Pipeline Transportation

Abstract

Pipelines are continuous large‐diameter piping systems. Usually buried underground where feasible, through which gases, liquids, or solids suspended in fluids are transported over considerable distances. They are used to move water, wastes, minerals, chemicals, and industrial gases, but primarily crude oil, petroleum products, and natural gas. In the oil and gas business, a pipeline consists of a trunkline, ie, the large diameter, high pressure, long distance portion of the piping system through which the crude oil is shipped to refineries, or natural gas and oil products, respectively, are transported to distribution points, and smaller low pressure gathering lines that transport oil or gas from wells to the trunkline. Smaller lines used by natural gas distributors are not considered part of a gas pipeline system. This article gives information on the historical perspective of pipeline development and includes natural gas and liquid pipelines. Pipelines are a more economical form of transportation than rail or tuck, and are usually secure within a nation or between friendly neighbors. Physical pipeline development consists of several logical steps such as route selection, regulatory application, design, maintenance, construction, and commissioning. A complete checklist is provided. The Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968 began the regulation of natural pipeline transmission.