Saturation threshold in a multi-pipeline corridor expansion project

TransCanada PipeLine Ventures Ltd. Partnership, on behalf of NOVA Chemicals Corporation, constructed a 273.1-mm (10-inch) ethylene pipeline within an existing multi-pipeline corridor between two petrochemical plants in the Joffre area, east of Red Deer, Alberta. The ethylene pipeline was constructed within a 10-m (33-foot) wide area between two existing operating pipelines. The pipeline crossed in and out of the corridor seven (7) times between the two petrochemical plants. The objective of this paper will be to discuss thresholds and related saturation indicators arising from construction in a multi-pipeline corridor. The paper will evaluate the project-related communication with the regulatory agency, owner and contractor, the atypical planning required, and the specific use of certain construction equipment, such as Low Ground Pressure (LGP) dozers and backhoes to conserve topsoil, for safe construction of this pipeline within this multi-pipeline corridor. Environmental and safety concerns were met during construction by maintaining equivalent land capability and preserving the integrity of the operating pipelines within the corridor. The saturation point for the multi-pipeline corridor was based on stakeholder, environmental, and constructability thresholds. These thresholds may be useful in the assessment and planning of pipelines within other multi-pipeline corridors.