CATERPILLAR 3306 TAA NO1540 - Gas Pipeline Facility in Portable Source, New Mexico

CATERPILLAR 3306 TAA NO1540 is a gas pipeline facility located in Portable Source, New Mexico, United States. The facility is operational and classified under NAICS code 486210, which covers pipeline transportation of natural gas. The facility is part of the extensive natural gas pipeline network in the Permian Basin region, a major area for oil and gas production. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. Typical gas pipeline facilities in this region include compressor stations, metering stations, and pipeline segments that transport natural gas from production fields to processing plants and distribution networks. The facility's portable source designation suggests it may be a temporary or mobile installation used for testing or emergency supply. This pipeline infrastructure plays a key role in the natural gas supply chain, supporting energy delivery to residential, commercial, and industrial users. The Permian Basin is one of the most productive oil and gas regions in the United States, and facilities like this contribute to the efficient transport of natural gas, reducing flaring and enabling economic use of associated gas. The facility's location in a remote area minimizes proximity to densely populated zones, but pipeline integrity management remains critical to prevent leaks and ensure safety.

The facility is located in the arid landscape of southeastern New Mexico, near the Permian Basin. The region's dry climate and sparse vegetation reduce the risk of pipeline corrosion from moisture, but the area is prone to wind erosion and dust. The pipeline transports natural gas, which, if leaked, can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and pose explosion risks. Proximity to sensitive ecosystems like the Carlsbad Caverns region requires careful monitoring to prevent environmental damage. Cathodic protection systems are typically employed to mitigate corrosion, and regular inspections ensure pipeline integrity.