Overview
The Thomas Crude Oil Storage Facility in Loving, New Mexico, is an operational oil pipeline terminal. It serves as a key infrastructure node for crude oil transport in the Permian Basin region.
The Thomas Crude Oil Storage Facility is located approximately 23 miles east of Loving, in Eddy County, New Mexico, United States. This operational facility is part of the oil pipeline sector, handling crude oil storage and transfer. It supports the broader pipeline infrastructure network in the Permian Basin, one of the most productive oil regions in the country. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 195 for hazardous liquid pipelines. While specific technical specifications such as storage capacity or pipeline length are not detailed, the facility's NAICS codes (211111 for crude petroleum extraction and 486110 for crude oil pipeline transportation) indicate its role in both upstream and midstream operations. Typical facilities of this scale in the region include tank farms with cathodic protection and leak detection systems. Environmentally, the facility's location in a semi-arid region with low population density reduces certain risks, but proximity to groundwater resources and the potential for spills require robust containment measures. The facility plays a critical role in the regional energy supply chain, connecting production fields to refineries and export hubs, thereby supporting domestic energy security.
Environmental context
The facility is situated in a semi-arid environment in southeastern New Mexico, an area characterized by low annual rainfall and sparse vegetation. The local geology includes salt formations and aquifers, which necessitate careful groundwater monitoring. Pipeline infrastructure in this region must address risks from corrosion and seismic activity, though the area is generally low-risk. Spill containment and leak detection are critical due to the potential impact on soil and water resources.
Frequently asked questions
The Thomas Crude Oil Storage Facility is located approximately 23 miles east of Loving, in Eddy County, New Mexico, United States.
It is an operational oil pipeline terminal that stores and transfers crude oil, serving as part of the pipeline infrastructure in the Permian Basin.
The facility is regulated by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) under 49 CFR Part 195 for hazardous liquid pipelines.
Typical safety measures include cathodic protection to prevent corrosion, leak detection systems, spill containment dikes, and regular inspections in compliance with PHMSA regulations.
Oil pipeline facilities can impact local water resources and soil if spills occur. Operators implement containment and monitoring systems to mitigate risks, and the semi-arid climate reduces some environmental concerns.
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