Environmental considerations of pipeline installation methods through watercourses
Subject
Abstract
Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is a trenchless method used during pipeline installation that is effective at minimizing disturbance on the surrounding environment. The
traditional method of pipeline installation under watercourses is termed isolated open-cut, where surface and subsurface disturbance is created during pipeline construction. This thesis aims to understand the decision-making tools utilized during pipeline construction projects in the oil and
gas industry where new pipeline construction is traversing watercourses along a pipeline route. Case studies were developed to analyze pre-construction planning and construction
considerations made in relation to the physical properties of the studied site locations to determine which crossing method is most suitable for each site. Geographical challenges, terrain,
regulatory requirements, economic costs and time constraints influence pipeline construction when determining if HDD technology or isolated open-cut is the most suitable installation
method for a specific site.