November 2025, Vol. 252, No. 11

North Dakota’s Bakken Shale continues to produce more than 1 million barrels per day, but analysts say future growth hinges on technology advances, enhanced oil recovery, and stronger infrastructure investment.

Current Magnetometry Inspection (CMI) uses multi-frequency AC fields, AI/ML, and dense aboveground sensing to 3D-map pipelines, calculate EIR-free, and distinguish passivated versus actively corroding defects—enabling targeted digs on unpiggable lines without disrupting CP or operations.

Pipeline operators are turning to thermal insulative coatings (TICs) to combat corrosion under insulation (CUI) and prevent heat loss. These advanced coatings provide long-term protection, improve energy efficiency, and eliminate moisture-trapping insulation systems prone to corrosion and failure.

Incorrect internal diameter specifications in insulating gasket kits can cause electrical bridging and galvanic corrosion at pipeline flanges. Saudi Aramco engineers explain how proper bore sizing and torque control are critical to maintaining electrical isolation and long-term integrity.

A new reliability study from Universidad Nacional de Colombia analyzes how slow crack growth (SCG) and burial design variables—such as soil class, depth of cover, and trench width—affect the long-term performance of HDPE pipelines. Using Monte Carlo simulations and machine learning, researchers identify key factors influencing pipeline failure risk.

Pipe-in-pipe (PiP) systems are moving beyond offshore use and emerging as a safer, more efficient option for transporting LNG, LPG, ammonia and hydrogen onshore. Combining advanced insulation, structural strength and real-time leak detection, modern PiP designs deliver reliability across complex and cryogenic environments.

Emerson’s clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeters measure natural gas volume and composition without process penetrations. By calculating compressibility, molar mass and BTU value in real time, the non-invasive systems provide accurate, low-maintenance solutions for gas quality and flow monitoring across pipeline networks.

AI-powered geospatial analytics are helping oil and gas operators detect leaks, monitor methane emissions, and identify right-of-way risks before disasters occur. By improving risk management, the technology enables producers to negotiate lower insurance premiums and reduce costly environmental incidents.

Oil and gas infrastructure faces growing cybersecurity threats from ransomware, nation-state actors and digital intrusions targeting operational systems. As OT and IT networks become increasingly connected, experts outline key strategies to reduce vulnerabilities and protect critical energy assets in the digital age.

The latest innovations in pipeline technology are driving improvements in safety, integrity and operational performance. From abrasion-resistant wraps and non-weld repair systems to advanced monitoring, coating and isolation solutions, these new products help operators protect critical assets and streamline field operations.