Objective Upon achieving independent operation of trunk pipelines from large state-owned oil and gas enterprises, a new pattern of “one pipeline network nationwide” for oil and gas will be established. The natural gas pipeline network, as a storage and transportation network that has the most complex physical structure, is facing numerous challenges in planning, deployment, construction management, and operation control. Issues such as conflicting project layouts and redundant pipeline construction among various entities are particularly prominent, primarily due to unclear interfaces of responsibility. Therefore, studying effective classification methods for pipeline types and establishing classification principles for pipeline networks is essential for advancing the layered, orderly and high-quality construction of “one natural gas pipeline network”.
Methods To establish a clear and reasonable pipeline network classification method, the “comparative research method” was employed, benchmarking against industries including electric power, highways and communications. The formation path of the principles of “layering and zoning” and “classified layering” in the linear engineering sector was analyzed through the lenses of industry development history, core network characteristics, and planning management policies. In combination with the evolution process and construction status of natural gas pipeline network, a layered and classified construction method for its physical architecture, based on “functional orientation ＋ technical classification”, was proposed, focusing on safety, reliability, flexibility, efficiency, fairness, and openness.
Results The function orientation of pipelines in the network was established based on their primary roles, while the technical classification was defined through the gas transportation capacity index calculated from design pressure and pipeline diameter. By integrating functional orientation and technical classification, the pipeline network was classified into backbone, trunk and branch layers, with the focus of layered construction proposed. Additionally, in alignment with the principle of layered and classified pipeline network construction, recommendations were made for planning scope division, the establishment of a planning integration mechanism, and the optimization of construction and operational modes.
Conclusion A clear classification of pipeline types and network layers, along with well-established interfaces for planning, construction and operation, will enhance the overall efficiency of building “one natural gas pipeline network” and support orderly scale growth, thereby ensuring national energy supply security.
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