Pipeline integrity management allows you to assess pig run results, execute a Fitness-For-Service (FFS) assessment, find out possible reasons for pipeline defects, and to document needed repairs.
To handle all collected data from these surveys and to support pipeline integrity management, using a GIS-based PIMS software tool can definitely add value.
In this blog post, we share 3 user cases how a PIMS such as PRIMS® supports you by performing Fitness-For-Service (FFS) assessments. In each user case, we will analyze the reason behind existing anomalies.
User case 1: internal corrosion in sinks
In this FFS assessment, internal anomalies are reported most often. They are mostly being classified as small corrosion anomalies (pitting, axial slotting, and grooving) or are clustered as general corrosion.
When we align internal corrosion anomalies (red features) in the Clock Position View and the pipe profile (red line) in PIMS tool PRIMS®, we see that most corrosion anomalies can be found in sinks. It also tends to occur at the bottom of the pipe where water with dissolved oxygen, debris or microbes can collect. Especially the first 800 meters of the pipe seem to be affected.
In this case, we recommend the pipeline operator perform a study to check whether there are conditions in these sections of the pipeline that would make active corrosion growth likely, such as water or microbiological activity.
User case 2: corrosion and dent anomalies
In this example, the POF 2009 / 2016 *2 specification was not followed correctly for the pig run. Corrosion and Dent anomalies are indeed being reported, but all dents are being classified as plain dents and there is no other data available.
When we align Corrosion anomalies (blue features) and dents (red features) in the Clock Position View, we conclude that some of these dents are actually complex dents (with corrosion) and need repair after further investigation.
User case 3: external corrosion and CP
In the last user case, external corrosion occurs over the complete inspected section, but the number of anomalies is significantly higher in the first part between KM 5 and KM 24.
The external anomalies were compared with the CP measurements. The values show that the CP System on the pipeline is working. The thresholds for potential and AC interference were not exceeded except for 3 measurement poles marked in Figure 3 (CP off potential; top chart).
Between KM 10 and 24, we see higher values of AC interference, as marked in Figure 3 (AC interference; middle chart). The AC values peak where the pipeline and the high voltage powerline are closer together. We, therefore, recommend the pipeline operator investigate whether AC mitigation should be optimized.
Learning points
These 3 user cases show the benefits of performing FFS assessments with a PIMS such as PRIMS® by combining different data sets to assess your pipeline’s integrity. Pig run results, CP surveys, and other data can be aligned together and allows you to assess the current situation of your pipeline.
Other data that can be easily imported include:
- Your pipeline route with all necessary pipe data incl. profile, depth of cover, pipe book, technical installations
- Risk Assessment data (the segmentation and the assessment results)
- Right of Way data
- Third party activities (observations: imported from many sources such as one call systems, KLIP/KLIM, KLIC/WION, flight observations and ground patrol observations, permits and requests)
- Environmental data
- Emergency response data
- Surveys like CP surveys (recurring measurements, CIPS, DCVG), Inline inspections (MFL, UT Pig run), Visual checks, wall thickness measurements
- FFP assessment data
- Feature / Repair data
- Linked documents
It is especially interesting to analyze the possible reasons behind reported anomalies such as corrosion, dents, or other anomalies. Once anomalies are detected, they are easy to locate on your pipeline since each feature (x, y, z) is visualized in a geographical context in the software application. PRIMS® really is the digital twin of your pipeline network in the field.
Questions about FFS assessments or PIMS tool PRIMS®?
Feel free to contact our team for any questions or to book your free online demo of PRIMS® to discover the software application yourself.
