Editorial Comment

Modern society would not be possible without the use of pipelines to transport natural gas, crude oil and finished products to demand centers. These products provide much-needed feedstocks for processing operations, as well as fuels for transportation, heating and electricity. The need for additional pipeline systems is imperative, especially with growing economies in many different parts of the world—demand for heating, electricity and cooking are leading to a significantly higher demand for natural gas. To satisfy future demand, new natural gas pipelines systems are being built to transport this commodity from import centers or domestic production areas to demand centers. Presently, Gulf