Introduction to Pipeline Engineering

[FutureAmerican]

Hi all,

I'm going to be starting a new position as a Pipeline Engineer in a few weeks. I have a broad understanding of the process along with some experience in developing welding specifications for pipeline, but was wondering if anyone has any suggestions for good books or links to websites to increase my understanding of the pipeline design and construction process as a whole?

I will be going through an in-house training program with the company, but would like to prepare myself ahead of that if at all possible. I've been working as a traveling Field Engineer for Oil & Gas the past couple of years (in the upstream/completions side), so it'll definitely be nice to get back to a more regular work schedule and see my wife every day! I'm also keen to expand my knowledge to the midstream side too and I'll be pursuing a Master's in Engineering Management next year, now that I'll have time for that. With this job I'll eventually be taking on more management responsibilities, but am initially starting in a technical role to gain a solid understanding of Pipeline Design.

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[zdas04]

You didn't say if the midstream job is gas or liquid. If it is gas, you need to be familiar with ASME B31.8. For liquids ASME B31.4. For the job ASME B31.3 (that is a plant code that keeps getting interjected into gathering and transmission arena's, it is common to build booster stations to B31.3 even though 31.4 and 31.8 have language that says they cover these stations).

No textbook or technical book will take the place of having a current copy of the appropriate pipeline code plus ASME B31.3. It is also a good idea to have your own copy of API 1104 (welding code).

Finally, for mid-stream you need to be very familiar with 49 CFR 192 which is the regulations for onshore pipelines. The PHMSA guys change that code every couple of years to cover more stuff, won't be long until they cover home sprinkler lines. It feels pretty much like a stupid version of ASMT B31.8.

David Simpson, PE
MuleShoe Engineering

"Belief" is the acceptance of an hypotheses in the absence of data.
"Prejudice" is having an opinion not supported by the preponderance of the data.
"Knowledge" is only found through the accumulation and analysis of data.
The plural of anecdote is not "data"

 

[FutureAmerican]

Thanks for the info - the company I'll be working for is pretty big and covers both liquid and gas transportation. I'll give them a call later today and see if there's anything in particular they'd like me to focus on reading prior to starting. I'll have about a week's break between ending the current job and starting the new one so there'll definitely be time for study.