EARTH 109
Fundamentals of Shale Energy Development: Geology, Hydraulic Fracturing, and Environmental, Geopolitical and Socio-economic Impacts

Pipeline Construction Steps

Pipeline Construction Steps

Video: Typical Stages of Pipeline Construction (3:25) This video is not narrated.

Click here for text description of Typical Stages of Pipeline Construction.

Typical Stages of Pipeline Construction

  1. Landowners are contacted
  2. Design, permits & approvals
  3. Right of way is prepared
  4. Topsoil is separated
  5. Special river crossing techniques
  6. Environment Protection Measures
  7. Crews string out pipe sections
  8. Trenches are dug
  9. Welders join the pipe sections
  10. All Welds are Inspected
  11. Pipe is lowered into the trench
  12. Soil is replaced
  13. Hydrostatic testing and inline inspection is completed
  14. Land is restored

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Credit: ProVideoDuluthMN

After a pipeline operator obtains the required permits and satisfies the regulatory requirements, construction of the pipeline may begin. Surveying of the intended route is completed, both aerial and land-based, to ensure that no surprises arise during the actual assembly of the pipeline.

Piping being installed in ground
Figure 6.21: Pipeline being installed.
Source: Dave Messersmith

Pipeline Construction Process

  • Planning route, surveying
  • Permitting
  • Acquiring the right of way (ROW)
  • ROW is cleared
  • Topsoil removed, a trench dug
  • "Stringing Pipe"
  • Pipe is welded and contoured
  • Pipe is lowered into a trench
  • Pipe is placed underground and the site is restored
Source: Penn State Extension