Designing and engineering a pipeline and associated facilities is a lengthy and detailed process.
Pipeline construction consists of a number of distinct activities that each contribute to the long-term integrity of the pipeline, as well as minimize the impact to the environment and to the landowner.
Pipeline integrity starts with sourcing the materials – oil pipelines are generally constructed from steel with a diameter typically ranging from 100 mm to 1,200 mm (4 inch to 48 inch). The highest quality steel is used. It is manufactured to stringent Canadian Standard Association (CSA) specifications, which include chemistry and material properties. Through production, transportation to the job site and installation, quality management processes ensure the pipe fully meets the requirements.
We are using three distinct construction methodologies in the Trans Mountain Expansion Project to place the pipe in the ground: conventional construction (often referred to as baselay), trenchless construction and water crossing construction.