Natural Gas Systems Flashcards
6 cards from real Energy and Utilities practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Natural Gas Systems flashcards as text
What is 'peak shaving' in natural gas utility operations?
Answer: Using stored gas during high-demand periods to supplement pipeline supply
Peak shaving uses stored LNG or propane-air systems to supplement pipeline gas supply during periods of extremely high demand.
What is the primary safety concern when excavating near underground natural gas distribution lines?
Answer: Pipeline rupture causing gas release and fire/explosion risk
Striking a gas line during excavation can cause a rupture leading to gas release, fire, or explosion, making 811 call-before-you-dig mandatory.
Which material is commonly used for modern natural gas distribution piping in residential service lines?
Answer: Polyethylene (PE) plastic
Polyethylene pipe is widely used for gas distribution because it resists corrosion, is flexible, and is easy to fuse-join.
What does a pressure regulator do in a natural gas distribution system?
Answer: Reduces high transmission pressure to safe delivery pressure for customers
Pressure regulators step down gas from high transmission pressure to the lower pressures safe for distribution mains and service lines.
What is 'cathodic protection' used for in the natural gas industry?
Answer: Preventing corrosion of metallic underground pipelines
Cathodic protection uses electrical current to prevent electrochemical corrosion of buried metallic pipe, extending pipeline life.
What does 'therm' measure in natural gas billing?
Answer: 100,000 Btu of energy
One therm equals 100,000 British Thermal Units (Btu), the unit most residential gas utilities use for billing purposes.