Energy and Utilities Oil and Petroleum Systems 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a pipeline 'pig' in crude oil transmission systems?

Accepted Answer

To inspect, clean, or maintain the interior of a pipeline

Answer

Pipeline pigs are devices sent through a pipeline to clean deposits, inspect for corrosion or defects, or separate different products without interrupting flow.

Question 2

What is the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR)?

Accepted Answer

The world's largest government-owned emergency crude oil stockpile stored in underground salt caverns

Answer

The SPR holds hundreds of millions of barrels of crude oil in underground salt caverns along the Gulf Coast and can be released by presidential order during supply disruptions.

Question 3

Which federal agency is primarily responsible for regulating the safety of oil and gas pipelines in the United States?

Accepted Answer

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)

Answer

PHMSA, within the DOT, develops and enforces safety regulations for pipeline transportation of hazardous materials including oil and natural gas.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of a LACT (Lease Automatic Custody Transfer) unit?

Accepted Answer

To automatically measure and transfer legal ownership of oil from producer to pipeline operator

Answer

A LACT unit automatically measures oil volume and quality at the transfer point between the producer's lease and the pipeline, establishing the legal custody transfer.

Question 5

What type of crude oil is characterized by high density, high viscosity, and difficulty flowing at room temperature?

Accepted Answer

Heavy crude

Answer

Heavy crude has low API gravity (typically below 22.3°), high viscosity, and often requires heating or diluents to flow through pipelines.

Energy and Utilities Practice Test

Energy and Utilities Practice Test

Energy and Utilities Oil and Petroleum Systems 2