A: Not according to this 2012 INGAA study:
- 85% of pipeline incidents reported to PHMSA from 2002-2009 occurred irrespective of the age of the pipeline, with just 15% related in some way to the age of the pipeline.
- The properties of the steels which comprise natural gas pipelines do not change with time; that is, pipe does not “wear out.”
- The fitness of a pipeline for service does not necessarily expire at some point in time.
- The integrity of those pipelines for which the fitness for service may degrade with the passage of time can be assessed periodically. Timely repairs – and other mitigation efforts – based on those assessments will ensure the pipeline’s continued fitness for service.
- A well-maintained and periodically assessed pipeline can safely transport natural gas indefinitely.
Bud's Offshore Energy (BOE) 