LSTK execution of three high capacity enclosed ground flare systems for ONGC’s gas production facilities in Assam
- Jun 5
- 2 min read

Client: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)
Sector: Oil & Gas
Status: 2 sites fully commissioned, 3rd site in final commissioning
Application: Combustion of relief gases
Inlet Gas: Methane-rich
Capacities:
Site 1: 17,500 Nm³/hr (Stack Height: 16 m)
Site 2: 108,416 Nm³/hr (Stack Height: 18 m)
Site 3: 55,000 Nm³/hr (Stack Height: 18 m)
Overview
As part of ONGC’s drive to modernize its flare infrastructure and eliminate atmospheric venting, CRA was awarded a Lump Sum Turnkey (LSTK) contract to design, engineer, and install new enclosed ground flares across three installations in Assam.
These revamps were aimed at:
Improving safety by eliminating outdated open vent stacks
Enhancing environmental compliance with OISD and other norms
Providing long-term, reliable combustion systems for relief gases
The project scope included complete system replacement, from flare headers to seal drums and knock-out vessels, with all civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation works delivered under a single integrated contract.
CRA worked closely with site teams across the fields, navigating live plant constraints, legacy tie-ins, and aggressive commissioning targets.
Scope of work
CRA’s turnkey scope included:
New flare systems with sub-header integration
Catch Pots, Knock-Out Drums, Seal Drums and associated pumping systems
Pilot ignition network routed from FFG/PLC panel
Complete civil work, including design simulations, and in-situ concrete piles
PSV/PCV modifications, including isolation upgrades for safer maintenance
Complete utility piping (pilot gas, service water, instrument air)
Controlled shutdowns and tie-ins across live operating areas
Full QA/QC, documentation, and compliance with OISD, DGMS, and CPCB
Challenges and Solutions
Challenge | CRA's Solution |
Remote multi-site coordination | Modular execution teams deployed in parallel |
Integration with undocumented legacy piping | Comprehensive pre-bid surveys and 'as-existing' validation |
Hot work in live plant | Phased shutdown planning with strict safety permits |
Infrastructure variability | Customized tie-in and layout solutions for each installation |
Performance Assurance
Each flare system successfully commissioned has passed a 72-hour Performance Guarantee Test Run, confirming:
Emission control
Mechanical integrity
Long-term reliability