Types Of Pipeline Every Oil and Gas Engineer Should Know About



There has been a dramatic improvement in pipeline installation. This includes improvements in pipeline types as well. The pipelines are an important part of our infrastructure and each type serves a different purpose. 


Based on their function, making, and material they transport, we have compiled a list of the different types of pipelines used in different oil and gas pipelines in India.


Based on the function of the pipeline:


Collection/Gathering - After being extracted, most of the natural resources are being processed. These resources are pulled from their source and transported to the plant or storage tank for further processing by the pipeline installation companies. These pipelines are smaller in length because the time between the two points should be minimal. 


Transmission/Transport - Oil and gas pipelines in India transport natural resources over long-distance across cities or transportation pipelines are used. They are large and operate under very high pressures. Corrosion is among the most common reason for the damage of these pipelines along with defective welding and material failure.


Distribution - The task to deliver the prepared natural resource to the destinations, such as industrial, commercial, and residential sectors is done by these pipelines. The diameter may range from 12.7 mm to 152.4 mm. There are two types of distribution pipelines - mains and service. The ends of the mains are sealed with end seals. The service pipeline connects to a meter and carries the resource to each customer. 


Based on material selected to make the pipeline:


1. Steel - Large pipelines with large diameters used by the pipeline installation companies are made from steel. 


2. Cast iron - These pipelines were used earlier, now pipelines made out of ductile iron are used in an underground gas pipeline in India


3. Plastic - They are lightweight and easy to lay and align. Composite pipelines made from thermoplastics are stronger and corrosion-resistant. They are cost-effective and are widely used in oil and gas pipelines in India. The development of composite materials has made them a viable alternative over metallic pipelines.


Based on material transported:


  • Petroleum - The two types of pipelines used in the oil industry are the crude oil pipeline, which transports oil from the well to the refineries, and the product pipeline, which carries refined products to homes, businesses, and industries. Both are made from steel with an external coating to avoid corrosion.

  • Gas - Transportation of gas is much cheaper through pipelines as compared to roadways or railways. While the collection and transport pipelines are made from steel, the distribution service pipelines are made from plastic. 


Underground gas pipeline in India is the safest and economical way to transport oil and gas. For longer pipelines, construction is done in segments and then put together on-site.  Companies like RACI offers a range of products to ensure transportation is safe and cost-effective. They also provide trenchless pipeline rehabilitation for oil, gas, and water pipelines ensuring all the necessary environmental safety protocols.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

How to apply for a gas pipeline in India?

Pipeline Installation and Its Methods

Preparing for pipeline installation – what safety steps need to be taken