The largest pipeline diameter, 36-48 inches, had the lowest of the total approval ratings with only 23.25% of respondents expressing that it is safe, while 56.85% strongly disagreed that a pipeline of that size is safe. This overall trend shows that small to moderate sized pipelines (1-12 inches in diameter) are considered reasonably safe, but that the perceived relative risks increase as the volume of the natural gas transported increases as a function of the size of the pipeline.

 

From a technical standpoint, larger diameter pipes afford far greater energy efficiency due to the reduced drag (or resistance) of fluids flowing through them. This compels companies to increase the size and reduce the number of compression stations along pipeline routes. An existing Columbia Gas pipeline that runs through Augusta County and is 20-inch in diameter has failed once in the past, which may influence the risk perceptions in the community.