Natural Gas Systems & Pipelines Flashcards
7 cards from real BGE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Natural Gas Systems & Pipelines flashcards as text
What is the typical operating pressure range for natural gas low-pressure distribution mains serving residential customers?
Answer: 0.25 to 2 psig
Low-pressure residential distribution mains typically operate between 0.25 and 2 psig, which is safe for household appliances.
Which material is most commonly used for new natural gas distribution pipelines installed in residential areas?
Answer: Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene pipe is the industry standard for new residential gas distribution due to its corrosion resistance, flexibility, and ease of fusion joining.
What odorant is added to natural gas to make leaks detectable, and what does it smell like?
Answer: Mercaptan (THT) — rotten egg or sulfur smell
Mercaptan (tetrahydrothiophene) is injected into natural gas to produce the distinctive rotten egg smell that alerts people to leaks.
What is the primary purpose of cathodic protection systems installed on underground steel gas pipelines?
Answer: To prevent electrochemical corrosion of the pipe
Cathodic protection applies an electrical current to counteract the electrochemical reactions that cause corrosion on buried metal pipelines.
Which federal regulation establishes the minimum safety standards for natural gas distribution pipeline systems?
Answer: 49 CFR Part 192
49 CFR Part 192 (Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline) is the federal regulation governing safety standards for natural gas pipeline systems.
What is the primary function of a pressure regulating station (PRS) in a natural gas distribution system?
Answer: To reduce high transmission pressure to safe distribution pressure
A pressure regulating station steps down high-pressure gas from transmission lines to the lower operating pressures required for safe distribution to customers.
In a natural gas distribution system, what does the term 'Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure' (MAOP) refer to?
Answer: The highest pressure at which a pipeline segment may be continuously operated
MAOP is the highest pressure at which a pipeline or segment is legally authorized to operate, as established by design, testing, and federal regulations.