Pipeline construction steps for beginners

PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION
STEPS FOR BEGINNERS
SCOPE: ONSHORE GAS PIPELINE
Chukwuma Anyanwu, PMP, CCP
Project Planning & Control Specialist
Email: chugab2k2@yahoo.com

The construction of a pipeline looks much like a
moving assembly line. A large project typically is
broken into manageable lengths called
“spreads,” and utilizes highly specialized and
qualified workgroups. Each spread is composed
of various crews, each with its own
responsibilities. As one crew completes its work,
the next crew moves into position to complete
its piece of the construction process. Here are
the stages of the construction process.

ROUTE SURVEY
It starts with the pre-construction survey. The route of
the pipeline is marked out and staked. Environmental
features and existing structures along the proposed
route are clearly defined.
Author: Chukwuma Anyanwu, PMP, CCP | Area: Project Planning & Control Specialist | Email: chugab2k2@yahoo.com

ROUTE
CLEARING
The route of the
pipeline is prepared
by clearing and
grading the Right of
Way off vegetation,
unfavorable rocks in
preparation for
earth-moving
activities.

DITCHING
A trench is dug
along the span of
the pipeline route.
The excavated soil is
temporarily
stockpiled on the
non-work side of
the trench. In rare
cases trenching is
done as a post-
welding activity.

STRINGING OF PIPES
Individual pre-fabricated pipes sections are strung
along and adjacent to the excavated trench. This pipes
are strung on the work-side of the trench so they are
accessible to construction personnel.

WELDING
OF PIPES
After stringing, the
individual pipes are
placed on temporary
support, aligned and
welded end-to-end
along the edge of the
trench.

NON-DESTRUCTIVE
TESTING
After welding all welded
joints are then visually and
radio graphically checked to
confirm there are no defects.
Where there are defects, re-
welds are made to correct
them.

FIELD JOINT
COATING
The welded joints are
coated along the
entire pipeline. The
coatings are also
inspected
electronically to
locate and repair any
coating faults or
voids.

LOWER-IN &
BACKFILL-IN
The pipe assembly is lowered
into the trench and the earlier
excavated soil is backfilled into
the trench to bury the pipeline.

PRE-COMMISION TESTING
The pipe assembly is hydrostatically tested. This
involves introduction of water and holding at high
pressure over a predetermined testing duration.

SITE RESTORATION
Finally, measures are taken to
reinstate the site locations
along the route back to its
natural condition.
END

Pipeline construction steps for beginners

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