PIPELINE MOVEMENT ASSESSMENT

DETERMINE SMALLEST PIPELINE MOVEMENT WITH MM ACCURACY

CHALLENGE

Even when buried, pipelines geolocation is not fixed and continues to change as a result of various naturally occurring and human caused events. This unwanted movement results in additional stress leading to integrity threats such as bending, buckling, wrinkles and even cracking.

This is especially prominent after geotechnical hazards such as floods, landslides and earthquakes have occurred. Immediate action needs to be taken due to the unknown threats that might have appeared. Remotely operated air based CMI can be used to receive information about line movement right after the events without any threat to the line inspector. It is even possible to inspect the most remote locations where human access is prohibited. No terrain is left uninspected.

SOLUTION

EMPIT is known for their strong track record in assessing pipeline movement caused through human activity such as mining, farming, and construction works. This is because EMPIT’s pipeline mapping services determine the absolute pipeline position with a maximum specified uncertainty of only 40 mm. Therewith, CMI is specified as the most accurate and precise mapping method on the market.

Any changes in line positioning are revealed through subsequent inspection runs, pointing to immediate areas of concern through tracking line movement on the millimeter scale. When combined with data from other assessments, CMI provides the operator with a complete integrity overview on the basis of which an asset management plan can be devised.