Company tests Audrain County pipeline that ruptured last month

The parent company of Panhandle Eastern Pipeline Company, which is responsible for the pipeline in Audrain County that ruptured last month, is currently testing the pipeline with water.

The process is called hydrotesting and is used to test the strength of the pipe to identify any areas that may need repairs, officials with Energy Transfer said.

During the testing, crews identified three sections of the pipe that need to be removed and replaced, officials said.

After the pipe is replaced, the line will be rested and once testing is finished, the line will be returned to service, according to the company.

Officials said that it is possible that nearby landowners may hear a noise if the line does not hold the water during hydrotesting, but that there is no cause for alarm, officials said.

The pipeline ruptured March 3, damaging Highway 15. No one was injured in the incident, but a home under construction was incinerated.

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