Piping vs Pipeline – What’s the Difference?

Piping and pipeline are frequently used interchangeably in the oil and gas industry. They are not the same, though. Both play vital roles in moving liquids like chemicals, water, natural gas, and crude oil, yet they are completely unique in terms of construction, function, and use. Engineers, project managers, and EPC contractors must comprehend these distinctions.

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What is piping in oil & gas?

Piping systems are networks of pipes and other parts such as oil refineries, petrochemical plants, offshore platforms, LNG terminals, and gas processing units.

• Purpose: Piping connects process equipment such as pumps, compressors, separators, and heat exchangers, ensuring fluid flow during processing.

• Scope: Limited to the boundaries of the facility or plant.

• Design Standards: Governed by ASME B31.3 Process Piping Code.

• Components: Includes pipes, elbows, reducers, valves, flanges, gaskets, and fittings.

• Fluids Transported: Steam, hydrocarbons, water, and chemicals.

• Length: Typically short runs, confined within plant areas.

What is a pipeline in oil & gas?

A pipeline is a long-distance transportation infrastructure used to transmit large amounts of oil, gas, or refined petroleum products from one site to another, sometimes across countries or continents.

• Purpose: Pipelines are designed for bulk transmission over large distances.

• Scope: Extends beyond facility limits, through states, deserts, offshore areas, and even mountains.

• Design standards: Governed by ASME B31.4 for liquid pipelines and ASME B31.8 for gas transmission pipelines.

• Components: Pumping/compressor stations, pig launchers and receivers, block valves, and leak detection systems are examples of components.

• Fluids transported: Crude oil, natural gas, refined fuels (diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel), and water.

• Length: Varies from hundreds to thousands of kilometers.

Why the Difference Matters in Oil & Gas Projects?

1. Project Planning: While pipelines require right-of-way planning and cross-country route design, piping demands plant layout skills.

2. Costing: Pipes need significant infrastructure investment; piping is included in the cost of EPC projects.

3. Maintenance: Pipelines require corrosion monitoring, leak detection, and pigging operations, while piping needs regular inspections and replacements within facilities.

4. Regulations: There are several codes, safety regulations, and compliance requirements.

Conclusion:

Although they are not the same, pipelines and piping constitute the foundation of fluid transportation systems in the oil and gas industry. While pipelines provide long-distance bulk transit across regions, piping focuses on internal connectivity inside plants. Both facilitate the effective refining, processing, and distribution of natural gas and oil, making them essential components of the worldwide energy supply chain.