Dr. Klaus Ritter

The tragic incident in Mexico makes it clear that pipeline tapping is becoming an increasing problem. A problem that not only costs human lives and causes enormous material damage, but also a problem that undermines public confidence in the pipeline transport systems and their operators.

Large Transport System Operator with their technology subsidiaries from Asia and Eastern Europe (e.g. Transneft, Sinopec and others) are pushing their way into the markets in North America and Western Europe, says Dr. Klaus Ritter in his Editorial for Pipeline Technology Journal.

When we think of the reports about the pipeline accident in Massachusetts, we first think of those affected by the accident who suffered physical damage or even died.

Globalization means that many countries and regions, which quasi have hitherto been pre-industrialized, are striving to strengthen their economic base by bringing them closer to the international level of industry. Thereby the coverage of energy and water requirements via pipelines always plays a decisive role.

Systematically collected state-of-the-art technologies at a glance

High pressure pipelines for oil, gas and water are often crossing several frontiers and geomorphological obstacles. Those pipelines have to be safe, reliable and durable to ensure a profitable and commonly accepted operation. Moreover, environmental sustainability becomes more important with each new pipeline project.

The transportation of fluids and gases in pipelines is still increasing all over the world and with very good reason: Pipelines are the safest and most economical transportation systems for long distances.