Introduction

In the previous chapters we have discussed design, construction and commissioning of cross-country pipelines. However, all the trouble taken in proper design and high quality construction is justified only if the line is operated in such a way that it performs as safely and efficiently as its design envisaged. This also depends on its proper maintenance in order to have a long and trouble-free life. For this it is necessary for the operation and maintenance (O&M) department of any pipeline to formulate and establish a procedure for its smooth operation. They should also lay down a maintenance system that would ensure that the pipeline performs at its maximum productive efficiency for at least its designed lifetime, if not longer.

The task of the operation and maintenance personnel of a pipeline is to transport a product, or products, from the place of supply to the destination. They have to ensure that there is no loss of the product/s and that the availability of the system is no less than what has been considered in the design. Also safety should be high priority – safety of the plant and machinery, safety of the O&M staff and the safety of the people living along the route of the pipeline. Last, but not the least, the O&M staff should be continually prepared to cope with any emergency that may arise.