A massive pressure vessel used in natural gas processing will cause significant traffic delays on Highway 63 and other routes in central Alberta starting Sunday, July 12, through Saturday, July 18. The de-methanizer, measuring 104 metres long, 6.5 metres wide, and 7.92 metres high, weighs 523,300 kilograms and will be transported on a trailer with 352 wheels.
Transport details and schedule
The convoy will travel from Edmonton to a work site near Fort McMurray at a maximum speed of 50 km/h, leading to expected backups on multiple highways. The schedule is as follows:
- July 12: Departure at 11 pm from Edmonton via 70th Avenue, 17th Street, Whitemud counterflow, Highway 216 counterflow, and Highway 14 eastbound toward Viking.
- July 13: Continue on Highway 36 to Highway 45, stopping at Two Hills Scale for inspection.
- July 14: Eastbound on Highway 45 back to Highway 36, then Highways 29 and 28, stopping at Radway Scale.
- July 15: Travel on Highways 28 and 63 to May Tower South Rest Area.
- July 16: Continue north on Highway 63 to a point 35 kilometres from Fort McMurray.
- July 17: Use ramps in Fort McMurray to avoid overpasses, then continue on Highway 63 to North point of entry.
- July 18: Final leg on Highway 63 to Voyageur Road, then Aostra Road, arriving at the site at 8 am.
Importance of the de-methanizer
De-methanizers are critical in natural gas processing, ensuring that gas meets pipeline specifications. According to the article, such components are vital for executing future pipeline plans to the west coast, recently announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney and Premier Danielle Smith.
Traffic impact
The slow-moving convoy is expected to cause significant delays for motorists traveling north from Edmonton on Highway 63 and other affected routes. Authorities advise planning alternate routes or allowing extra travel time.
