What To Know About Pipelines

Pipelines are one of the most effective and safe methods to transport natural gas from one place to another. Pipeline systems are useful in many applications and often vary in size and length. Whether you work on a pipeline, own one, or are simply interested in the subject, discover what to know about pipelines.

Pipelines Are Safe

According to the National Transportation and Safety Board, pipelines are one of the safest means of transporting oil and natural gas. Pipelines, with the proper maintenance and usage, are a safe option to transport various substances.

Pipelines Can Corrode

Corrosion is one of the primary issues in the pipeline industry. Corrosion can jeopardize the integrity of the pipeline and even cause leaks. One surprising factor is the way soil can affect pipelines. If the soil around a pipeline is corrosive, the pipe will corrode more quickly and severely, which can then cause breaks and leaks.

Rust is a common form of corrosion. Rust can eat holes in pipelines in the same way it eats through the body of a car, resulting in devastating consequences.

There Are Millions of Miles of Pipelines

There are millions of miles of pipelines throughout the world carrying liquids and gas across great lengths. In the United States alone, more than 1.3 million miles of pipeline transport natural gas and billions of tons of liquid petroleum every year. This type of milage would reach the moon and back more than twice!

Pipelines Aren’t as New as Many People Think

While pipelines may seem like new and innovative technology that came about in recent years, it’s actually been around for centuries. The first documented oil pipeline was in 1859 to transport commercial oil in Pennsylvania.

Pipelines are a fascinating subject worth learning more about. This guide should be a good start on what to know about pipelines. To learn more about pipelines, search for additional resources online. Pipelines are continuing to grow in popularity for oil and other liquid and gas.