Atmos Energy 2010 Annual Report Download - page 11

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ATMOS ENERGY 2010 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT 9
7Wooden pipes were state-of-the-art pipelines in the early 19th century.
Later, they were replaced with more reliable cast iron, steel and coated
steel pipes. Today’s polyethylene pipe will stand the test of time for many
decades to come.
8 To keep our pipelines in top condition, electronic and mechanical
“pigs” are sent through our pipelines to inspect for anomalies, cracks or
scratches and to keep the lines clean.
9 We conduct periodic pipeline-integrity
inspections, using a variety of structural,
metallurgical and process tests, to prevent
problems and safeguard the public.
8
9
2000
1950
1900
1850
1800
7
Since 2004,
Atmos Energy
has spent more
than $1 billion
to modernize
its system.
PROGRESS IN PIPELINES
Polyethylene – Late 1960s to present
Coated Steel – 1950s to present
Bare Steel – 1920s to early 1940s
Cast Iron – 1900s to 1920s
Wood – 1830s to 1910
Bamboo – First used by the Chinese
around 900 BC to transport natural gas