Priming Your Pipeline Construction Projects for Success

Pipeline construction projects are integral to moving oil and gas operations forward — and are a key part of powering everyday life virtually everywhere. At FUSED Industries, we understand the pipeline construction process, and know it’s important to have the right operations, materials and workforce in place before the project begins. Even seemingly minor issues can have lasting repercussions on a project timeline, company reputation and the environment as a whole. (Not to mention a company’s bottom line.) Ensuring certain factors, like the ones we outline below, are in place before beginning construction can help to secure the lifespan of a line, as well as guarantee that it meets necessary safety and environmental guidelines.

 

Factoring in Your Installation Options
By the time a pipeline construction project kicks off, materials have been determined, locations identified and any specific details or specifications have been outlined. The next step is ensuring the proper application and installation. Which approach is right for your project and budget? Horizontal directional drilling, for instance, tends to result in less disturbance to the environment around your work site — including traffic patterns — but can be more costly. Meanwhile, traditional open-cut installation techniques, although typically less expensive at the outset, can require pavement removal and additional disruptions that add to overall project costs.

FUSED Tip: We recommend hiring pipeline construction crews with experience in the specific geographic area where your project will take place. Such pros will be familiar with local rules, regulations and even terrain. As such, they can help guide those decisions and ensure the installation portion of your project comes up against fewer unanticipated troubles.

 

Determining Equipment Needs
There are no two ways around it — pipeline construction equipment, although crucial to a successful project, can be costly. Are those added costs something your company plans to take on itself, or is a one-time-use deal the better way to go? Of course, both approaches carry advantages. If similar projects are anticipated in the future, tackling such work on your own can result in savings down the line. More often than not, however, it makes more sense to hire a construction company that has the equipment aspect handled. Not only does that approach take the burden of maintenance, repair and replacement work off your plate, but you don’t have to put in the time and money to ensure your crew is properly trained in its use. After all, when handled improperly, such equipment can be deadly.

FUSED Tip: If you aren’t sure which route makes the most sense for your circumstances, simply ask. Chances are your potential industrial construction companies will be happy to discuss their experiences in terms of such equipment purchases — and can help you gauge what makes the most sense.

 

Assembling the Right Team
So many things can go wrong on a pipeline project — from improper excavation or drilling, to subpar welding skills which lead to leaks — and these problems could create environmental and safety disasters down the road. Having a skilled and licensed crew carrying out your pipeline construction work is key for overall success. Not only will such firms be able to tackle the job with confidence, but in the unlikely event that something does go wrong, they will likely right the situation without added cost to you. 

FUSED Tip: When interviewing teams for the job, ask about their background in the specific work you require — and in the geographic area your work will take place. Consider asking for references, as well.

 

If you have questions on any of the above — or a pipeline project you could use some assistance with — feel free to contact FUSED. We’ve spent decades helping companies execute successful projects, and we look forward to working with you.