Pipeline operators are today faced with an increasing number of challenges. In addition to implementing more rigorous pipeline integrity programs, integration of pipeline data has now become a major concern.
Through the use of a highly accurate inertial navigation system (INS) on board an In Line Inspection (ILI) smart pig, longitude, latitude and elevation coordinates can now be provided along the pipeline every tenth of an inch. This information provides the most accurate reference for integrating and relating pipeline data in a comprehensive manner. One of the most significant benefits to the operator is an absolute reference for integration of legacy and current pipeline data.
This paper describes the processes involved in providing a data integration service to a major pipeline operator in the continental United States. Additionally, this paper shall focus on the benefits of combining pipeline-mapping services with an ILI smart pig survey.
Today pipeline operators are facing an aging pipeline infrastructure, more stringent regulatory practices and, due to technological advancements, an ever-increasing amount of data that must be analyzed in a coherent manner. In order to meet these challenges, budget dollars must be spent in a way that addresses all pipeline integrity concerns. Additionally, budget spending must be cost-effective and must target products and services offering innovation and efficiency.
The purpose of this paper is to describe how an effective implementation of Geographical Information System (GIS) technology, TruView® GIS(1) tightly coupled with ILI analysis, can be used as a data integration platform for enhanced decision support for pipeline integrity management programs (IMP). Through comprehensive analytical and visual tools and accurate data integration, large diverse and complimentary data sets can be analyzed for making timely, informed, and economic decisions for risk assessment.
This paper describes the components and techniques used for this method of data retrieval and accurate integration. It also highlights new regulatory requirements for data integration and integrity management, and finally, describes two case studies involving In-Line Inspection and subsequent GIS implementation for pipelines located in the continental United States.
