Pipelines

A company must ensure the reliable operation and safe use of chemical pipelines. Pipeline requirements are outlined in legislation regarding chemical safety and pressure equipment, and these requirements cover the design, manufacturing, placement, and operation of pipelines.

The pipeline customer and manufacturer must agree in writing on the responsibilities of the pipeline delivery and the technical information to be provided to the manufacturer. This information is needed for the classification and risk assessment of the pipeline.

Chemical pipelines are classified based on their content, pressure, and diameter. The classification determines the appropriate conformity assessment procedure, or module. According to chemical regulations, at least a Class I module must be used for the assessment of all pipelines containing hazardous chemicals.

The manufacturer is responsible for the following:

• Pipeline design
• Manufacturing
• Risk assessment
• Preparation of technical documentation and operating instructions
• CE marking of the pipeline
• Drafting of the declaration of conformity
• Providing documents to the customer as agreed in the contract.

Harmonized EN and national standards are available for the implementation of technical details for both metallic and plastic pipelines.

An inspection body assesses the compliance of the pipeline if it falls under PED Classes II-III. The inspection body also reviews the pipeline during operation at the request of the customer.

Pipeline Manufacturing Phases:

PHASE 1: Pipeline Procurement and Responsibilities

• Define in writing the responsible manufacturer, the scope of delivery, and the technical specification.
• Agree on the documents to be provided and the party responsible for performing the risk assessment.

PHASE 2: Pipeline Classification and Module Selection

• Determine the content, pressure, and diameter of the pipeline.
• Classify the pipeline according to pressure equipment regulations.
• Apply at least Class I requirements to all chemical pipelines.
• Select the module to be used in the design and manufacturing process.
• An inspection body is involved in the assessment of Class II and III modules.

PHASE 3: Design

• Assess the risks associated with the pipeline.
• Consider specific requirements, such as placement, protection, equipment, and safety devices.
• Design the pipeline to meet the requirements and utilize standards.
• Ensure the qualifications of welders and methods.
• Prepare technical documentation as the basis for manufacturing.

PHASE 4: Manufacturing, Inspection, and Final Evaluation

• Use manufacturing methods that meet the requirements and apply harmonized standards.
• Take into account possible changes needed during manufacturing and installation, and update documents accordingly.
• Perform required inspections.
• Conduct a final inspection of the pipeline, including a review of the technical documentation, pressure testing, and inspection of safety devices.
• Mark the pipeline with its content and flow direction.
• Affix the CE mark to the pipeline if it falls under PED Classes I-III according to pressure equipment legislation.
• Draft the declaration of conformity.

PHASE 5: Documentation and Commissioning

• Compile the design and manufacturing documents into a chemical pipeline dossier.
• Collect operating instructions and update as necessary.
• Prepare a plan for periodic inspections and preventive maintenance for the pipeline.
• Ensure staff training.

PHASE 6: Operation and Maintenance of the Pipeline

• Operate and maintain the pipeline according to instructions and plans.
• Perform necessary repairs and modifications in compliance with pressure equipment regulations.
• Attach documents to the chemical pipeline dossier and remember the declaration of conformity.