Re: CAN STATIC ELECTRICITY FROM HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION LINES

Hello, Richard.

Power lines are definitely a concern in the placement of pipelines, particularly natural 
gas pipelines. In fact, Pipeline Research Council International has issued several reports 
on the subject. One of them is titled, “POWER LINE-INDUCED AC POTENTIAL ON 
NATURAL GAS PIPELINES.” Unfortunately, it costs $600 to buy, so I could only read the 
abstract. Natural gas pipelines and power line inevitably intersect. Power lines can pose 
a threat by producing sparks, inducing a current in the pipeline and coming into contact 
with a pipeline when a pole collapses. 

A power line produces a moving magnetic field, which can induce a current in a 
conductor. Most pipelines are made out of steel, so they are conductors. The risk for 
causing fires is reduced by maintaining a certain distance from the power lines and by 
grounding the pipeline. 

Also, a downed power line may produce a current in the pipeline, if they come into 
contact. I’m not sure if this could cause a fire directly. The natural gas needs a certain 
ratio with oxygen to be able to burn. If there is a leak, it could cause a spark to ignite 
the gas. 

Power lines can arc when they come in contact with a conductor, such as another 
power line or a tree. The sparks may ignite gas if there is a leak or they may start a fire, 
which can damage the pipeline and release gas. 

There was an accident in South Riding, Virginia that was caused by inadequate 
separation between a gas line and a power line, but it was in a residence, which has 
110-120 volts, not 118,000. A failure in the power line generated sufficient heat to 
damage the polyethylene gas line. Sadly, a woman died and a man was severely 
burned. I’ve been unable to find any other incidences of natural gas fires started by 
electricity, but it probably happens occasionally.

The main hazards are leaks and accidentally hitting them while digging. High-pressure 
gas lines often have signs asking people to call before digging. Underground Service 
Alert will mark the location of underground utilities for free. Sometimes you will see 
“USA” on a street, sidewalk or even dirt. This designates the area to be dug. Also, gas 
companies add a distinctive odor to natural gas, which is normally odorless, so that 
leaks can be more easily detected. 

Similarly, most power line fires don’t involve natural gas. They can also start fires by 
arcing, short-circuiting or overheating. Outside, the greatest problem is trees coming 
into contact with the power lines. Don’t plant trees too close to them. If there are 
preexisting trees that are coming close, inform the power company. Don’t try to trim 
them yourself. Inside, power lines are often overloaded. Make sure that fuses are the 
right amperage and don’t put to many appliances on one extension cord or circuit. Also, 
never allow cords to be covered with carpet or fabric. They will allow heat to build up 
until it starts a fire. Damaged cords are also dangerous. Inspect them and then make 
sure they aren’t trampled over. 

I hope that I’ve helped your study of fire prevention. Thanks for your question,

Kevin