An Introduction to Arctic and Subarctic Utilities for Professional Engineers

Engineering decisions for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure in Arctic and Subarctic regions are based not only on applicable federal, state, and local codes, but also the expertise of engineers or practitioners with experience in dealing with the unique conditions provided by the extreme environment these regions experience. It is the intent of this discussion and its associated series to provide requirements and guidance to prevent significant missteps in the planning, design, and construction of cold regions infrastructure. Consultation with experienced engineers at the design and Installation level is required to ensure technologies and practices that are unsuitable for this environment, or a specific location, are not proposed. This discussion provides indicators of potential problem areas that may require unique engineering solutions outside the realm of those seen in temperate region or standard construction practices. The planning, design, construction, and maintenance of utility systems are all affected by the special environmental conditions found in the Arctic and Subarctic. These conditions include adverse temperatures, extreme temperature variations, wind, humidity, and snow; high costs; remoteness of locations; limited availability of construction materials and labor; need for fuel additives, synthetic lubricants, oils, and greases for construction equipment; thermal stresses; and seasonal ground freezing, frost heaving, and permafrost.