Non-metallic pipe systems are the perfect option for transporting highly corrosive fluids from oil and gas production which are potentially environmentally hazardous, since they contain volatile organic hydrocarbons. The operation of oil and gas production in agricultural lands is common and requires permeation tight solutions in order to prevent any kind of environmental contamination.

In the past, leakages caused by corrosion damages on carbon steel pipes or by permeation of hydrocarbons through pipes made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) have resulted in environmental damages. But pipes with an integrated aluminum barrier layer were shown to be resistant to permeation. In addition, the electrical properties of a metal layer embedded in the plastic pipe also make it possible to localize the course of the composite pipes in the ground and to install a permanent leakage monitoring system for operation.

The subject of the presentation is the description of the special requirements for the pipeline for hydrocarbon containing production water built in the area of the Rühler Moor Oilfield in Germany. The background for the planning of the pipeline by Exxon mobile and the arguments for the selected solution, the implementation in practice and the installed monitoring of the pipeline during operation will be presented. The pipelines in 500 m endless coils are drilled using the HDD method, which significantly minimizes the impact on the natural environment compared to conventional pipeline construction.

Thus, plastic pipes equipped with a metallic barrier layer can be recommended for loss-free transport of aqueous liquids containing hydrocarbons. Combined with permanent monitoring for the purpose of damage detection, this non-metallic pipe solution complies with even the strictest environmental requirements, thus enabling oil production in environmental sensitive areas and guarantees reliable protection of the environment.