Pipeline and Midstream Construction and Technical Maintenance: What You Need to Know

In the complex world of energy infrastructure, pipeline and midstream construction and technical maintenance are essential to keeping the nation’s energy systems safe, efficient, and operational. As demand for oil, gas, and industrial products continues to grow, major midstream companies rely on experienced contractors who can manage large‑scale projects and deliver reliable ongoing support. Hawkins is proud to be a trusted partner for many of the industry’s leaders, including Kinder Morgan, Enterprise, Targa, ONEOK, Energy Transfer, Air Products, Shell, BP, ExxonMobil, and Linde.

From new pipeline construction to comprehensive technical maintenance, Hawkins delivers the manpower, expertise, and safety commitment required for today’s midstream challenges.

What Is Midstream Construction and Why It Matters

Midstream construction refers to the planning, building, and installation of infrastructure that transports and stores energy products after extraction and before distribution. This includes pipelines, pump stations, meter sites, compressor facilities, and associated site work. The midstream sector acts as the vital link between upstream production and downstream delivery.

For energy companies, effective construction and maintenance mean:

  • Reliable transportation of oil and gas
  • Minimized downtime and operational risk
  • Compliance with environmental and safety regulations
  • Long‑term system integrity

Hawkins plays a significant role in this process by supporting the industry with skilled crews, equipment, and technical services that meet the unique demands of midstream projects.

Pipeline Construction: From Gathering Lines to Class Upgrades

A major component of midstream infrastructure is pipeline construction. Hawkins supports projects ranging from smaller gathering lines to large distribution mains — managing crews of 2 to 200 personnel depending on project scale.

Key midstream construction services include:

New Line Construction (Gathering Lines)

Gathering lines transport crude oil or natural gas from production sites to central processing facilities. These lines require highly coordinated construction teams that understand:

  • Trenching and right‑of‑way preparation
  • Pipe laying, welding, and coating
  • Soil stabilization and erosion control
  • Environmental protection measures

Hawkins crews have the experience and safety training needed to complete gathering projects on time and within budget.

Class Upgrades

Class upgrades involve modifying pipeline segments to meet new regulatory or operational standards. This could include changes to pipe specifications, wall thickness, or safety measures as mandated by regulatory bodies. Hawkins provides the manpower and technical guidance needed to execute class upgrades smoothly, often in live operational environments.

Encroachments

Construction near existing pipeline infrastructure or across public land requires careful planning and compliance. Hawkins works with midstream partners to safely manage encroachments, ensuring all regulatory and engineering standards are met.

Pump Stations and Meter Site Construction

Beyond pipelines, midstream infrastructure includes support facilities like pump stations and meter sites.

  • Pump Stations: These facilities are crucial for maintaining fluid pressure and flow across long pipeline distances. Hawkins crews handle site prep, structural work, equipment installation, and integration with existing systems.
  • Meter Sites: Accurate measurement of flow rates and product quantities is essential for commercial transactions and regulatory compliance. Hawkins supports meter site construction with precision installation and testing services.

Critical Technical Maintenance Services

Construction is only part of the story. Maintaining the integrity and performance of midstream systems is equally critical. Hawkins offers comprehensive technical maintenance services, including:

Anomaly Digs

Anomaly digs are excavation activities performed after in‑line inspections (ILI) identify irregularities in pipeline integrity. Hawkins crews respond quickly and effectively to:

  • Excavate and assess anomalies
  • Replace defective pipeline segments
  • Backfill and restore the site
  • Conduct documentation and reporting

This rapid, technically sound response helps minimize downtime and supports regulatory compliance.

Hydrotesting

Hydrotesting is a method of verifying pipeline strength and leak integrity by pressurizing a segment with water. Hawkins provides:

  • Site preparation and safety oversight
  • Pumping and test execution
  • Data recording and assessment
  • Demobilization and restoration

Hydrotesting is essential for newly installed pipelines as well as segments undergoing repair or upgrade.

Why Major Midstream Companies Trust Hawkins

Hawkins has built a reputation for delivering high‑quality pipeline and midstream construction services and technical maintenance services. That trust is evidenced by long‑standing relationships with industry leaders such as:

  • Kinder Morgan
  • Enterprise
  • Targa
  • ONEOK
  • Energy Transfer
  • Air Products
  • Shell
  • BP
  • ExxonMobil
  • Linde

These partnerships reflect Hawkins’ commitment to:

  • Safety first on every job
  • Technical accuracy and professionalism
  • Responsiveness and efficient mobilization
  • Consistent performance on large and complex projects

Whether field support is needed for a new build, site maintenance, or inspection response, Hawkins provides the skilled crews and technical expertise energy companies depend on.

Safety, Compliance, and Workforce Excellence

In the energy sector, safety isn’t optional—it’s a core requirement. Hawkins trains every crew member to meet or exceed industry safety standards, ensuring every project is executed with minimal risk to personnel, assets, and the environment.

Compliance with federal and state regulations, as well as client expectations, is a cornerstone of Hawkins’ operational approach. This includes:

  • Comprehensive safety planning
  • On‑site risk assessments
  • Documentation and audit readiness
  • Environmental protection measures

Hawkins personnel are equipped and trained to deliver performance that supports both operational goals and safety excellence.

Partner with Hawkins for Pipeline and Midstream Success

Whether your project involves new construction, anomaly response, hydrotesting, or long‑term maintenance, partnering with a trusted midstream services provider makes a measurable difference. Hawkins delivers the experienced crews, technical precision, and industry commitment that major midstream companies rely on daily.

To learn more about how Hawkins can support your next pipeline or midstream project, contact us today.