Pipeline Integrity
Maintaining Safe Operations
One method we use to inspect large portions of our pipeline infrastructure is in-line inspection technology, or smart pigging. Smart pigs examine pipelines from the inside, usually while the pipeline is in service, and are propelled by the pressure of the natural gas or natural gas liquids in the pipeline itself. Electronic sensors on the pigs inspect the condition of pipeline walls by measuring pipe thickness and corrosion along the line.
Other types of inspections we perform include pressure testing and direct assessments, such as field surveys. Inspections are completed according to the federally required assessment time frames of every seven years for natural gas pipelines and every five years for for natural gas liquids pipelines.
Pipeline Integrity
ONEOK Partners operates approximately 7,000 miles of natural gas transmission pipelines, approximately 7,000 miles of NGL pipelines and approximately 15,000 miles of natural gas gathering pipelines in more than 16 states. Additionally, ONEOK’s natural gas distribution companies operate approximately 3,250 miles of transmission pipelines in three states.
Operating these pipelines in a safe, compliant manner remains a significant priority. Our pipeline control centers closely monitor all pipelines in our system to facilitate safe and efficient operations.
In addition to this 24-hour, seven-day-a-week electronic surveillance, we use a number of inspection methods and processes to mitigate corrosion, minimize the potential for third-party damage and address other outside forces, such as erosion and flooding.
Federal and state regulations also require us to develop, implement and maintain formal integrity-management programs for natural gas and NGL pipelines that cross what are referred to as high-consequence areas, including large populations, navigable waterways and sensitive environmental areas. These regulations require assessments on certain natural gas pipelines at least once every seven years and on NGL pipelines every five years. We have completed or are on schedule to meet these requirements.
We also design, install, test and maintain new pipelines added to our system to meet federal and state regulations and applicable industry standards.