................22

3.10.2.2 Determination of Density...........................................................................................23

3.10.2.3 Determination of Flash Point......................................................................................24

3.10.2.4 Flash Point Test for DPK............................................................................................26

3.10.2.5 Determination of PMS Distillation.............................................................................27

3.10.2.6 Quality Control Certificate.........................................................................................28

3.11 Pipeline Maintenance................................................................................................................29

CHAPTER FOUR............................................................................................................................30

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SUMMARY......................................................................................................................................30

4.1 Problems Encountered................................................................................................................30

4.2 Relevance of the SIWES Program..............................................................................................30

4.3 Recommendations.......................................................................................................................30

4.3.1 Advice to Future Participants...............................................................................................31

4.3.2 Advice to the SIWES Coordinators.....................................................................................31

4.2 Conclusion..................................................................................................................................31

REFERENCES.................................................................................................................................32

LISTS OF FIGURES
Fig. 1.0: The Operations Division Organogram

Fig. 1.1: The Depot Organogram

Fig. 3.0: A Schematic Process Flow Diagram for the Depot Operations

Fig. 3.1: The Depot Control Panel - Showing Process indicators for all field equipment.

Fig. 3.2: Depot Storage Tanks

Fig. 3.3: Loading Gantry

Fig. 3.4: Series of Hydrometers

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Fig. 3.5: Pensky Martens Flash Point Tester

Fig. 3.6: Tag-Closed Cup Flash Point Tester

Fig. 3.7: Petroleum Product Distillation Tester

CHAPTER ONE

THE STUDENTS INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME (SIWES)

1.0 Introduction
The student industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) was established by the industrial
Training Fund in (ITF) 1973 to enable students of tertiary institution have basic technical
knowledge of industrial works base on their course of study before the completion of their program
in their respective institutions. The scheme was designed to expose students to industrial
environment and enable them develop occupational competencies so that they can readily
contribute their quota to national economic and technological development after graduation.
The Student Industrial Work-Experience Scheme (SIWES) is a planned and supervised training
intervention based on stated and specific learning and career objectives, and geared towards
developing the occupational competencies of the participants. It is a programme required to be
undertaken by all students of tertiary institutions in Nigeria pursuing courses in “specialized
engineering, technical, business, applied sciences and applied arts” (ITF, 2004a).

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Industrial training fund in its policy statement No.1, published in 1973, inserted a clause dealing
with the issue of practical skills among locally trained professionals. Section 15 of the policy
statement states inter-alia, that “Great emphasis will be placed on assisting certain products of
post-secondary school system to adopt or orientate easily to their possible post graduate job
environment.
The scheme exposes students to industry based skills necessary for a smooth transition from
classroom to the world of work. It affords student of tertiary institutions the opportunity of being
familiarized exposed to the needed experience in handling machinery and equipment which are not
available in the education institute.

1.1 Parties involved in the SIWES Programme

 Educational Institutions: The Institution are expected to prepare their student for
industrial attachment orientation program immediately before commencement of
attachments; pay adequate and regular visit to students during attachment with a view
to providing effective supervision and guidance; and examine students’ practical
assignment and sign their logbooks during such visits by the institution based
supervisor. They are also expected to submit returns of disbursement of funds in
received in respect of SIWES to the ITF, complete and return to the ITF at the end of
the program evaluation from (ITF FORM 8) in respect of all students who
participated in the scheme.

 Employers: The employer are to work out relevant attachment programs with
institutions; ensuring that attachment programs expose student to real life working
situations; and inspect and countersign student’s logbooks on weekly basis and
comment where necessary. They are to pay students allowances and when due for
every month complete and submit to the ITF monthly returns of actual amount of
disbursed, and complete the end of the program evaluation form (ITF FORM 8) in
respect of all students who served in the organization.

 Students: As for students on attachment, they are expected to keep standard

logbooks where they record training activities and other assignments before
submitting to ITF for approval.

 National University Commission: The NUC is expected to evolve minimum

practical training program for supervision of industrial attachment, vet all program

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 and placement lists submitted by Institutions before resubmitting them to the ITF for
approval.

1.2 Importance of SIWES

SIWES have a lot of importance attached to it which includes;

 It helps to improve the quality of skilled manpower of the students. The scheme provides a
forum for industries to evaluate prospective employers and gives feedback to institutions.
 The scheme gives students practical knowledge of course of study.
 SIWES programme exposes students to real life situation, thus supplementing the
theoretical lesson.
 SIWES programme establish a close collaboration between institutions and industries, a
factor which is essential for preparing people for the workforce.

1.3 Objectives of SIWES

Specifically, the objectives of Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) are;
 To provide an avenue for students in institution of higher learning to acquire industrial
skills and experience in their course of study.
 To provide students opportunity to apply their knowledge in real work (situation thereby
bridging the gap between college work and actual practice).
 To expose students to work methods and techniques in handling equipment and machinery,
that may not be available in educational institutions.
 To prepare students for the working situations they are to meet after graduation.
 Enlist and strengthen employers’ involvement in the entire educational process of preparing
university graduates for employment in the industry.

1.4 Brief history of NNPC and PPMC

The Nigerian National petroleum corporation (NNPC) was established on 1st April, 1977 under
the statutory instrument Decree No. 33 of same year by the merger of Nigerian National Oil
Company (NNOC) and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources in order to create a virile oil agency
as well as optimize the scarce human and infrastructural resources available to the government.
The formation of this establishment led to a rapid expansion of so many oil and Gas industries
such as Shell Petroleum Development Company, MOBIL, Texaco and GULF.

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In addition to its exploration activities, the Corporation was given powers and operational
interests in refining, petrochemicals and products transportation as well as marketing. Between
1978 and 1989, NNPC constructed refineries in Warri, Kaduna and Port Harcourt and took over
the 35,000-barrel Shell Refinery established in Port Harcourt in 1965.
In 1988, the NNPC was commercialized into 11 strategic business units, covering the entire
spectrum of oil industry operations: exploration and production, gas development, refining,
distribution, petrochemicals, engineering, and commercial investments. Currently, the subsidiary
companies include;

 Pipelines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC)

 National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS)
 Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC)
 The Nigerian Gas Company (NGC)
 Integrated Data Services Limited (IDSL)
 National Engineering and Technical Company Limited (NETCO)
 Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited (WRPC)
 Kaduna Refinery and Petrochemical Co. Limited (KRPC)
 Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited (PHRC)

In addition to these subsidiaries, the industry is also regulated by the Department of Petroleum
Resources (DPR), a department within the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. The DPR ensures
compliance with industry regulations; processes applications for licenses, leases and permits,
establishes and enforces environmental regulations. The DPR, and NAPIMS, play a very crucial
role in the day to day activities throughout the industry.

In March, 1988, NNPC saw a need for reorganization for the purpose of proper capitalization and
commercialization, and that was when the Pipelines and Product Marketing Company (PPMC) was
created to be directly responsible for the comparative ease with which petroleum products are
sourced and distributed to all parts of the country, at a uniform price.
PPMC was set up as a subsidiary and strategic business unit of the Nigerian National Petroleum
Corporation (NNPC). PPMC is run in conformity with the management culture of total quality in
pursuant to the directive of the parent corporation the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation
(NNPC) and she is the critical interface between NNPC and the Nigerian public.

VISION STATEMENT

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To be a dominant supplier of petroleum product within and outside the country.

MISSION STATEMENT

 Transportation of Crude Oil to the refineries

 Evacuation of the refined products from the refineries
 Adequate Supply of Petroleum Products to the domestic and export markets
 Sale of special products in the domestic market
 Provision of excellent Customer Service
 Safe operations at minimal cost

1.5 Organizational Structure

Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Depot, Suleja, is structured to operate under a Board of
Directors headed by a nonexecutive Chairman. The Company is daily managed by a Chief
Executive Officer, the Managing Director who is assisted by four Executive Directors namely;
Executive Director Operations, Executive Director Services, Executive Director Commercial and
Executive Director Finance and Accounts.

1.6 Operations Division Organogram

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
OPERATIONS

MANAGER, ENGR & TECH MANAGER, MAINTENANCE

SERVICES

MANAGER, FIRE SAFETY &

MANAGER, OMQC ENVIRONENT

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AREA MANAGERS
MOSIMI
PORT HARCOURT
Fig. 1.0: The Operations Division Organogram

1.7 Depot Organogram

Deputy Mgr
Depot

Stock Officer Secretary

Fire & Safety Supt.

Supt. Mtce Supt. Ops Supt. Sales Supt. Admin
Officer Accounts

Fig. 1.1: The Depot Organogram

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 CHAPTER TWO

INTRODUCTION TO CRUDE OIL AND PETROLEUM PRODUCTS

2.0 Crude Oil

Petroleum etymologically means rock oil. It is natural organic materials composed principally of
hydrocarbons which occur in the gaseous or liquid state in geographical traps. The liquid part
obtained after the removal of dissolved gas is commonly referred to as crude petroleum or crude
oil or simply crude.
Crude oil is a naturally occurring mixture, consisting predominantly of hydrocarbons, Sulphur,
Nitrogen and Oxygen derivatives of hydrocarbons, which is removed from the earth in a liquid
state. Crude oil is commonly accompanied by varying quantities of extraneous substances such as
metals, mostly in small quantities, water, inorganic matter and gas. The removal of such
extraneous substances alone does not change the status of the mixture as Crude oil.
Fundamentally, crude oil consists of 84-87wt% carbon, 11-14wt% hydrogen, 0-3wt% Sulphur, 0-
2wt% oxygen, 0-0.6wt% nitrogen and metals ranging from 0-0.14wt% or 0-100ppm.
Crude oil ranges widely in their physical and chemical properties. Crude Oil is brownish (light oils
having large amounts of distillates) to brownish black (heavy oils) in colour. Heavy oils have an
unpleasant odour due to the high Sulphur content, while the light crudes have pleasant aromatic
like smell. Though general, it is not always true. Data for a considerable number of crude oils

15
indicate the specific gravities between 0.73 and 1.02; most crudes having specific gravities lying
between 0.80 and 0.95. These values are for surface conditions of temperature and pressure. The
kinematic viscosities vary from 0.7 to 1300 cSt at 37.8 oC; the bulk of the values being in the range
of 2.3-23 cSt. Typically, Crude oil with high Sulphur content is termed as Sour Crude. On the
other hand, Crude oils with low Sulphur content are termed as Sweet Crude.
In Nigerian the different types of crude we have includes; Bonny Light, Escravos Light (ESLT)
and Ughelli Blend (UB) and they are sweet and light crudes.
Crude oil occurs in many difference parts of the world and its composition varies according to its
source.

2.1 Petroleum Products

Petroleum products are useful materials derived from crude oil as it is processed in oil refineries.
The following are the Major products consumed in Nigeria;

 Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)

PMS popularly called petrol in this part of the world or gasoline is one of the most widely used
petroleum products. It is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons produced by mixing fractions
obtained from the distillation of crude oil with brand-specific additives to improve performance.
Under normal conditions, it is a volatile liquid with a characteristic odour. It is mainly used as a
fuel for light road vehicles (cars, motorbikes and small vans) and small appliances.

 Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK)

DPK implies Dual Purpose Kerosene but generally known as Nigeria is one of the fractional
distillates of crude is derived through refining process. Technically, it refers to two different
products i.e. Household kerosene (HHK) popularly known as kerosene is used for cooking and
other industrial use. While Aviation Turbine kerosene (ATK) otherwise known as Jet A1 is used
in the aviation industry.
Kerosene is a liquid fuel, similar in composition to diesel, obtained from the distillation of crude
oil. Kerosene is produced on an industrial scale by distilling crude oil in a process similar to that
used to produce diesel or petrol.

 Automotive Gas Oil (AGO)

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AGO popularly known as diesel is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons produced by mixing
fractions obtained in the mid- boiling range from the distillation and processing of Crude oil with
brand-specific additives to improve performance. Under normal conditions it is a liquid with a
characteristic odour. Diesel is produced by blending straight-run middle distillates (minimum
40%) with varying proportions of straight-run gas oil, light vacuum distillates, light thermally-
cracked distillates and light catalytically-cracked distillate.
AGO (Diesel) is mainly used as a fuel for heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks and buses and light-
duty vehicles, such as Vans and passenger cars. Although other forms of transport (such as ships
and trains) and electricity generators also use certain types of diesel. It is generally used as fuel for
heavy fuel oil.
2.2 Oil Movement

2.2.1 Crude Oil Supply

Hydrocarbons in Nigeria are produced from oil and gas wells all over the Niger delta, both on land,
in the swamp and offshore, in shallow and deep waters. From onshore and shallow offshore wells,
the liquids are pumped through pipelines to the Oil Terminals. The Oil is stored in tanks before
being pumped through fiscal meters into an Oil Tanker for export. Some of the dry oil is pumped
through another fiscal meter to the Refineries where it is refined into products.
Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC) and Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical
Company (KRPC) receive their crude oil from the Chevron Escravos Terminal and the Shell
Ughelli Quality Control Centre. For Port Harcourt Refinery, Crude Oil supply is received from the
Shell Bonny Crude Oil Terminal via a 58km pipeline.
Small amounts of sour Crude Oils are imported for use in the Kaduna refinery, as the Nigerian
crude is classified as sweet.

2.2.2 Products Supply

Petroleum products from Nigeria’s refineries at Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna together with
imported products are distributed through PPMC’s pipeline network to depots where the products
are transported by road tankers to the marketers’ outlets. (Include flow diagram i.e. product
distribution).
Nigeria has four domestic refineries; two refineries located at Port Harcourt (PHRC) within the
south eastern region of the Niger river delta, Warri (WRPC) located towards the south western part
of the Niger river delta and Kaduna (KRPC) which is located in north central Nigeria.

17
Both Warri and Port Harcourt refineries are sited close to the large crude oil terminal of Escravos
(into WRPC), and Bonny into (PHRC). Kaduna is situated a considerable distance inland from the
oil fields of the delta region and terminals.
PPMC receives crude oil from the NNPC Corporate Services Unit called National Petroleum
Investments Management Services (NAPIMS). PPMC then supplies the crude oil to the NNPC
local refineries. However, petroleum products are sometimes imported to supplement local
production when the local refineries are unable to process enough for the country’s needs.
Petroleum products which are either imported or refined locally are received by PPMC through
import jetties or refinery depots and distributed through pipelines to depots strategically located all
over the country from where petroleum tankers lift the products to designated retail outlets (Filling
stations).
The company’s main assignment is executed using a network of Petroleum Products Pipelines and
Storage depots strategically located nationwide. The products pipelines have a total length of about
5120 kilometers. The products are moved through the pipelines by pumping using mainline and
booster pumps. A number of pump stations complement pumping of products to desired
destinations.

2.3 Facilities that aid Oil Movement

2.3.1 Pipelines

A complex and carefully choreographed network of pipelines is in place to move the raw materials,
which are mainly crude oils, from where they are produced to where they are processed, and the
refined products from where they are processed to where they are consumed.
Pipeline transport is the transportation of goods through a pipe. Crude petroleum and refined
petroleum product are usually transported through pipelines. Pipelines are generally the most
economical way to transport large quantities of oil, refined oil products or natural gas over land.
Pipelines are the irreplaceable core of the Nigeria petroleum transportation system and hence the
key to meeting petroleum demand. Without oil pipelines, Petroleum products would not reach the
millions of consumers all around the country. The pipelines connect the flow stations, refineries,
depot, pump station, and jetties in a network.

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2.3.1.1 Crude Oil Pipelines

Crude oil gathering lines are normally made from 2-inch to 12-inch pipe. They originate at the
production field tank battery, a collection of smaller tanks, for transport by truck or pipeline to a
gathering station.
The gathering station aggregates crude from many sources, including deliveries by tank truck. It is
normally adjacent to a crude oil main line and has a pump station to inject the crude into the
mainline. Gathering stations may be located at the beginning of a mainline or along the route.
Mainlines are generally 8-inch or more in diameter.
When a gathering station is located along a mainline, often called a trunk line, the crude oil can be
injected into the continuous flow of crude oil as it goes past. If the crude oil is sufficiently different
from that flow, the pipeline can be stopped upstream of the gathering station. A volume of crude
can be pumped in as a separate batch. The batch is then tracked as it moves down the pipeline and
is delivered into separate customers or into segregated tanks at the destination.
Besides gathering stations, mainlines receive crude oil from other main lines, regional storage
facilities, and marine off-loading facilities. Conversely, main lines deliver to the same list of
facilities plus, most importantly, refineries (as in the Warri to Kaduna phase I and II).

2.3.1.2 Refined Products Pipelines

The refined products pipeline value chain begins at refineries and ends at petroleum products
terminals. This is a collection of large tanks located along the pipeline near consumers.
Products move down the pipelines in batches. Sometimes the entire flow of the pipeline is diverted
into a terminal tank, while at the other times only a slipstream moves into the tank.
From the terminal, the petroleum products move to retail outlets or commercial and industrial
consumers in tank trucks or in cars.

2.3.1.3 Types by Transport Function

In general, pipelines can be classified in three categories depending on purpose:

 Gathering pipelines
They are group of smaller interconnected pipelines forming complex networks with the
purpose of bringing crude oil or natural gas from several nearby wells to a treatment plant
or processing facility. In this group, pipelines are usually short, a couple of hundred meters
and with small diameters. Also sub-sea pipelines for collecting product from deep water
production platforms are considered gathering systems.

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  Transportation pipelines
They are mainly long pipes with large diameters, moving products (oil, gas, refined
products) between cities, countries and even continents. These transportation networks
include several compressor stations in gas lines or pump stations for crude and
multiproduct pipelines.
 Distribution pipelines
They are composed of several interconnected pipelines with small diameters, used to take
the products to the final consumer. Some may have feeder lines to distribute gas to homes
and businesses downstream. Pipelines at terminals for distributing products to tanks and
storage facilities are included in this group.

2.3.2. Flow Stations

These facilities are usually located in areas where upstream activities are being carried out. They
are used for the gathering and the transportation of the Crude to three local refineries for refining
through pipeline (Crude lines).

2.3.3 Vessels

These are water transportation facilities of different capacities through which petroleum products
are carried and transmitted in the water ways. They have both Local and international application.
They are usually anchored to the jetty for the discharge of their contents or the Use of Single Point
Mooring (SPM).

2.3.4 Terminals

These are locations built in the high sea and Water ways mainly for exportation/importation of
petroleum products.

2.3.5 Jetties

These are just like bus stops. They are facilities built in high sea and water way through which the
products from vessels are discharged. They have in-built provision through which the content of
the vessels is off-loaded through a pipe which is usually connected to depot.

20
2.3.6 Depots

It is an industrial facility for the storage of oil and products and from which these products are
usually transported to end users or further storage facilities. They are like bus stops on the land
along the pipe, lines. They are made up of Storage tanks and Pumping Machines that makes
product available to local consumers in different geographical locations. The facilities are to ensure
proper distribution and availability of the products at different places for marketing purposes.

2.3.7 Pump Station

They are facilities housing Pumping Equipment for Petroleum products. They are usually built in
the transmission lines to increase the flow pressure or flow rates. They are usually built along the
pipeline when the distance of the flow is far or the topography of the right of way is undulating.
They are always booster pumps to increase the pressure of flow at pump stations. They take care of
changes in pressure along the line flow. Most pumps are driven by electric motors, although diesel
engines or gas turbines may also be used.

2.3.8 Filling Stations

These are mini depots constructed to ensure the availability of the products at the door steps of
consumers. The products are supplied to these stations via tankers or truck the load at main depots.
Both the Mega are minor stations are controlled by PPMC. They can be retaining outlets.

2.3.9 Single Point Mooring (SPM)

SPM is a loading buoy anchored offshore, that serves as a mooring point and interconnection for
tankers loading or offloading gas or liquid products.
This is an alternative provision for the discharge of products from vessels in the water ways, this is
always available in the terminals. It is mainly used in the high sea the pipe is not connected to the
jetty in this case; the discharge pipe of the vessels is connected to the SPM which is neither
connected to the depot or the pipeline. It is used for discharge when the jetty fails because the jetty
discharges faster than the SPM.

2.3.10 Radio Room /Telecommunication

PPMC has a Radio room where all relevant information is collected from all the operational areas
and transmitted appropriately either via e-mail or radio message. She also has telecommunication
gadgets to ensure effective communication in the discharge of duties. These includes: GSM,

21
Landline and Walkie-Talkie. These are used in dissemination of information in the different
departments and sections of the company.

CHAPTER 3

WORK EXPERIENCE

3.0 Introduction
This chapter covers my experience gained at pipelines and products marketing company corporate
headquarters Abuja and Suleja Depot. The report covers specifically operations of the Oil
Movement and Quality Control department, which is a department under Pipelines and Products
Marketing Company charged with the responsibility of monitoring the safe movement of crude and
petroleum products and ensuring the quality of these products, with keen attention on depot
operations and the source of the products and its distribution to the final consumer. It is a
comprehensive summary of all that I learnt and was involved in during my SIWES programme at
Suleja Depot, Niger State. The entire pipeline operation begins with the movement of crude from
flow stations in the Niger-delta, to the refineries. The product lines are many and about the most
numerous in the system. After Crude Oil movement, we now see product movement. Ideally,
product movement would emanate from refineries to the depots, but in our case, some reasonable
volume of it comes from the jetties, representing the imported fraction of the daily consumption of
the nation.

3.1 Depot Operations

An oil depot as earlier explained is an industrial facility for the storage of oil and/or petroleum
products and from which these products are usually transported to end users or further storage
facilities. It is (sometimes called a tank farm, installation or oil terminal). An oil depot typically
has tankage, either above ground or underground, and gantries for the discharge of products into
road tankers or pipelines.
Oil depots are usually situated close to oil refineries or in locations where marine tankers
containing products can discharge their cargo. Some depots are attached to pipelines from which

22
they draw their supplies and depots can also be fed by rail, by barge and by road tanker (sometimes
known as "bridging").
Most oil depots have road tankers operating from their grounds and these vehicles transport
products to petrol stations or other users.
In oil depot there is no processing or other transformation on site. The products which reach the
depot are in their final form and if after necessary test are carried out in the depot laboratory to
ensure that the products meet specification that is on-Spec, it is then suitable for delivery to
customers.
At Suleja depot, there is a Chemical laboratory where day to day Quality Control test are carried
out and a Control room where oil movement is monitored. This enables the Quality Control
laboratory chemist to maintain high quality product delivery for which are known as PMS, AGO
and DPK. This enables all the numerous customers and the consumer find solace in dealing with
the corporation as a result of the quality product and services ensured. The activities carried are
based on quality control and monitoring of petroleum product as mentioned above. The party of
petroleum product carried out in quality control laboratory are basically PMS, the distillation
profile of PMS, density test and the temperature, AGO, the flash point of AGO, density test and
temperature test, as well as DPK, and the interface monitoring of these petroleum products. These
are carried out to ensure quality of the petroleum product. Quality control of petroleum product is a
necessity if the products are to give satisfactory performance to the customers. Keeping in view the
usefulness of each product for specific purpose, standard organizations have drafted methods of
tests and specification.

3.2 System Scheduling

Here accurate current information on all movements and reports from all the operational areas are
collected from the Radio room and transmitted to the system schedulers who are in charge of
preparing schedules for the department and top management decisions. These reports are further
used to prepare the following reports using Microsoft Excel. The reports prepared include:

 Daily Loading and Bridging Reports: This report shows the products loaded in all the
operational areas and the number of trucks loaded per day. While the Bridging report
shows the number of trucks that was used to transport products to other regions and the
amount loaded per day.

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  Tank Status Report: This report just as the name implies shows the maximum volume of
the tank, the dead stock i.e. the stock that is not lift-able and must be left in the tank, the
pump-able stock, the current tank level and current volume of products in the storage tanks.
 Snapshot of the Refinery: This report is on the activities of the refineries. It shows their
plant situation, the different crude type and finished products; their stock, ullage i.e. the
empty space in the tank, days sufficiency and ullage days.
 Nationwide Report: This report shows the available product stock nationwide, their volume
and days sufficiency, the national average daily consumption and the national day’s
sufficiency.
 Pumping Performance: This report shows the product pumped and receipt in all the
operational areas. It describes the pumping performance of lines and their down time i.e.
the period of inactiveness or a period when the pumps are on shutdown.
 Two-page Report: This report is basically on PPMC’S products stock/loading nationwide.
It also shows the jetty operations, depot stock, pumping operations, line fills, daily bridging
report and private depot operations.

3.3 Schematic Process Flow Diagram for Depot Operations

Fig. 3.0: A Schematic Process Flow Diagram for the Depot Operations

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3.4 Control Room Operations
3.4.1 The Central Control Room

In order that proper overall planning for the movement of products from source depot to
distribution depot can be achieved, it is necessary to establish a common Centre where all relevant
information is collected and processed and from which the necessary instructions and/or direct
commands emanate. In the case of the product pipelines complex the natural choice for such a
Centre is the central control room located at depots.
Pipelines are controlled and operated remotely, from what is usually known as The Central Control
Room. Pipeline employees through the control panel control the pumps and other aspects of
pipeline operations. The control panel/board is such that return real-time information about the rate
of flow, the pressure, the speed and other characteristics.
All Field Operations and Processes are Monitored and Controlled from the Control Room; These
include amongst others;

 Pump Controls

 Tankage activities

 Interface Monitoring

 Pigging activities

 Fire Fighting activities

 Metering and Meter Proving activities

 Communication within Depot and other locations

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 Fig. 3.1: The Depot Control Panel - Showing Process indicators for all field equipment.

Also installed in the Control Room is the;

 Diesel Engine Pump and Flow Control Panel which consists of Process control computers,
Metering and Meter Prover Controls, Densitometers and Pig Signalers
 Fire Fighting Control and Annunciator Control Panel which indicate Process and Alarm
status of Equipment and Variables.
 Electric Motor Pump Control Panel.

3.5 Product Reception

The process of product receipt can be summarized as follows; first before product is received at the
depot a tank is nominated at the refinery and fiscalization of the nominated tank is carried out.
Fiscalization is simply the determining the exact quantity and quality of product in the tank. It is
carried out using the Measuring steel tape or Dip meter, Thermometer and the Thief can used for
collecting samples. The refinery operator then performs the tank dipping exercise to measure the
tank level, draw up a representative sample of the product with the Thief can for laboratory
analysis of the density, flash point, distillation for gasoline and other necessary characteristics. The
temperature of the product is also taken using the Thermometer. The Depot operator prepares an
empty tank to receive the product. If an empty tank is not readily available and a tank already

26
containing product is to be used, fiscalization of the tank is carried out prior to receiving crude into
it. Water draining exercise is also carried out to ensure that the tank is free of water. When all
preparations are complete at the terminals and refining ends of the supply pipeline the Refinery
operator then gives the Depot operator the final signal for alertness while the booster pump is
switched on to pump the product in the tank. At the end of the product receipt, the operator
calculates the quantity received into the tank and carries out the fiscalization of the product in the
same manner as above. The products are pumped through the booster pumps and are received
through pipelines. These pipelines have different colour coding depending on the product received
in order to avoid contamination. For PMS we have Blue, White for DPK and Brown for AGO.

3.6 Flow Metering

This is the process of using a flow meter to measure the volume of liquid (i.e. crude oil or
petroleum products) as it passes through the pipelines. Flow meter are installed at all stations and
the indicate the amount of products being passed through the station at any given time.
Meter prover: Normal flow of pumped products is through the prover. The operating principle of
the prover is to displace a known precise volume of products for direct comparison with the meter
readout, thus providing a means of calibrating the meter under actual operating conditions.
There are no metering activities from the Import Tankers to the Depot Tanks. Hence quantity
determination by metering cannot be carried out. Meters are installed at the NNPC and Marketers
loading gantries for discharge of petroleum products from the depot tanks to the road trucks. The
transaction is between the buyer and the operators. The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR)
representatives always monitor the activities at the oil depots.
The operating company personnel and the buyer representatives witness the discharge of products
by the operator through the meter. After settling of product in the road truck the quantity of
product is jointly ullage using ullage bar to reconfirm the metered quantity. If there are no
discrepancies between the quantities, a Certificate of Quantity shall be issued by operator’s
management and circulate accordingly.

3.7 Storage Tanks

The storage tanks are situated at the tank farm and are used to store large quantities of petroleum
products. The tanks are cylindrical and large with various capacities. They are constructed with
stainless steel or mild steel to resist corrosion because of impurities in the products like water
which is an agent of corrosion. The storage tanks for the Volatile products like PMS have floating
roofs while others like DPK and AGO have fixed roofs. The floating roof tank comprises of an

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open-topped cylindrical steel shell equipped with a roof that floats on the surface of the stored
liquid due to changes in the vapour pressure of the products as the temperature changes so as to
prevent vapour losses. As opposed to the fixed roof tanks there is no vapour space (ullage) in the
floating roof tank. In principle, this eliminates breathing losses and greatly reduces the evaporative
loss of the stored liquid. Ladders are constructed with the tanks to allow accessibility to the top in
other to determine the temperature and volume of products in the tank daily.
At the Depot, there are four (4) floating roof tanks for PMS, twelve (12) fixed roof tanks with four
each for DPK, AGO and SLOP Tank used for storing contaminated products.

Fig. 3.2: Depot Storage Tanks

3.8 Loading Operations

As mentioned earlier, petroleum products from the depot tanks are dispensed to the road tankers
from the Loading Gantry. Each loading gantry consists of the following:

 Two loading arms: Each pair of loading arm must dispense same product.
 Two positive displacement Meters and loading Meters: These ensure that accurate
records of products delivered by the loading pumps are kept, they are pneumatically
activated.
 Two loading Ticket Printers: These print the loaded quantities on the loading ticket.

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  Accuload II Process Controllers: It is a meter control and measurement system used to
control a lane of loading arms; it has dual loading ticket printers below and loading
control panel. They are stand-alone process controller and are electronically activated.

Fig. 3.3: Loading Gantry

3.9 Interface Monitoring

Interface on petroleum products in multi- purpose pipelines systems refers to as the zone of
demarcation between two products when mixing occurs. Generally, interface is a boundary layer,
so the boundary between two products when they are pumped in succession is known as interface.
During the pumping of these products they are not allowed to come in contact with each other
because of lack of tolerance, due to this, they are pumped in successions. Generally, interface
when properly handled has no effect on the quality of the product but if it is not properly handled
and cut at the appropriate time there would be product contamination.
During interface cutting or monitoring, there is usually a buffer inside the pipeline that separates
the two products that are to be pumped. The buffer is a contaminated product and so it to help the

29
pipeline operators know the appropriate time for cutting. The pipeline operators continue to track
the interface using the thermometer for checking the temperature of the product and the
hydrometer to continuously measure the density of the product and compare the differences. When
a significant change in density of the product is observed, the receiving tank is closed to ensure
that the product is not contaminated. The pipeline operators then perform same routine and if it is
the buffer, the slop tank is opened to receive the contaminated product; after which the second tank
is opened depending on the next product in the line. There is always a certain amount of
intermixing between the first product and the second at the "interface," the point where they meet.
If the products are similar, such as two grades of gasoline, the resulting mixture is added to the
lower value product. If the products are dissimilar, such as diesel and gasoline, the "transmix," the
hybrid product created by intermixing at the interface, must be channeled to separate storage and
reprocessed.

3.10 Quality Control Laboratory

3.10.1 Specimen Collection

Samples are usually collected from marketers at the Tarmac, which is a place where trucks that
bridged or those containing products are parked and also from the tank farm. The products are
mainly Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK) and Automotive Gas Oil
(AGO). The entire products must be tested for certification by carrying out quality control test on
them before reaching the final consumers. These samples are collected with a container called
“thief can” which is dipped into the truck for the collection of the top, bottom and middle.

3.10.2 Quality Control Test

In the quality control laboratory, the following test are usually carried out;

 Temperature Test
 Density Test
 Distillation Profile mainly for PMS
 Flash Point Test

3.10.2.1 Determination of Temperature

Aim: To determine the temperature of PMS, DPK AND AGO

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Apparatus used: Thermometer, Measuring cylinder
Procedure: The samples collected from the tanks was poured into the measuring cylinder, the
thermometer was dipped into it and left for about 2-3 minutes, the temperature reading was then
taken and recorded. This procedure was repeated for the remaining samples.
Normal range: At least normal room temperature.
Precautions:
 It was ensured that the measuring cylinder was rinsed with the product to be tested before
carrying out the test.
 It was ensured that the temperature reading was taken as the thermometer was removed
from the measuring cylinder to obtain an accurate result.

3.10.2.2 Determination of Density

Density of a fluid is its mass per unit volume and the related term Specify gravity is the ratio of the
density of a product to that of water at the same temperature. The temperature usually specified is
15.56o C. They are important properties of petroleum and petroleum products and accurate
determinations of the density, specific gravity of a petroleum product are necessary for the
conversion of measured volumes to volumes at standard temperature of 15.56 oC when the volume
is known; its mass can be calculated.
Density, Relative density (specific gravity), or API gravity is a factor governing the quality and
pricing of crude petroleum. However, this property of petroleum is an uncertain indication of its
quality unless correlated with other properties.
Density is an important quality indicator for automotive, aviation and marine fuels, where it affects
storage, handling and combustion. It also provides a check on the uniformity of gasoline. Density
is measured in Kg/m3 because mass/volume = density (Kg/m3).
This test method covers the laboratory determination using a glass hydrometer. Values are
determined at existing temperatures and corrected to 15°C or 60°F by means of a series of
calculations and international standard tables.

Aim: To get the mass per unit volume of the product.

Apparatus used: Hydrometer and Measuring cylinder.
Procedure: The sample was poured into the measuring cylinder and the hydrometer of required
range was gently dropped into the measuring cylinder containing the sample. It was left for some
minutes to attain balance or equilibrium. Then the hydrometer reading was taken and recorded.

31
Hydrometers are of different types hence different hydrometers were used for the different product
sample depending on the one that was most suitable.
Normal Ranges: PMS: 750-800kg/m3, DPK: 800-850 kg/m3, AGO: 850-900 kg/m3
Precautions:
 I ensured that the measuring cylinder was rinsed with the particular product to be tested
before carrying out the experiment.
 I ensured that the reading was only taken when the hydrometer had attained equilibrium
and at the point of meniscus.

Fig. 3.4: Series of Hydrometers

3.10.2.3 Determination of Flash Point

The flash point of volatile material is the lowest temperature at which it can vaporize to form an
ignitable mixture in air. Measuring a flash point requires an ignition source. Below the flash point
the vapor may cease to burn when the source of ignition is removed. The flash point is often used
as descriptive characteristics of liquid fuel, and it is also use to help characterize the fire hazard of
liquids. The determination of flash point of petroleum products consists of heating a given volume
of liquid at a standard rate of temperature rise until vapor is produced to such a degree as to give a
flammable mixture with air in an enclosed space (i.e. closed flash point temperature), ignition
resulting or with air in an open cup.

32
Each flammable liquid requires a different concentration of it is vapor in air to sustain combustion.
The flash point of a flammable liquid is the lowest temperature at which there will be enough
flammable vapor to ignite when an ignition source is applied.
The minimal flash point of DPK is 45°C and this is the lowest temperature at which DPK can
vaporize to form an ignitable mixture in air. If the flash point of DPK is below this value 45°C, it
is highly flammable and it is off specification that is (off-spec), therefore the product is not
allowed to get to the consumers. DPK flash point test is mainly done to prevent inclusion of highly
flammable volatile fraction when in used. The normal range of the DPK flash point is 45°C - 62°C.
The minimal flash point of AGO is 65°C, it is the lowest temperature at which AGO can vaporize
to form an ignitable mixture in air. If the flash point of AGO is below this temperature value, it
means, it is highly flammable therefore it is off specification (off-spec). The normal range for the
flash point of AGO is 650C - 1200C.
This product is not always flashed because of its volatility which gives it a very low flash point and
makes it highly flammable.

Aim: To determine the minimum temperature at which the vapour from a heated sample of AGO
and DPK will ignite when exposed to flame
Apparatus used: Pensky Martens Flash point tester which consists of the following: Test cup,
Test cover and shutter, Stirring device, Heater, Source of ignition and Thermometer.
Procedure: The test cup was thoroughly cleaned and dried, it was then filled with the sample to be
tested to the level indicated by the filling mark of the cup and the lid was placed. The locking
device was properly engaged and the thermometer was inserted. The gas source was opened and
the source of ignition (lighter) was used to light up a flame, the flame was adjusted so that the
temperature rises to about 600C. The stirrer was stirred at 120rmp, rotation per minutes
[revolution]. The experimental set-up was carefully monitored to ensure that an accurate result is
obtained. The quality control minimum flash point for AGO is 65°C as a result of this, the test
flame was first applied at 00C- 500C, after which the flame test was then applied at every 1 CC-20C
rise in temperature. The test flame was introduced by lowering the flame into the vapour space of
the cup and quickly raised to its normal position. The observed flash point temperature was read
from thermometer when test flame application caused a distinct flash point in the interior of the
cup.

33
 Fig. 3.5: Pensky Martens Flash Point Tester

3.10.2.4 Flash Point Test for DPK

Apparatus used: Tag-Closed cup flash point tester which consists of the following;
Test cup, test cup cover and shutter, heating source, ignition source and thermometer.
Procedure: The same procedure above is repeated for DPK. The quality control minimum flash
point temperature for DPK is 45°C. As a result of this, the test flame was first applied to the
sample at 0°C-10°C and after 40 0C the test flame is then applied to every 1 0C-20C rise in
temperature. This was repeated until the sample was flashed i.e. the point at which the flame goes
off when lowered into the vapour space of the cup. The temperature at this point was then taken
and recorded as the observed flash point.

Precautions:

 I ensured that the test cup was filled with the sample to the filling mark of the cup.
 I made sure that the locking device was properly engaged and that the thermometer was
well inserted.
 Ensured that the rim of the cup is in contact with the inner surface of the cover round
the circumference
 I ensured that the reading on the thermometer was taken immediately the product
flashed to ensure an accurate result.

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 Fig. 3.6: Tag-Closed Cup Flash Point Tester

3.10.2.5 Determination of PMS Distillation

Distillation is the process of purifying [a liquid] by heating it so that it vaporized, then cooling and
condensing the vapor and collecting the resulting liquid. Distillation is a widely used method for
separating mixture based on differences in the conditions required to change the phase of mixture
of liquids. The liquid can be heated to force components, which have different boiling points, into
the gas phase. The gas is then condensed back into liquid form and collect. Distillation is used for
many commercial processes, such as distillation of PMS {petroleum product} and this type of
distillation used for PMS is called fraction distillation. The distillation characteristics(volatility)
have an important effect on their safety and performance, it also gives a broad indication of fuel
type and are indicative of the vaporization behavior of fuels in storage. Volatility is the major
determinant of the tendency of a hydrocarbon mixture to produce potentially explosive vapors.
Distillation limits are often included in petroleum product specifications, in commercial contract
agreements, process refinery/control applications and for compliance to regulatory rules.

Aim: To determine the minimum temperature at which the product starts evaporating that is the
initial boiling point and the maximum temperature at which the sample stop boiling which is the
final boiling point.
Apparatus used: Petroleum Products Distillation tester, Distillation flask and cork, Measuring
Cylinder, Cooling bath (chamber), Thermometer.

35
Procedure: 100ml of PMS was measured into the distillation flask, the flask was corked with the
thermometer fitted at the middle, the flask was then placed into the distillation machine and heat
was applied to vaporize the sample. The cooling bath of the distiller was filled with Ice; the
temperature was then raised to 200C because a good product would start condensing at about 30 0C.
The measuring cylinder was placed close to the collection unit of the distiller to collect the
condensed liquids. The temperature observed at the fall of the first drop of condensate into the
measuring cylinder was recorded and taken as the initial boiling point (IBP). The temperature
reading at which 5ml, 10ml, 20ml, 30ml, 40ml, 50ml and 70ml was also taken; next the
temperature was increased by 5 0C and the temperature at which 90ml and 95ml was recovered was
recorded, after which the maximum temperature reached during the test was recorded as the final
boiling point (FBP).
Normal Range: The normal range for any good PMS sample is 2050C-2070C; any product that
boils above this temperature is suspected to contain impurities.

Fig. 3.7: Petroleum Product Distillation Tester

3.10.2.6 Quality Control Certificate

After all the tests have been carried out on the samples taken from the marketers at the tarmac, and
the results are within the specified range, there is a certificate issued to the marketers. This
certificate is called the quality control certificate. When completed, the test results are stated in the
quality certificate to show that the products are on-spec (within range) or off-spec (outside range).
There are specifications that have been placed for each petroleum product. After the tests, if the
product is on-spec, the certificate is printed and attached to their way bills and sent to the

36
laboratory scientist for signing after which it is then taken to the Depot manager for certification
and then to the department of Petroleum resources for their acknowledgement after which it is
given to the marketers to continue with the distribution of the product.

3.11 Pipeline Maintenance

Unprotected pipelines, whether buried in the ground, exposed to the atmosphere, or submerged in
water, are susceptible to corrosion. Without proper maintenance, every pipeline system will
eventually deteriorate. Corrosion can weaken the structural integrity of a pipeline and make it an
unsafe vehicle for transporting potentially hazardous materials. However, technology exists to
extend pipeline structural life indefinitely if applied correctly and maintained consistently.
Corrosion protection is required to maintain the integrity of a buried pipeline system and cathodic
protection is fundamental to preserving pipelines.

CHAPTER FOUR

SUMMARY

4.1 Problems Encountered

During the period of my industrial attachment with Pipelines and Products Marketing Company I
encountered the following problems;

37
  Lack of detailed information on some of the practical carried out.
 Malfunctioning of some of the apparatus and Equipment at the Depot
 Inhalation of petroleum products during loading and other harmful gases as appropriate
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as nose mask was not readily available.
 Reluctance of some of the staff and laboratory personnel to explain the working
principle of some of the equipment and practical procedures in the laboratory. This in
turn made it difficult to know in detail some of the work that are been carried out.

4.2 Relevance of the SIWES Program

Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme is very relevant as it aims at giving the recipient the
competencies required to do a job or carry out a function. It transfers knowledge, skills, abilities
and attitudes required to do a specific job or carry out a specific function from one person to
another or to a group of persons.
During the course of my industrial training program, I was familiar with the professional
environment and its activities; I met professional chemical engineers who taught me what it means
to practice chemical engineering. The programme also helped to improve my writing,
communication and listening skills. It diversified my practical experience and helped me in
developing the attribute of team work and correlation with members of other
professions and disciplines.

4.3 Recommendations
I want to say sincerely that the industrial training is of great importance to the student’s field of
study and therefore great attention should be given to it. The Industrial Training supervisors should
improve their relationship with the students and give them detailed information on whatever they
are doing, to make them work independently. Firms and companies should also assist the students
on training with funds to serve as incentives and financial aids.

4.3.1 Advice to Future Participants

Students who will be trained in future should try to apply early and in multiple places to enable
them get the best placement. They should also not focus on the financial benefits but rather on the
experience they will gain. They should also show total effective to their duty and be zealous to
learn as this will help leave a good print of them and the school they represent.

38
4.3.2 Advice to the SIWES Coordinators

The SIWES Coordinators should endeavor to give orientation to students before they embark on
the training, as this will help them understand the purpose of the scheme. The training immensely
improves capabilities of its participants; hence it should be encouraged.

4.2 Conclusion
The five (5) months I spent at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Depot, Suleja
was an eye opening, great level of exposure and a worthwhile experience. The practical
knowledge helped me to understand better the process associated with the Analysis and
Distribution of Petroleum products.
The experience exposed me to the practical aspect of Petroleum Products Storage conditions,
Distribution profile and Laboratory Analysis. I had the privilege to work with competent
Engineers and Technicians at the Depot to execute their various operations.
It also exposed me to Engineering projects supervision and how to make practical decisions
on Engineering projects. I had practical training on the Oil and Gas industries and
particularly how refined Petroleum products are transferred from various Pipelines to a
Storage Tank and how they are loaded to the land trucks as well as the importance of safety,
security and environmental / health safety in each of the production process.
The objective of the industrial training which is to experience and gain practical knowledge
as well as to effectively apply the theoretical knowledge gained in school to real life
engineering situations was achieved.

REFERENCES

1. Rahmanian, Nejat; Aqar, Dhia Y.; Bin Dainure, Muhammad F.; Mujtaba, Iqbal M. (2018).
"Process simulation and assessment of crude oil stabilization unit". Asia-Pacific Journal of
Chemical Engineering. 13 (4): e2219. doi:10.1002/apj.2219. hdl:10454/16518.

39
2. https://www.academia.edu/42147994/
Pipeline_transportation_of_petroleum_products_in_nigeria_threats_challenges_and_prospe
cts20200305_46126_t6o1mz

3. James G. Speight PhD, DSc (2014); Handbook of Petroleum Product Analysis, 2nd
Edition©2015 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

4. "Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines for Crude Oil and Petroleum Product
Terminals" (PDF). World Bank. Retrieved 25 July 2020.
5. https://www.referenceforbusiness.com/industries/Wholesale-Trade/Petroleum-Bulk-
Stations-Terminals.html&mb=2&bg=1

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