Overview
Southern Star Central - Lyons Station is an operational gas pipeline facility in Lyons, Kansas, United States. It plays a key role in natural gas transmission under PHMSA and DOT 49 CFR Part 192 regulations.
Southern Star Central - Lyons Station is a gas pipeline facility located at 1490 West Highway 56 in Lyons, Kansas, within Rice County. As part of the Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline system, it serves as a critical node in the natural gas transmission network serving the central United States. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with DOT 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. The facility's technical specifications include a NAICS code of 486210, indicating it is classified as a natural gas pipeline transportation operation. The facility is part of a larger regional pipeline system that typically spans hundreds of miles, connecting gas production areas in the Midcontinent region to downstream markets. The station likely includes compression, metering, and valve infrastructure to manage gas flow and pressure. Environmental and operational significance of the Lyons Station lies in its role in maintaining reliable natural gas supply to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Kansas and neighboring states. The facility contributes to energy security and grid stability, particularly during peak demand periods. Its location in a rural area reduces population density risks, but proximity to waterways and agricultural land necessitates robust leak detection and cathodic protection systems to prevent environmental incidents.
Environmental context
The facility is situated in a rural agricultural area of central Kansas, with the nearest populated area being Lyons approximately 2 miles away. The region is characterized by flat terrain and numerous waterways, including the Arkansas River basin, which may be sensitive to potential pipeline leaks. Typical gas pipeline infrastructure in this region requires regular integrity management to prevent corrosion and leaks. The commodity transported (natural gas) poses fire and explosion risks, though modern safety systems mitigate these.
Frequently asked questions
Southern Star Central - Lyons Station is located at 1490 West Highway 56 in Lyons, Kansas, United States, within Rice County.
It is a natural gas pipeline facility that operates as part of the Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline system, transporting natural gas across the central United States.
Gas pipeline facilities in the United States are regulated by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) under DOT 49 CFR Part 192, which covers design, construction, operation, and maintenance safety standards.
Pipeline safety is ensured through compliance with PHMSA regulations, including regular inspections, cathodic protection to prevent corrosion, leak detection systems, and emergency response plans.
Gas pipeline facilities can impact the environment through land disturbance during construction, potential methane leaks, and risks to waterways. Operators implement mitigation measures such as trenchless crossings and leak monitoring to minimize impacts.
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