eroded pipeline

Posted by & filed under Pipe Corrosion.

Every year pipeline corrosion costs the U.S. about $9 billion. An eroded pipeline can cause serious damage and costly repairs. Here are three problems that an eroded pipeline can cause that you need to know about.

Stop in Services

One of the most expensive things an eroded pipeline can cause is a stoppage in services. According to the Department of Energy, there are over 2.5 million miles of pipelines in the U.S. that support the entire U.S. population. An eroded pipe along any of those lines will cause a stoppage in services.

Erosion puts an entire line at risk of catastrophic failure that can affect millions of people. Pipelines that carry petroleum and gas are the backbone of the infrastructure in the United States. Eroded pipelines are a recipe for disaster when it comes to providing continuous service.

Environmental Problems

There is no room for error when it comes to protecting the environment. No company wants to be associated with a pipeline failure accident that has affected the environment. Even the smallest of accidents can have a heavy toll on the environment. Preventing erosion of the pipeline is one of the easiest ways to prevent pipeline accidents and protect the environment.

Proper maintenance, proactive replacement, and using high-quality materials are essential in preventing erosion and accidents. It is imperative that erosion control practices are in place. One of the best ways to do this is by installing a pipe wear pad around pipes to help prevent erosion.

Injuries and Fatalities

According to ProPublica, since 1986, 4,000 people have been injured and 500 hundred people have died because of pipeline accidents. Managing a pipeline correctly by taking steps to prevent total failures can save lives and prevent workplace injuries. An eroded pipeline is a risk to everyone that comes in contact with it. It is only a matter of time before there is a complete failure.

Pipelines Are Still The Safest Way To Move Gas and Petroleum

While an eroded pipeline can be a huge risk and should be addressed immediately, pipelines are still the safest way to transport both gas and petroleum products. It is estimated that pipelines are 70 times safer than other conveyances.

Improving the reliability of these pipelines starts with the industry being more proactive in caring for lines and using better materials to construct and repair the lines. Pipe wear pads are a great tool to ward off erosion. It doesn’t matter whether you run a large company or own a small family home, protecting your piping from erosion is crucial. Give us a call today to learn more about our products.

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