Consider key factors in pipeline wall thickness calculation and selection

S. Zardynezhad, Toyo Engineering Canada Ltd., Calgary, Canada Pipeline wall thickness plays a significant role in mitigating the risk of loss of mechanical integrity and pipeline failure—scenarios that pose danger to people and to the environment. Many factors must be considered in calculating and selecting the economic thickness for pipelines, as the limited factors considered in a code thickness formula are not sufficient. Here, the wall thickness calculation of pipelines is based on international codes and standards, and lessons learned in pipeline thickness calculation and selection are discussed. Pipeline failure can be deadly. On September 9, 2010, at 18:11 PDT, a 30-in. natural gas