Pipelines are such an integral part of our lives, allowing oil and gas companies to contribute greatly to our economy. It is crucial, however, for the pipeline industry to ensure that this system works safely and efficiently.
Doing so comes down to proper pipeline services. With a wide variety of tools and equipment designed to keep pipes operational and safe, pipeline services are not only crucial but achievable as well.
Why Are Pipelines Important?
Pipelines are used to move a variety of substances such as water, sewage, crude oil, petroleum products, and natural gas safely across large distances. Pipelines are the most practical way to deliver oil and gas from remote areas.
What Happens if Pipelines Are Not Properly Maintained?
Pipelines deteriorate over time and, if left in a state of disrepair, can pose a serious risk of injury, death, environmental destruction, and service interruptions.
Environmental Damage
When a pipeline becomes corroded, the metal is compromised and at risk of leaking, cracking, splitting, or rupturing. Any of these results could cause hazardous materials to leak into the ground and environment, causing potential damage to both nature and people nearby.
Disruption of Service
Apart from the risks of injury, ignoring proper pipeline services and allowing pipes to corrode and break down will ultimately lead to a disruption in service. This will negatively affect both those who depend on the product being moved through the pipes and those who are responsible for the pipelines a stoppage of product transport could spell the loss of revenue and hurt a company’s bottom line.
Risk of Explosion
The weakening of pipes can also result in overpressure events, which could lead to deadly explosions. Explosions can also be caused by gas or oil leaking from the pipeline and coming into contact with heat or flame.
What is Included in Pipeline Services?
Proper pipeline services involve maintaining the integrity of a pipeline and all of its related components. This is done through regular inspections and repairs.
Pipeline Inspections
A thorough inspection can detect potential issues such as corrosion, leaks, and build-up. Special equipment such as pipeline pigs is used to perform various maintenance operations. They can measure various factors inside the pipe such as restrictions and deformations of the pipes as well as metal loss.
Damage Prevention
Apart from the damage caused by environmental factors and age, accidental damage can be caused by excavation and construction around pipelines. In order to prevent accidental damage, both pipeline companies and the digging community must take responsibility when laying pipes and digging around them. Pipeline operators are responsible for constructing pipelines that follow governing regulations.
Pipeline Repair
If a repair is necessary, pipes can be reinforced with composite wraps or steel repair sleeves. These products are designed to fix corrosion issues and leaks while avoiding transport stoppages.
