Pipelines play a significant role in the oil and gas industry supply chain as they enable the transportation of oil, gas, and other fluids from production sites to processing facilities and distribution hubs. To optimize the efficiency and safety of pipeline operations, it is essential to classify pipelines according to their type, metal content, design pressure, applications, and unique challenges.
The three main types of pipelines in the oil and gas industry are gathering lines, transmission lines, and distribution lines. Gathering lines are usually short pipelines that move oil or gas from individual wellheads to a central collection point where the fluid is then sent to processing facilities. Transmission lines cover long distances, spanning across countries, and transport large volumes of crude oil or natural gas to refineries and distribution centers. Finally, distribution pipelines distribute fluid products, like natural gas or refined crude oil, to consumers.
Depending on the type of material to be transported, the oil and gas industry implements several types of pipelines:
Crude Oil Pipelines - utilized for conveying crude oil and refined oil products. The crude oil pipeline is classified into field pipelines, trunk pipelines, interconnection pipelines, and distribution pipelines categories. Based on the transported oil products, crude oil pipelines can be fuel oil pipelines, gasoline pipelines or kerosene pipelines. The oil pipeline design includes a network of underground, above-ground, underwater and above-ground communications.
Gas Transmission Pipelines - engineered to transport natural gas and other gases over long distances. Compressor stations along the gas pipeline maintain a constant pressure throughout the network, and distribution stations at the end of the route reduce the pressure to the level necessary to supply consumers.
Hydraulic Pipelines - used for transportation of minerals. Bulk materials and solids are transported under the influence of water flow, whereby coal, gravel and sand are transported over long distances from mines to customers. Furthermore, hydraulic pipelines help in removing wastes from power plants and enrichment plants. Water Supply Pipelines - for transporting drinking and non-potable water. Depending on the water requirements, the water moves from underground pipes to water towers and then to the end-users.
A Drainage System serves to drain off ground and stormwater for construction purposes. Ducting is applied to move air in ventilation and air conditioning systems. Sewer Systems are specially designed to carry wastewater and other waste products and solids. Additionally, there are ducts laid underground for cable transportation purposes.
Steam pipelines are intended for the transfer of steam in thermal and nuclear power plants and industrial facilities. Heat pipes, on the other hand, are utilized to supply steam and hot water for heating systems.
Acid pipelines transport oxygen within industrial enterprises, and intra- as well as inter-workshop pipelines are applied. As for ammonia pipelines, they are specifically designed to pump ammonia.
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ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) provides guidelines for the classification of pipelines based on their intended use and specifies design codes, materials, flange classes, temperature limits, pressure limits, and types of services required for each type.
The different types of pipeline classification are:
1. Process Pipeline: It is mainly used for the distribution of fluids and gases in the industrial manufacturing process. The design code for process pipeline systems is specified in ASME B31.3. It includes guidelines on materials, fabrication, testing, and inspection of pipeline components. The materials that can be used for process pipelines include carbon steel, stainless steel, and other special alloys depending on the application's specific needs. The flange class for pressure ratings in this pipeline is 150 to 2,500.
2. Power Pipeline: It is used in high-pressure boiler applications and is intended to transport steam and water. The design code for power pipeline systems is specified in ASME B31.1 This pipeline requires materials with high temperature and pressure ratings. Common materials used for power pipelines include chrome-moly or low-alloy steels. The flange class for pressure ratings in power pipelines is 150 to 1,500.
3. Oil and Gas Pipeline: It is used for transporting oil and gas products from production sites to refineries and distribution facilities. The design codes for liquid pipeline systems is provided in ASME B31.4, and the design codes for gas transmission and distribution pipeline systems are provided in ASME B31.8 respectively. The materials used for oil and gas pipelines include carbon steel, stainless steel, and other special alloys. The flange class pressure ratings for this pipeline are 150 to 2,500.
4. Building Services Pipeline: It is used for the distribution of fluids and gases within a building, including plumbing, heating, cooling, and fire protection systems. The design code for building services piping systems is specified in ASME B31.9. The materials commonly used for this pipeline are copper, stainless steel, PVC, and CPVC. The flange class pressure ratings for this pipeline are 125-300.
5. Sanitary Pipeline: It is used for conveying potable and process water or liquid food products. The design code for sanitary pipeline systems is specified in ASME BioPharmaceutical Equipment (BPE) standards. The materials used in sanitary pipelines include high-grade stainless steel. The flange class pressure ratings for this pipeline are 150.
The classification and design of the pipeline depend on its intended use. ASME standards provide guidelines on design codes, materials, flange classes, temperature limits, pressure limits, and types of services required for each pipeline type. It is crucial to choose the right pipeline classification and design codes to ensure safe and efficient operation. Proper selection of materials, flange class, and pressure/temperature ratings can significantly impact the reliability and operational lifetime of the pipeline system.
Pipelines in the oil and gas industry face several challenges, including the risk of fractures, corrosion, leaks, and pipeline rupture. Additionally, spills from pipelines can damage the environment, and pipeline accidents can lead to fatalities and significant property damage. Therefore, operators must follow strict procedures and best practices to ensure safe pipeline management and timely detection of problems and risks.But we will discuss this issue in another article.
