【How Much Do You Know About Skill Experts】010 The \"Pipeline Iron Man\" Who Builds the Arteries of Oil and Gas”

Thread Content

This post was last edited by Guan Gongyu on 2016-4-22 at 22:05. The \"Pipeline Iron Man\" who built the arteries for oil and gas – Wang Xijun, an oil and gas pipeline installer at the Qinghai Oil Field. In 1990, he was admitted to the Qinghai Petroleum Management Technical School located in Dunhuang. Three years later, he was assigned to the front-line operations at the Huatuogou oil field in Qinghai. Won the “China Skills Award” in 2011. In February 2011, Wang Xijun, who was working on a construction site in Wuwei, Gansu, received notice that he had been awarded a prize in Beijing. He went to Wuwei city to buy a suit and then rushed to Beijing. A few days later, he entered Ziguangge in Zhongnanhai and donned the sash of the \"China Skills Award\". “I didn’t expect it to be such a prestigious award; only 20 people are selected over the course of two years. ”Not long ago, he lamented to reporters. From a vocational school student to a skilled master with numerous honors, over the past 20 years, Wang Xijun’s hardships and triumphs, efforts and achievements have all been closely tied to oil and gas pipelines. Oil and natural gas are vital to the modern economy, while pipelines play a crucial role in transporting energy; they are essentially the **arteries of the economy**. From the deserts and Gobi plains to the fishing ports on the East Sea, from the high mountains and barren lands to the water-rich lowlands, and from the vast snow-capped peaks to the tropical rainforests, Chinese oil pipeline builders have braved wind and snow to continuously extend these extensive pipeline networks. Wang Xijun is one of these pipeline builders. Listening to the machines humming non-stop, watching the pipe ends being connected, piles of soil and sand being moved around, and meters of pipes being buried, he said those were the moments that brought him the greatest sense of satisfaction. Entering the construction site, he faced the harsh conditions head-on and learned techniques from his seniors through hard work. In 1990, at the age of 16, Wang Xijun was admitted to Qinghai Petroleum Management and Technical School in Dunhuang. Three years later, he was assigned to work on the frontlines of production at Huatugou in the Qinghai Oilfield. Huatuigou is one of the production bases of the Qinghai Oil Field, located on the northwest edge of the Qaidam Basin at an altitude of nearly 3,000 meters. “There are no birds in the sky, and no grass on the ground. \"The wind blows the stones away; there isn’t enough oxygen,\" is an excellent description of the natural environment in Huatuigou. Recalling his first visit to Huatuigou, Wang Xijun used the word \"desperate\" several times – the 500-plus-kilometer journey from Dunhuang to Huatuigou was a barren area with not a single plant in sight. The vehicle moved forward unevenly, with clouds of dust and smoke in its wake. “Where is this? When will it arrive? ”The seemingly endless journey filled Wang Xijun with despair. From morning to night, after walking all day long, they finally arrived at Huatuigou. “As far as the eye can see, there are only humble bungalows; there are hardly any green trees at all. ”The dilapidation in Huatugou intensified Wang Xijun’s despair. On his first day at work, Wang Xijun found that it was difficult to distinguish between several groups: men and women, workers and farmers, and cadres and workers. Seeing his colleagues in a disheveled state and thinking about his own future work and life, Wang Xijun felt despair once again. “To end up in such a remote place with no one around – if it weren’t for the lack of money and the great distance from home, I would have gone back on foot. ”The harsh conditions dampened his enthusiasm for work, and at that time, Wang Xijun wanted to leave more than once. Wang Xijun’s mentor, He Zhiping, was demobilized from the military in 1978. He is meticulous in his work and cannot stand it when his apprentices are not motivated to improve; he often gives them advice, saying, \"Society is constantly evolving. If you don’t have any skills at a young age, it will be very difficult for you to establish yourself in your workplace, let alone in society.\" ” The master’s words stuck deep in Wang Xijun’s heart like nails. He said that although he was still a child at the time, he had courage and a sense of pride, and moreover did not want his parents back in Xining to worry or be disappointed, so he started to pull himself together and face the desolation of Huatuigou head-on. (Continued on Page 4) Wang Xijun at work. The unit where Wang Xijun works is responsible for the surface construction of oil fields. The oil extracted from each oil well must be transported to storage tanks through pipelines, and it is their responsibility to lay those pipelines and build the storage tanks. Wang Xijun worked as a pipefitter under his master, and soon he set his sights on riveting skills. “It’s really amazing to see them draw a few lines and then proceed with shaping the material according to those drawings, cutting it, manufacturing it, installing it, and adjusting it. ” A master surnamed Yang is skilled in riveting, but he has his own apprentices; according to the rules, knowledge is passed on within the family only. Wang Xijun started to think. Whenever he had the chance, he would read and memorize as much as possible; in his free time he would also go to the group of masters to talk and ask questions. Soon, Wang Xijun realized that trigonometric functions were needed for this task, so he dug through his old textbooks and reviewed mathematics thoroughly. The masters, seeing that the young man was clever and eager to learn, were willing to give him guidance from time to time. Gradually, he started doing technical work. “What I took out of my work pants pocket wasn’t just safety gloves; there were also a tape measure and chalk for marking lines.” ”Wang Xijun said. Wang Xijun grew rapidly and, a few years later, became an expert in technology. His first project was to guide people in building a 200-cubic-meter oil storage tank. This jar meets the standards in terms of both its appearance and internal quality. The company manager, Wu Kunyuan, highly praised it and made it a model jar. Wang Xijun achieved success in his first match, which gave him endless motivation. “At that time, I felt a bit proud; I thought I was incredibly great, and wherever I went I imagined that people would call me Master Wang. Actually, people more often call me Xiao Wang. ”Recalling that incident, Wang Xijun smiled innocently. Years of hard and monotonous work did not dull his sense of humor. Dedication to improving efficiency, acting alone to overcome dangers and earning a good reputation – for Wang Xijun, 2000 was a crucial turning point in his life. That year, he devoted himself to the construction of long-distance pipelines, and ever since then, he became renowned at the Qinghai Oilfield for his outstanding achievements. One of the company’s most important tasks at that time was to participate in the construction of the Serenlan pipeline. This is a key project under the Western Development Initiative; it was also the longest-distance gas transmission project in the world at that time, with the largest pipe diameter in China. It starts from the Sibei gas field in the Qaidam Basin of Qinghai Province and reaches Xining and Lanzhou. The total length of the pipeline is 953 kilometers, with a diameter of 660 millimeters. A pipe is over 10 meters long; it needs to be welded together piece by piece to become a pipeline. An important step before welding is to align the ends of the two pipes. As the saying goes, 70% depends on the fit, and 30% on welding. Accurate alignment is necessary to ensure welding quality. However, they had never undertaken projects involving such large-diameter pipes before. No skills and no equipment – what to do? Relying on photos taken by colleagues from a professional company, the engineers at the bureau brought Wang Xijun in, discussed the issue repeatedly, and eventually created an \"internal alignment tool\" for aligning pipes, thus solving the problem with the equipment. However, due to lack of technical proficiency, the speed of aligning the pipes is particularly slow. Field-based specialized pipeline construction teams can assemble sixty to seventy joints per day, while Wang Xijun and his colleagues, working from early morning till late at night, can only assemble twenty to thirty joints. This pace is completely inadequate to meet the deadline requirements. Wang Xijun was very frustrated. Soon, the organization sent them to Delingha, the capital of the province, to study*, and Wang Xijun set his sights on the pipeline team there. During the break, Wang Xijun talked with the plumber to ask for advice on technical issues. The plumber there said that we just do it this way, and there aren’t really any specific technical tricks to it. Unwilling to give up, Wang Xijun would go to their construction site by himself every day to observe and think about it. From the distance between the mouthpiece and the tube opening to the gestures used for alignment, he kept everything in mind silently. “I’ve never been this committed before. ”Wang Xijun told reporters. After returning to his workplace, Wang Xijun developed a set of appropriate methods based on practical circumstances. Using this method, the number of pairs per day more than doubled. Later, this approach was summarized as the “four-word principle,” namely: stability first, balance second, skillfulness third, and accuracy fourth. It is necessary to ensure stable movement of the pipe in the air, maintain a level posture for the pipe, adjust the distance between the pipe opening and the docking device carefully, and achieve precise alignment between the pipe openings. This approach was rolled out across the entire pipeline company, **improving construction efficiency. Later on, Wang Xijun realized that to further improve efficiency, good technology alone was not enough; good working methods were also necessary. While finding time to learn from other construction sites, he worked together with the unit’s technical staff; through trial and error, they developed a \"streamlined workflow method for long-distance pipeline construction.\" The operating methods, time requirements, and distance specifications for each step – from pipe unloading, piping, and pipe end cleaning to pipe lifting, pipe end alignment, and welding – are all clearly defined, ensuring that all processes are interconnected and that the work site remains tidy and organized. He managed to establish a smooth rhythm even in tasks that seemed to have no clear pattern. This work method increased work efficiency by nearly 20%, earning the third prize for QC achievements among young workers in Qinghai Province. One other thing that happened that year earned him the nickname “Pipe Iron Man”. In August of that year, the construction of the Seneilan gas pipeline project was in full swing. That day, the flaw detector, which weighed over 100 pounds, got stuck in the pipeline. Originally, after the two workers placed the instrument into the pipe, it would move forward on its own to check whether there were any flaws in the work done by Wang Xijun’s crew. But it suddenly stopped working and came to a halt 2.5 kilometers away from the pipeline entrance. Everyone started discussing possible solutions, and it seemed that there was only one way: to cut open the pipe in order to retrieve the instrument. But this would bring other problems: it would be even more difficult to align the cut pipes again, and given the technology available at that time, it’s unclear how much time it would take ； It’s not cost-effective, in terms of manpower and resources, to recall all the personnel and equipment from the entire unit. More importantly, pipe cutting will have a negative impact on the company’s reputation. The company is at a stage where it should be building its brand, and this matter shouldn’t affect its long-term interests. “I’ll go in and get the equipment. ”At the critical moment, Wang Xijun spoke up. The next morning, the sun baked the Qaidam Basin as usual. Standing at over 1.7 meters tall, Wang Xijun bent down and squeezed into a pipe with a diameter of just 660 millimeters. He lay on the small roller cart and slid through the pipes; the confined space, thin air, and dust raised in the darkness nearly caused him to suffocate several times. Finally, Wang Xijun reached for the flaw detector. He pushed a few times, but the instrument didn’t move at all. Wang Xijun found that it was difficult to move this guy on his own, so he had to place it on a pulley system and pull it out little by little. From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wang Xijun spent 6 hours inside the tube, traveling 5 kilometers back and forth. “It was extremely hot inside the tube; for a while I even fainted from the heat. ”Wang Xijun told reporters. Looking back now, Wang Xijun feels a wave of fear – it was the moment when he was closest to death. Since then, the story of the “Pipeline Iron Man” has spread throughout the Qinghai Oil Field. That year, Wang Xijun was undoubtedly named a model worker at the oil field, marking the first step toward his eventual recognition as a model worker in Qinghai Province and across the country. Working hard and smart to overcome challenges, the gold-medal-winning crew fought everywhere. After becoming a model worker, Wang Xijun set higher standards for himself. “The first step in selecting model workers is for more than 100 people in the unit to vote for them. We must not let our brothers down, nor fail to live up to the trust placed in us by the organization; in everything we say and do, we should act like model workers. ”Wang Xijun said. After becoming a model worker, the expectations placed on him by his superiors also changed. If there are no impressive achievements at the construction site for a while, or if the project encounters tough challenges, they will say, “Call Wang Xijun.” ”Therefore, when the construction of the Sininglan double-track pipeline encountered the difficult section of Yanggan Gully, and the deadline for completing the project before National Day was pressing, the leaders naturally thought of Wang Xijun. He was tasked with the mission in a time of crisis. Yangchangzigou is located on the east side of the Qaidam Basin; it lies between barren mountains and valleys, and its terrain resembles channels formed by twisted paths – it is an uninhabited area that cannot be found on maps. Yangchangzigou has a high altitude, intense ultraviolet radiation, severe oxygen deficiency, and is covered in emptiness and desolation. To do this kind of work, one not only has to be willing to endure hardships but also need to know how to work skillfully. In addition to having excellent technical skills, one must also be able to plan and coordinate effectively. Do not engage in a battle without preparation. Wang Xijun arrived at Yangzhangzigou alone in advance. Under the scorching sun, he went uphill and down valleys every day to survey the terrain, taking measurements over and over again, calculating various details, determining the angle and position at which the curved pipes should be placed, drawing sketches, and outlining the construction process. “During that period, I walked over 10 kilometers every day; my clothes became soaked with sweat time and again, leaving white stains behind. ”Wang Xijun said. Once everything was ready and the crew arrived, Wang Xijun and his colleagues carried out their tasks smoothly. The task was completed on time and to high quality in one and a half months, half ahead of the scheduled deadline. During those years, Wang Xijun’s team kept bringing surprises to the Qinghai oil field: during the construction of the Xianyi gas pipeline, they set a record for the highest number of welds completed in a single day, with 130 welds done. In the Suge gas pipeline double-track project, the threshold of 100 welds per day was first surpassed, sparking a labor competition at the construction site. **In the construction of the key project, the Lanzhou-Zhengzhou-Changsha refined oil pipeline, economic benefits of over 11 million yuan were generated, ranking first among all participating units. In the Sining-Lanzhou double-track project, the \"100-point assessment\" system helped achieve a 100% first-pass welding success rate, and the Wang Xijun team was awarded the title of \"Gold Medal Team\". Wang Xijun is becoming more and more mature, leading his team to continuous growth. In different projects, the crew members are usually different; it can be said that the crew remains constant while the personnel change. Once, his crew consisted entirely of seventeen- or eighteen-year-old \"Qinghai kids\". They have only received short-term training and lack technical proficiency ； There is an emotional gap when communicating with them. Leading such a team requires extra care. Well Shi 20, located at an altitude of 3430.09 meters in Shizigou, in the western southern part of the Qaidam Basin, is the first production well in this oil field. It is also the highest-altitude oil production well in the world, operating under the harshest natural conditions. Lake Capture King Xi Jun resorted to his usual tactics: he made thorough plans for production, enforced strict discipline, worked hard himself, and provided detailed guidance to them. Two weeks later, during the hundred-person assessment, Wang Xijun’s team was far ahead. After some time, all 10 welders in the team became versatile workers capable of performing various tasks. Wang Xijun also became a master whom they respected and trusted wholeheartedly. As a plumber, one follows the projects around, traveling to various places and living in harsh conditions is the norm. In the Qaidam Basin, when sandstorms rage, the tents where Wang Xijun and his colleagues live are subjected to extremely strong winds both outside and inside; at night, they have to cover their faces with pillowcases to protect themselves from the dust. In the humid and rainy south, construction often has to be carried out in muddy swamps. The project duration ranges from half a year to nearly a year; once on site, home becomes a distant concern. Working at dawn and resting at dusk, through day after day of hard labor, a sense of loneliness would occasionally arise in the hearts of the young men. Wang Xijun strives to bring warmth to everyone. He created family contact cards for the crew members. He celebrates every employee’s birthday. He often advised everyone: \"Spending a day doing one’s work happily, humming tunes, is just as good as spending a day in a gloomy mood.\" When we get together, we create a cohesive energy; by moving forward together, everyone stays motivated. ”At that time, Wang Xijun was a brother who treated people with sincerity. Hardship is not only the norm for plumbers but also for workers in the oil industry. On harsh environments and difficult living conditions, especially in the Qinghai oil field, the highest in the world. On the road from the Dunhuang base to Huatu Gou, one has to cross the Dangjin Mountain Pass at an altitude of 3648 meters, and pass through a place called Lenghu. This is the starting point for our country’s development of oil and gas resources in Qaidam. Here lies the famous Qinghai Lenghu No. 4 Cemetery, which holds the remains of over 400 pioneers who lost their lives or died prematurely while working on the development of the Qinghai oil fields; the youngest of them was only 19 years old. No matter how difficult it was, Wang Xijun persevered. In 2011, another turning point came in his life: the “Master Wang Xijun Studio” was established, becoming one of the first studios to be recognized as a **-level master skills studio. Skill master studios are one of the main platforms where highly skilled professionals can exert their influence. Wang Xijun says that he has three main responsibilities: the first is to train apprentices and cultivate key personnel in production technology ； Second, when the company encounters technical challenges in its production and operation processes, it organizes efforts to overcome them ； Third, it combines the skill workshops of 6 oilfield subsidiaries to drive technological innovation. Once, Wang Xijun greatly longed for an office job: \"Carry a small bag, keep a tiny notebook, sit in a car where the wind can’t reach you and the rain can’t get to you – it’s comfortable and easy.\" ”But as soon as he entered the office, he missed the bustling construction site even more, as well as his colleagues with whom he worked hard together. Wang Xijun said that he has another wish, which is to “let more people understand the hardships and dedication of oil workers, and realize just how difficult it is to get the gas needed to light stoves in clean kitchens.” 1. What is Haichuan Freelancer? Let me tell you: http://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-1577567-1-1.html (Source: Haichuan Chemical Industry Forum) 2. “Freelancer promotion ads” – don’t hesitate over two yuan; just go for it! http://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-1578479-1-1.html (Source: Haichuan Chemical Forum) 3. Guan Guan tells you: N ways to obtain Haichuan coins. http://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-1578744-1-1.html (Source: Haichuan Chemical Forum) 4. Support Guan Guan – what’s returned to you is real wealth in the form of Haichuan coins. http://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-1577520-1-1.html (Source: Haichuan Chemical Forum) 5. ★Shida Chemical Sales★ Water reducers and surfactant products. http://bbs.hcbbs.com/thread-1577814-1-1.html (Source: Haichuan Chemical Forum)