Pipeline surveillance
Each week, pilots of Michigan Wisconsin Pipe Line Co.'s aerial patrol fly over the entire 12,000 mi of the company's pipeline system to discover possible gas leaks and prevent accidental encroachment of pipeline right-of-way. (Leaks are uncommon, but as many as 10 potential trespassing incidents can occur along a route in a week.) Following the pipeline is facilitated by the warmth emitted by the line which affects the plant life directly above it. Gas leaks may be indicated by a patch of brown vegetation or by sediment brought to water surfaces by escaping gas bubbles. The 1- and 2-engine patrol planes, which receive special permission from federal authorities to fly at low altitudes, undergo 100-h safety checks and frequent overhauls.
- OSTI ID:
- 5693053
- Journal Information:
- Am. Gas Assoc. Mon.; (United States), Vol. 58
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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