UFC 3-460-03
21 JANUARY 2003
Chapter 2
PIPELINE SYSTEMS
2.1. On-Base Pipelines. On-base pipelines are used to fill base fuel storage tanks, withdraw fuel from
base storage tanks, fill trucks, transfer fuel between base storage and operating storage tanks, and fill
aircraft from hydrant operating storage tanks and dispensing systems.
2.1.1. Commercial Pipelines. Commercial pipelines deliver fuel to the base fuel storage tanks.
These pipelines are usually underground except at tie-in connections to the base pipelines. These
pipelines are constructed on government property by issuing real estate easements. Typically, cross-
country pipelines are owned, operated, and maintained by civilian agencies. When a pipeline system
is under contract to a civilian agency, civilian responsibility for maintaining the pipeline usually
terminates at some point near where the pipeline enters the base. From this point to the bulk fuel
storage area, the responsibility for maintenance is assigned to the BCE. The BCE is authorized to
perform emergency maintenance on on-base commercial pipelines, if necessary, to protect against
environmental damage to public property or meet emergency wartime mission requirements. The real
estate easement agreement with the pipeline owner takes note of this and provides for suitable
contractor reimbursement to the government. Government-owned or -leased cross-country pipeline
systems and marine facilities are in common use in oversea areas. In some areas Air Force personnel
maintain these systems.
2.1.2. Bulk Fuel Storage Facility Pipelines. Petroleum fuels may be supplied to bulk fuel storage
tanks by inter-terminal pipelines that may be dedicated to serving the particular facility or may be
commercial pipelines handling several types or grades of fuel for more than one user. In some cases,
the pipeline will be an installation pipeline. Where more than one type of fuel is received or
unloaded, separate pipelines and unloading facilities are typically provided for each type of fuel.
2.1.3. Transfer Pipelines. These pipelines carry fuel between base storage, transfer pumphouses, and
truck fill stands or hydrant systems. Typically, these pipelines are underground except in the
immediate area of the facility involved. Most facilities have separate issue and receipt lines;
however, some facilities use a single line for both.
2.2. Operating On-Base Petroleum Systems. The FMF is responsible for operating on-base
petroleum systems, according to AFI 23-201, Fuels Management, and T.O. 37-1-1. The BCE provides
the FMF with a current on-base pipeline capacity (in U.S. gallons).
2.3. Maintenance of On-Base Pipelines.
2.3.1. Inspecting Aboveground Piping. Visually inspect for leaks or drips at the same time that other
maintenance tasks are performed in these areas. Leaks in an aboveground pipeline require welding
for permanent repair (see API Recommended Practice [RP] 1107, Pipeline Maintenance and Welding
Practices). Approvals from the MAJCOM fuels engineer, base safety, base environmental engineer,
and the base fire department are required before beginning welding or hot work in connection with
repairs.
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