SoCalGas to use recycled water for pipeline safety testing in Atascadero
Initial program will save about 245,000 gallons of potable water
—Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) plans to use recycled water for hydrostatic pressure testing of two sections of the natural gas transmission line in Pismo Beach and Atascadero later this month. The program, done in partnership with the City of San Luis Obispo’s Water Resource Recovery Facility, will be the first time recycled water has been used in gas pipeline pressure testing in San Luis Obispo County.
A hydrostatic pressure test assesses a pipeline’s strength and integrity by identifying any weaknesses. It involves filling a pipeline with water and increasing the pressure to a point higher than that at which it will operate to see if it has or causes any leaks. The higher pressure level is maintained over several hours. If the pipeline holds the pressure without any leaks, it is put back in service.
Two gas pipeline segments will be tested, one in Pismo Beach and the other in Atascadero. Together, the tests will use about 245,000 gallons of recycled water, saving the same amount in potable water.
“In this period of extreme drought, it’s more important than ever to conserve water,” said Timothy Mahoney, public affairs manager for SoCalGas. “We take pride in using sustainable practices in our operations and are sensitive to the importance of our natural resources.”
“As one of the only local providers of recycled water, the City of San Luis Obispo is excited to be able to satisfy the needs of the community with a non-potable water source, further reducing the demand on local potable water supplies,” said Carrie Mattingly, utilities director for the City of San Luis Obispo.
The pipeline section being tested in Pismo Beach is along Price Street from Mattie Road south to Cabrillo Highway, under Interstate 101, and along Bello Street to the St. Anthony’s Church parking lot located at 390 Bello Street. The Pismo Beach test section is shown here. SoCalGas will announce the precise start date immediately prior to beginning work.
The pipeline section being tested in the City of Atascadero is along El Camino Real from approximately 7320 El Camino Real to Santa Margarita Road, along Santa Margarita Road, Norte Road, and to approximately 9250 North Forty Road in unincorporated San Luis Obispo County. SoCalGas will announce the precise start date immediately prior to beginning work.
Traffic along these routes may be slower than usual. Digital message boards, safety cones and flaggers will be on-site directing traffic. SoCalGas advises motorists to drive carefully past the work sites and observe all traffic control signs.
SoCalGas says it hopes to continue using recycled water as it conducts pipeline testing throughout Southern California.
