Transporting Ethanol by Pipeline

[RJ Emery]

Main Question or Discussion Point

Is there any reason why ethanol in bulk cannot be transported by a mixed commodity pipeline (i.e., one that also ships gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, etc.)?

 

[siddharth]

I'd think that the main problem would be ethanol mixing with the other products and subsequent separation which would be required.

You might want to take a look at this resource.
http://www.api.org/aboutoilgas/sectors/pipeline/upload/pipelineethanolshipment-2.doc - Word file

 

[chemisttree]

The seals in the control valves and packing in the stem risers might not be compatible with ethanol. A similar problem was seen with MTBE when it was first used in pipelines.