The strengthening of the Austrian natural gas distribution network will be possible thanks to the Südschiene Abschnitt Semmering – Bruck an der Mur project. The Austrian Gas Grid Management has programmed the realization of the biggest Styrian pipeline project ever.

The construction activities started in June 2009 and the full operational service foreseen by the end of 2010. The construction will involve more than 350 qualified employees that will cover all technical, commercial and financial issues. Regarding the technical issues, engineering analysis will be performed to meet all environmental impact requirements.

Due to technical difficulties six telepherics will be installed in eight special points. The welding of more than 4000 joints requires experienced welding teams and welding engineers. The 32 inches line will be proofed with 120 bar gas pressure, all quality and safety requirements will be supervised by experienced personal.

Technical data:

• 32 inches nominal pipe diameter
• 3 mm EP/PE coating thickness
• Spiralled pipes
• L485 MB steel
• 17,5 m pipe mean length
• 65,130m length
• 6 telepherics
• 8 Special Points
• 11 horizontal drillings
• 24/19 ROW width
• 70 bar nominal pressure
• 32 Km first section, 33 Km second section
• Mountains area 70% of line