An oil pipeline is a system of pipes used to transport oil to refineries or to seaports. In the case of gas transportation, the procedure used is the gas pipeline.
The idea of this system is based on an engineering work that the Romans already developed to transport water: the aqueduct.
An oil pipeline is a complex technical infrastructure in which underground pipes are channeled and crude storage tanks and stations are installed to drive it.
The structure of a Pipeline
From a technical point of view, the construction of an oil pipeline involves certain basic elements: pumping stations powered by turbines, turbo generators, the lining of the pipe to prevent oil leaks, anticorrosive systems, earthworks and a long etcetera. .
The complexity of this infrastructure is based on three variables: it is a work that can affect a territory of hundreds of kilometers, for its construction it is necessary to combine different technical disciplines and the participation of professionals from very diverse fields and, finally, Like any infrastructure, there is an environmental impact that must be assessed.
The environmental impact
Some pipelines cross multiple nations and their construction is key to the economy of oil-producing countries. However, its implementation implies an alteration of the different ecosystems, which can be affected in several ways (the expulsion of a species from a territory, its definitive extinction, alteration of the natural properties of the soil and many others).
Analyze how to avoid environmental impact
To minimize potential risks, an environmental impact study is prepared in such a way as to minimize or eliminate any inconvenience that may occur. In this sense, it is not necessary to think exclusively about the natural environment, but some communities can also be victims of these infrastructures. On the other hand, the negative impact can affect archaeological sites or circulation systems.
Although the economic benefit of an oil pipeline may be evident, in the feasibility studies prior to its construction it is advisable to assess a possible alternative that is viable and that avoids the aforementioned risks (for example, the transportation of crude through tank trucks).
