AK2006 -- Alyeska Pipeline

The 800mi long Alaska Pipeline (also aparently called the Alyeska Pipeline) was built in the 1970s to connect Prudoe Pay and Valdez. It's very difficult to travel this part of AK without coming across the pipeline. While I have other thoughts about the companies that use it, the pipeline itself seems to have been built with foresight and safety. Its not bolted down to the anchors, allowing for drift in the cold, heat or earthquake. The anchors have heat exchangers so the heat of the oil to escape before melting the permafrost. Certain places have been burried or raised to prevent impact by & to the local envionment. Its all kinda impressive. . .

The pipeline crossing the Tanana River via a suspension bridge, along the Richardson Highway. . .

. . . a closer look at the safety wires used to further strengthen the pipeline in the wind. . .

. . .certain parts are secured for reasons i did not inquire about. . .

. . .a pipeline history sign put in palce by the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company. these are found in various places along the pipeline route. . .

. . .along the Richardson Highway, the pipeline cross the road underground and reemerges on the other side. note the heat exchangers on the top of the anchors to protect the permafrost -- and the zig zag of the pipeline in the distance to protect against shifting metal and ground. . .

. . .another pipeline history sign put in place by Alyeska. . .