Why Do Pipelines Move Underground?
Pipelines which carry both liquid and gas are used in 129 countries to meet their domestic and industrial energy demands. In 2019 a total of 7,830 km of pipelines are laid which equals to one-fifth of the earth’s circumference. In 2024, the total length of oil and gas pipelines will probably increase from 1.89 million km to 2.03 million km globally. We can spot the number of pipelines moving around only through surveys and reports, because most of the pipelines are running underground.
The underground pipeline system is determined by various factors. The pipeline route is one of the factors, since the pipeline moves through rocky mountains and populated areas. In such cases, the pipelines are buried underground in about 30 inches. The oil and gas industry distribution pipelines measure from 6 to 16 inches in diameter. These heavy pipelines are usually built with carbon steel and buried underground 30 inches deep from the ground level. The depth of the pipeline is determined by the location, and in populated areas, for example, the pipeline should be buried around 36 inches deep, and when crossing water 48 inches deep. The distribution pipelines should be 24 inches deep and service pipelines should be 12 inches deep from the ground level. These regulations are intended to prevent the damage to sewers or the public that could lead to explosions.
The other factor is, if the pipelines are placed on the ground, they will be exposed to varying weather conditions and they may erode by muddy water during the rainy season. This damages the pipe and shortens its lifespan. When underground, the pipes are coated with Polyurethane Coating to prevent it from corrosion providing much longer durability to the pipes and if they route deep, the external caused damages can be prevented. Pipeline companies believe this underground system as safer and easier in both planning and operation and consequently adopt to this method.
