The natural gas infrastructure primarily consists of three major types of pipeline systems: gathering systems, transmission systems, and distribution systems.
Here's a breakdown of each:
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Gathering Systems: These systems collect raw natural gas from various production wells. They are networks of smaller pipelines that transport the gas from wellheads to processing plants or larger transmission pipelines.
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Transmission Systems: These are high-pressure pipelines that transport large quantities of processed natural gas over long distances, often across state lines. They act as the "highways" of the natural gas network.
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Distribution Systems: These systems deliver natural gas to end-users, such as homes and businesses. They consist of smaller, lower-pressure pipelines that branch out from the transmission systems within cities and towns.
In summary, natural gas infrastructure facilitates the entire process from extraction to delivery, encompassing gathering, transmission, and distribution systems to ensure natural gas reaches its final consumers.
