Leher258:
I don’t know of any industry stds., as such, although pipeline work isn’t my specialty. And, I don’t think what you are referring to is called a skid, it is more likely just cribbing or temporary support system for the pipe. This kind of stuff is pretty site and project specific and a matter of some engineering judgement and experience. Various pipe line companies probably have their own stds. and rules of thumb from their own experience. They will most likely reuse materials and equipment if they have another project in the same area, so this could come into play. Obviously, these cribbings have to be stable for the work involved, so they will likely be wider (pieces longer) than the o.d. of the pipe being worked on, maybe a foot or so on each side for larger pipes. Then, at the ground level, 2 pcs. (or more) of the 6" or 8" wide by x length timbers must provide enough soil bearing area for the loads being supported. Then the next timber layer is set perpendicular to the first at about the same width spacing, and the bearing area btwn. the timbers [4(6x6) or 4(8x8)] shouldn’t overstress the timbers in compression perpendicular to the grain. Someone within the company has done these types of calcs. enough times so he probably has a tabulation of various arrangements based on pipe size, pipe piece length, thickness, weight, and they know something about the soil conditions along the pipeline. And, this sets the cribbing arrangement and spacing. I suggested who you should talk with, they can probably give you better local answers than I can. Then, also, apply some of your own engineering knowledge or find someone local who can help you on this. That will be a good relationship to foster and develop.