Ever wondered how the liquid in the pipelines flows, or who controls them and when? The answer is fairly simple— pipelines operate all-day, everyday with the help of powerful pumps, oil additives that move the oil with less resistance and the laws of physics. The round-the-clock operations are monitored 24-hours per day, seven days per week, 365 days a year by well trained personnel.

Through the use of advanced technology, pipeline operators can watch the rate, pressure and movement of product at points along the system. Pipeline controllers watch for inconsistencies, monitor instruments, and evaluate pressure and flow rates that may require additional investigation if evidence of a possible leak is detected. While every pipeline company is working to achieve incident-free operations, accidents do happen. In the case of an accident, pipeline operators are trained to shut down pipeline systems quickly and safely.

Pipeline maintenance crews also work to ensure the integrity of pipeline infrastructure. Qualified personnel hired or contracted by the pipeline company assure that welding operations, valve inspections, pipeline repairs, corrosion prevention system checks and electronic equipment maintenance (among many other functions) are performed safely and according to pre-established procedures. These people work on the daily maintenance of the system in addition to assisting with any major pipeline repair and replacement projects. Pipeline employees are also trained in emergency response procedures and work with local emergency responders if a pipeline accident were to occur.

This chapter of the web-site is dedicated to providing you with more information about the daily operations of a pipeline system. To learn more about the components of a pipeline, the regulations by which operators are required to operate by and the many pipeline operators and maintenance professionals that keep pipeline systems operating, check out this section.

More information on the liquid petroleum pipeline industry is continually being developed and added to Pipeline 101. Please visit us often.