An exploration and production client acquired a 37-mile natural gas pipeline collection system that had been depressurized and shut down for more than two years. Prior to reactivating and bringing the gathering system online, the client needed to bring the pipeline into compliance with government and safety regulations. Although they typically provided these inspection services in house, the client’s lack of manpower led them to hire RETTEW for patrol and inspection services.
RETTEW field staff visually inspected the gathering line, right-of-way, and associated equipment, including valves, drips, and pipeline markers, in preparation for bringing the system online. Our inspectors traversed gathering line segments by foot, truck, and ATV, and documented vegetation, erosion, and pipeline markers; identified broken parts and corrosion; inspected the valves; photographed and documented all compressor sites and pipeline appurtenances; and prepared a report compiling the findings. We ultimately provided the client with recommendations to be implemented prior to charging, testing, and reactivating the gathering system for their New York exploration and production operations.