Crude oil from the Bakken region poses no greater transportation risk than other crudes and transportation fuels, according to the final results of a recent study commissioned by the North Dakota Petroleum Council (NPDC). Preliminary results from the study were reported in May, and the final results are in line with data reported recently by the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.
The data run counter to speculation that Bakken oil is more flammable than other types of crude. Crude oil delivery by rail has received heightened scrutiny amid a rash of oil train incidents, some of which caused fatalities, injuries and property damage. Industry has begun working with regulators to update standards for trains carrying crude oil and other flammable liquids, and last month the Obama Administration proposed rules for phasing out older tank cars.
The NPDC study also outlined several best practices to ensure consistent Bakken crude oil quality, testing procedures and shipping classification. Recommendations include providing maximum tank settling time possible prior to shipment, reducing stock tank pressure to the lowest possible pressure to maintain vapor collection equipment integrity and classifying all Bakken crude as a Class III, Packing Group I hazardous material.
SEE ALSO: Whiting Petroleum to become top Bakken producer with Kodiak buy
Photo by Harvey Henkelmann
