Shell Oil Kettleman Pump Station - Oil Pipeline Facility in Kettleman City, California

Shell Oil Kettleman Pump Station is an operational oil pipeline facility located in Kettleman City, Kings County, California. It serves as a pump station within the broader crude oil pipeline network, facilitating the transport of petroleum products across the region. The facility is part of Shell's midstream infrastructure in the San Joaquin Valley, a key area for oil production and refining. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and DOT 49 CFR Part 195, which governs hazardous liquid pipelines. As a pump station, it maintains pressure and flow within the pipeline system, ensuring efficient transport. The NAICS code 486110 indicates it is classified as crude petroleum pipeline transportation, a sector with established safety and integrity management standards. The Kettleman Pump Station plays a role in connecting oil fields in California to refineries and distribution terminals. Its location in a rural area near Interstate 5 provides strategic access for pipeline operations. The facility contributes to the regional energy supply chain, supporting both local and national fuel demands.

The facility is situated in the San Joaquin Valley, an area with significant agricultural activity and groundwater resources. Pipeline operations in this region require careful management to prevent leaks that could impact soil and water quality. The proximity to populated areas and waterways necessitates robust cathodic protection and leak detection systems. Regulatory oversight under PHMSA mandates regular inspections and spill response planning to mitigate environmental risks.