There are three phases of pipeline construction that include: planning, pipeline installation, and post-construction work. Each stage involves coordinating efforts with technical engineers, laborers, project managers, and general contractors.

Planning pipeline construction is not an easy task. Project owners hire engineers to develop blueprints. The project site is surveyed and subsurface utility engineering methods are used to locate existing pipes.

SUE has been an invaluable tool within the construction industry. These methods use a variety of detection tools to pinpoint the precise location and depth of underground utilities.

Having the ability to find installed pipes lets contractors conduct the job more safely, efficiently, and for less money. Before SUE methods were introduced, pipeline contractors didn\’t have any way to know what was under the ground.

Trenching often resulted in damaged pipes and cut lines, as well as workplace accidents and fatalities. When pipes were discovered after the fact, jobs were delayed while engineers redesigned the system and job costs escalated. SUE methods have removed those factors and have been instrumental in reducing costs while improving workplace safety.

Every element of the project is considered during the design phase. Engineers have to calculate flow rates to determine the type of pipeline needed. Plans have to comply with regulations set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency and state bureaucracies.

Preconstruction planning is also the phase when project owners invite contractors to submit bids. The contractors selected to perform work need to acquire easement rights, appropriate permits, and provide evidence of insurance before breaking ground.

There are three stages that occur during the construction phase. First, contractors have to clear and grade the land so that trucks can deliver pipes and to supply a right-of-way for trenching. Pipes are delivered in segments and are welded together on-site.

Second, trenches are dug and sections of pipe are strung next to the trench. Pipe sections are welded together and a special coating is applied to prevent leaks. Pipes are lowered into trenches and finishing touches are applied.

Third, the pipes undergo testing to make certain they are in good working order before trenches are backfilled and the land restored.

Multiple inspections take place throughout the entire project. Inspectors make certain laborers are engaging in safe construction practices and that contractors have proper licenses, permits and insurance coverage. They also inspect the composition and integrity of pipelines to ensure materials are up to code.

Inspections continue after the project is complete to make certain drainage and irrigation systems are in good condition and to observe the system\’s integrity to prevent future problems.

It\’s recommended to work with pipeline construction contractors that are skilled in the type of installation process and able to coordinate work efforts with other contractors.

Pipeline jobs are classified as dry and wet utility. While some construction companies are skilled in both classifications, the majority focus on one or the other.

Dry utility pipeline contractors perform work related to the installation, repair, or maintenance of pipelines that convey non-liquid materials or used to safeguard utilities from environmental factors.

Wet utility pipeline construction involves working with pipes that transport liquid materials including water, sewer waste, storm water runoff, and petroleum products.

One factor currently affecting the pipeline industry is the shortage of materials used to manufacture HDPE resin. The Japanese tsunami, combined with rising fuel and material costs has resulted in more demand than supply which equates to increased pipeline pricing.

Daniel Locke is the founder of Kana Pipeline and has been providing pipeline construction within southern California since 1984. Kana is an experienced wet utility contractor specializing in fireline, sewer and water pipeline, and storm drainage systems. Learn more at www.KanaPipeline.com.

Daniel Locke is the founder of Kana Pipeline and has been providing pipeline construction within southern California since 1984. Kana is an experienced wet utility contractor specializing in fireline, sewer and water pipeline, and storm drainage systems. Learn more at http://www.KanaPipeline.com.

Author Bio: Daniel Locke is the founder of Kana Pipeline and has been providing pipeline construction within southern California since 1984. Kana is an experienced wet utility contractor specializing in fireline, sewer and water pipeline, and storm drainage systems. Learn more at www.KanaPipeline.com.

Category: Business
Keywords: pipeline construction, pipeline construction companies, pipeline companies, pipeline contractors