Pipeliners Podcast

The Pipeliners Podcast is the source of industry information for pipeline professionals. This is a weekly podcast with new episodes released every Tuesday. Each week, host Russel Treat welcomes industry-leading experts and insightful guests to share their knowledge about specific pipeline topics in an informative, conversational setting. Each episode covers topics that include alarm management, compliance, control room management, cybersecurity, HMI and SCADA, inspection, integrity, leak detection, measurement, pipeline history, pipeline technology, regulatory issues, and more.

Episode 363: Driving Operations Value through Digital with Doug Warren & John Krajewski

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Doug Warren and John Krajewski of AVEVA join to discuss the evolution and significance of digital transformation in pipeline operations, including breaking down data silos and addressing industry challenges like system integration and operational complexity. The conversation highlights the importance of identifying actionable steps toward modernization while emphasizing the potential for improved efficiency, safety, and environmental performance through digital innovation. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

11-19
42:44

Episode 362: Forecasting Demand for a Peak Day with Tom Quinn and Greg Merkel

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Tom Quinn and Greg Merkel from Marquette Energy Analytics return to discuss the importance of peak demand forecasting for natural gas utilities, especially in preparation for extreme weather events. The episode explores how accurate demand modeling helps ensure utilities can maintain reliable service on peak days, delving into methods of historical data analysis, customer behavior modeling, and regulatory considerations. The conversation also highlights the balance between mathematical precision and the need to communicate complex data clearly to regulatory bodies and stakeholders. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

11-12
31:32

Episode 361: Building a Forecast Model for Gas Demand with Tom Quinn and Greg Merkel

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Tom Quinn and Greg Merkel from Marquette Energy Analytics join to discuss their approach to gas demand forecasting. They discuss the origins of their business, which evolved from a university research lab to a standalone company, and explore the complexities of building accurate forecast models. Tom and Greg also explain the factors that influence gas demand, such as weather patterns and calendar events, and share insights on managing unusual situations like the COVID-19 pandemic in their forecasting models. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

11-05
41:36

Episode 360: LDAR Final Rule with Keith Coyle

In this podcast episode, Keith Coyle from Babst Calland discusses the final stages of the Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) rule and its regulatory journey. The conversation provides insights into the process, including the role of federal offices like the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Gas Pipeline Advisory Committee (GPAC), while also exploring the complexities surrounding regulatory reviews and implications for the pipeline industry. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

10-29
39:16

Episode 359: Management of Change - a Key Component of Pipeline Safety

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat dives into the topic of management of change (MOC) and its critical role in pipeline safety management. Drawing on insights from recent industry discussions and conferences, the episode explores how MOC applies across different operational areas, contrasts it with other industries like plant management, and addresses the complexities of departmental versus enterprise-wide MOC processes. The episode also touches on ongoing challenges and solutions being considered at EnerSys to streamline MOC implementation. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

10-22
16:26

Episode 358: Safely Purging Gas Pipelines with Joshua Ott

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat speaks with Joshua Ott of Crazeweld about safely purging pipelines. Joshua shares his journey to developing innovative tools for gas purging, including his air mover device, and discusses the challenges and best practices for safely handling gas purging during pipeline operations. The conversation offers insights into standardizing tools and practices across the industry to improve safety and efficiency in these critical processes. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.   

10-15
30:41

Episode 357: API 1187, Recommended Practice for Managing Landslide Hazards with Mark Piazza & Andy Duncan

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast features Mark Piazza from API and Andy Duncan from Enbridge discussing the new API Recommended Practice 1187, focused on managing landslide hazards for pipeline integrity. The conversation covers the development of this standard, its key elements, and the industry collaboration that went into creating it, while also highlighting the practical, adaptable approach operators can take to mitigate geotechnical risks effectively. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions.   

10-08
29:20

Episode 356: Considerations in Alarm Management with Russel Treat

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Russel Treat dives into key considerations for alarm management in pipeline operations, drawing on his years of personal experience. The episode covers the challenges of defining alarm severity, rationalizing alarms, and navigating the technical complexities of SCADA systems. Additionally, the episode highlights best practices for ensuring alarms are meaningful, prioritizing critical alarms, and optimizing SCADA for effective alarm management. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

10-01
30:22

Episode 355: Approaches to CO2 Measurement with Chris Carville

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Chris Carville of SCS Technologies joins to talk about approaches to CO2 measurement.  Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

09-24
37:44

Episode 354: Regulatory Update and Recent GPA and INGAA Cases with Keith Coyle

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by returning guest Keith Coyle of Babst Calland. The episode includes a regulatory update and discussions on the recent GPA and INGAA cases.  Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

09-17
35:20

Episode 353: Remote Power where the Sun Don’t Shine with Andre Scholtz

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Andre Scholtz from Solarcraft returns to discuss powering remote sites where solar energy isn't viable. The conversation explores alternatives like generators, fuel cells, and wind turbines, diving into the challenges of selecting and maintaining appropriate power sources for remote operations. The episode highlights key considerations around equipment maintenance, fuel sources, and energy storage, offering practical insights for optimizing off-grid power solutions. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

09-10
34:39

Episode 352: Hybrid Solutions for Remote Power with Andre Scholtz

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Andre Scholtz from Solarcraft returns to discuss hybrid solutions for remote power systems, particularly in challenging environments. The conversation covers the fundamentals of hybrid power, the various energy sources that can be combined, and the critical considerations for designing reliable systems. The discussion emphasizes the importance of thoughtful design to ensure cost-effectiveness and operational reliability, especially in remote or harsh locations. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

09-03
29:04

Episode 351: Alternative Approaches to Powering Remote Valves with Andre Scholtz

In this episode, Russel and Andre discuss the challenges and solutions related to powering remote actuated valves in the context of new U.S. regulations. The conversation highlights key considerations for implementing electric valve actuators, particularly in remote locations, and explores the complexities of using solar power, battery banks, and pneumatic systems to meet regulatory requirements. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

08-27
29:51

Episode 350: Optimizing Battery Life with Andre Scholtz

In this episode, Russel and Andre discuss the critical factors in optimizing battery life for remote and field applications. They explore the importance of selecting the right battery chemistry, such as lead-acid versus lithium, based on the specific application needs.  The conversation covers how environmental conditions like temperature, discharge depth, and the configuration of batteries (series vs. parallel) can significantly impact battery longevity. Andre emphasizes the importance of regular testing and monitoring to ensure reliability and prevent premature failure. The episode provides practical insights for maintaining battery health and extending operational life in demanding environments.   Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

08-20
30:40

Episode 349: Leak Detection and Repair on Coffee with Jim and James

This episode of the Pipeliners Podcast is a rebroadcast of Russel Treat's appearance on a recent episode of Coffee with Jim and James featuring their conversation around leak detection and repair (LDAR) in the pipeline industry. They explore the complexities of detecting and managing leaks of various sizes, the challenges operators face under new regulations, and the importance of effective technology and workflow solutions. The conversation also touches on the broader industry concerns, including the need for knowledge transfer to the next generation and the role of technology in enhancing safety and training. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

08-13
29:06

Episode 348: 811 Day, DIRT Report, Damage Prevention Action Center with Sarah Magruder Lyle

This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Sarah Magruder Lyle going over 8/11 Day and its importance. Sarah discusses different tools and resources available such as DIRT and DPAC to aid in proper digging practices. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

08-06
29:46

Episode 347: API Energy4Vets Program with Randall Stremmel and Andri Orphanides

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat is joined by Randall Stremmel, President of Pittsburgh Mineral & Environmental Technology (PMET), and Andri Orphanides from the American Petroleum Institute (API) to discuss the Energy4Veterans program.  They explore the program's inception, its efforts to engage with veterans, and how it helps them transition into the oil and gas industry by leveraging their military skills. The conversation highlights the importance of providing veterans with certification opportunities to build rewarding careers in the energy sector. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

07-30
39:36

Episode 346: Pipelining from a First Responders Perspective with Jack Willingham

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat speaks with Jack Willingham, the Emergency Management Director of Yazoo County, Mississippi, about the critical intersection of first responders and pipeline operations. They discuss Jack's experience with the Satartia CO2 pipeline rupture and the significant gap between first responders' preparedness and pipeline operators' communication. Jack emphasizes the importance of proactive engagement and comprehensive training to enhance public safety and ensure effective response to pipeline incidents. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

07-23
27:17

Episode 345: Role of the Attorney in Pipeline Safety with Vince Murchison

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat interviews Vince Murchison of the Murchison Law Firm to discuss the significant role of attorneys in pipeline safety. Vince shares his career journey, insights into pipeline legal work, and the complexities of regulatory compliance and enforcement processes in the pipeline industry. The conversation also touches on stakeholder engagement, the adjudication process, and the importance of clear, persuasive communication in legal and regulatory contexts. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

07-16
37:34

Episode 344: Designing Reliable Field UPS Power with Andre Scholtz

In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Russel Treat welcomes back Andre Scholtz from Solarcraft to discuss designing reliable uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) for field applications. They delve into the differences between UPS systems and solar power supplies, the importance of understanding load requirements, and the various types of UPS systems and their applications. Russel and Andre emphasize the importance of understanding the specific requirements and environmental conditions when designing UPS systems. Proper design, monitoring, and maintenance can significantly enhance the reliability and longevity of these systems in the field. Visit PipelinePodcastNetwork.com for a full episode transcript, as well as detailed show notes with relevant links and insider term definitions. 

07-09
32:23

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