All meteorological analyzes indicate the possibility of new snowfall for the next few days in the Neuquén mountain range and for this reason, the company Hydrocarbons of Neuquén SA (HIDENESA) “The stock of the plants has improved and they have a guaranteed supply horizon of three to four days, except in those locations where consumption is usually high.”, as reported.
As an example, the towns of Aluminé, Caviahue and Loncopué that have a consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) that “They require the shipment of one or two pieces of equipment per day for each plant, which is why a 23-ton piece of equipment is available for storage in those locations.”
In the northern region, which was affected days ago by heavy snowfall, extra precautions were taken, such as stocking up on fuel (gas oil) for bulk equipment. In addition, a van with an operator was added to assist the long-haul teams that will transport LPG to the plant. The sheep and to the bulk equipment that will transport that LPG to Los Miches, Varvarco and Manzano Amargo.
Last week’s storm lasted several days and complicated the supply of LPG in those towns in northern Neuquén. Although the plants had LPG for the networks, there were inconveniences because the stocks were for two days in general.
In addition, to this were added the delays in transit from Chos Malal towards Las Ovejas due to the accumulation of snow, ice and mud in several sectors – especially in La Primavera – which forced traffic to travel at speeds of 10 to 20 km/hr or caused the interruption of traffic.
The inconveniences with the electrical service caused a delay in the loading and unloading of LPG to the plants -due to the use of bulk equipment pumps- and also caused the facilities to have practically no vaporization because these equipment work with the electrical service (220V).
The provision of LPG transcends HIDENESA and requires coordination with other state companies. Provincial roads thus have a central role in dealing not only with the clearing of routes and roads but also with the clearing of entrances to the plants so that the equipment does not get stuck.
