Fiberglass Shelters Protect Critical M&R Station Infrastructure
The Project
A natural gas supplier required two fiberglass shelters to protect suction spill regulators that connect a transmission pipeline to a compressor station at one of their metering and regulating (M&R) stations.
Above-ground natural gas piping, control valves, and regulators are often enclosed to improve reliability and operational performance. These systems carry high-pressure gas, experience thermal and mechanical stress, and are often located in high-consequence areas where preventing downtime is a top priority.
The Challenge
The energy supplier needed a manufacturer capable of delivering custom fiberglass buildings that could be installed over existing pipe with no to minimal service disruption. Key requirements included:
- Accommodating existing piping with no relocation
- Minimizing disruption to active gas operations
- Providing long-term protection from environmental exposure
- Providing easy access for inspection and maintenance
Traditional construction methods would require extensive fieldwork and potential for system shutdowns. The project demanded a solution that could be prefabricated, adaptable, and rapidly installed.
The SolutionLong-Term Protection with Minimized Short-Term Disruption
Shelter Works custom engineered two fiberglass (FRP) buildings designed specifically around the existing infrastructure.
Shelter 1
- Dimensions: 8’ x 20’ x 8’
- (1) 3’ x 4’ knockout panel
Shelter 2
- Dimensions: 8’ x 18’ x 8’
- (2) 3’-6” x 4’-4” knockout panels positioned parallel
Both shelters included:
- Double doors for equipment access
- 2’ x 4’ skylights for natural lighting in an enclosure with no electricity
- Turbine ventilators for passive airflow
- Aluminum wall vents for additional ventilation
Accommodating Existing Equipment with Knockout Panels
To eliminate the need for field modifications to structural walls, both shelters incorporated knockout panels—fiberglass-only sections designed for easy removal and modification.
- Panels can be removed for in-field cutting to match pipe penetrations.
- After modification, panels are reinstalled using an aluminum trim kit.
- Maintains a clean, sealed enclosure without exposing the wall’s core materials
For this project, the end user chose to remove the panels entirely and use the trim kit to finish the openings. This approach allowed the shelters to be installed directly over existing pipe without the labor required to cut the panels.
The Result
The natural gas supplier successfully installed both shelters with minimal disruption to daily field operations. The fiberglass buildings now provide long-term protection for critical M&R station infrastructure, increasing equipment longevity, reducing maintenance, and supporting reliable system performance.
By combining custom design, prefabrication, and corrosion-resistant materials, the project demonstrates how Shelter Works shelters delivers durable, efficient protection for high-value natural gas assets.
Performance Benefits in Natural Gas Applications
Environmental Protection
Fiberglass shelters protect critical piping and controls from freezing temperatures, rain, moisture, wind, and UV exposure.
- Extends the life of coatings and insulation
- Reduces corrosion at flanges, welds, and support
- Minimizes long-term maintenance requirements
- Provides a safe, dry environment for a technician to work during repairs and maintenance
Impact Protection
The shelters act as a physical barrier against accidental damage from vehicles, equipment, or field debris, an important consideration in active industrial sites.
Operational Reliability
By creating a controlled environment, the shelters help maintain consistent operating conditions for pressure regulation equipment and reduce exposure-related failures.
“Shelter Works provided a great product at a good price for our customer.”
Bruce Raine, PE at Powell Controls
Why ShelterworksCoordinated Infrastructure with Fiberglass Construction
Fiberglass buildings provide key advantages for natural gas infrastructure:
- Custom Engineering: Designed around existing piping and site constraints
- Off-Site Fabrication: Reduces field labor and accelerates installation
- Corrosion Resistance: Will not rust or degrade in harsh environments
- Lightweight Construction: Simplifies placement over existing systems
- Long Service Life: Minimal maintenance with no need for repainting