Drilling Deep for Increased Safety

摘要

Enbridge is continually searching for ways to improve the safety and reliability of its pipeline system- something that often necessitates a proactive approach beyond regulatory requirements. A prime example is the horizontal directional drilling (HDD) pipe replacement project performed under the Mississippi River near St Louis, MO earlier this year. Built in 1948 and purchased by Enbridge in 2004, the Ozark Pipeline includes a crossing of approximately 2,300 feet under the Mississippi. Although regulations require underwater surveys at navigable waterbodies such as this to be carried out every five years, Enbridge began annual inspections in 2010 to monitor issues such as scouring more closely.