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IndustryGlossary Term

Sewer Separation

The process of splitting combined sewer systems into separate lines for sanitary waste and stormwater runoff. Subcontractors are commonly hired for excavation, pipe installation, and tie-in work on municipal or industrial separation projects. Scopes can include bypass pumping, trenchless methods, and service reconnections.

Related Terms

IIJA (Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act)

Industry

A major U.S. federal law passed in 2021 that funds roads, bridges, pipelines, and energy infrastructure projects. It drives significant contract opportunities for subcontractors in civil, pipeline, and utility work. Prevailing wage and Buy America requirements often apply, affecting labour costs and material sourcing.

Modular Water Storage

Industry

Portable, stackable tank systems used on remote job sites to store potable, process, or wastewater. Subcontractors deploy them quickly without permanent infrastructure. Common on pipeline, camp, and frac support contracts.

AFE (Authorization for Expenditure)

Industry

A budgeting document used in oil and gas projects that outlines expected costs and seeks approval before work begins. Subcontractors often work under AFEs issued by operators.

Instrument Air Systems

Industry

Compressed air networks that power pneumatic valves, controls, and instrumentation on oil and gas and industrial sites. Subcontractors must ensure supplied air meets strict dryness and purity standards before connecting equipment. Contaminated or wet instrument air can damage sensitive controls and trigger costly shutdowns.

Refinery Throughput

Industry

The volume of crude oil a refinery processes over a set period, typically measured in barrels per day. Higher throughput means more maintenance, turnaround, and inspection work for subcontractors. Expect busier scopes and tighter schedules when a client ramps up processing capacity.

Cavern Storage

Industry

Underground storage facilities carved out of salt formations or rock, used to hold large volumes of natural gas, crude oil, or other hydrocarbons. Subcontractors handle construction, maintenance, inspection, and integrity testing at these sites, often needing confined-space and geotechnical certifications. Injection and withdrawal seasons create predictable maintenance windows, helping field service companies plan mobilisation.

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