Assessment of In-Line Inspection Performance and Interpretation of Field Measurements for Characterization of Complex Dents

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Luis A. Torres ◽  
Matthew J. Fowler ◽  
Jordan G. Stenerson
Keyword(s):  
Management Strategies ◽  
Mechanical Damage ◽  
Field Measurements ◽  
Management Program ◽  
Metal Loss ◽  
Tool Performance ◽  
Integrity Management ◽  
Technical Specifications ◽  
Shape Complexity

Integrity management of dents on pipelines is currently performed through the interpretation of In-Line Inspection (ILI) data; this includes Caliper, Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL), and Ultrasonic Testing (UT) tools. Based on the available ILI data, dent features that are recognized as threats from a mechanical damage perspective are excavated and remediated. Federal codes and regulations provide rules and allow inference on what types of dent features may be a result of mechanical damage; nonetheless, there are challenges associated with identifying dents resulting from mechanical damage. One of the difficulties when managing the mechanical damage threat is the lack of information on how MFL and UT ILI tool performance is affected by dented areas in the pipe. ILI vendors do not offer any technical specifications for characterizing and sizing metal loss features in dents. It is generally expected that metal loss tool performance will be affected in dented areas of the pipe, but it is not known to what degree. It is likely that degradation will vary based on feature shape, sensor design, and sensor placement. Because metal loss tool performance is unknown within the limits of the dented pipe, other methods for recognizing mechanical damage have been incorporated into the management strategies of mechanical damage. Some of these methods include strain based assessments and characterization of shape complexity. In order to build a more effective integrity management program for mechanical damage, it is of critical importance to understand how tool technology performance is affected by dented areas in the pipe and what steps can be taken to use ILI information more effectively. In this paper, the effectiveness of MFL and UT wall measurement tools in characterizing and sizing metal loss features within dents is studied by evaluating against field results from non-destructive examinations of mechanical damage indications. In addition, the effectiveness of using shape complexity indicators to identify mechanical damage is evaluated, introducing concepts such as dents in close proximity and multi-apex dents. Finally, the effectiveness of ILI tools in predicting dent association with girth welds is also explored by comparing ILI and field results.

Integration of Data From Multiple In-Line Inspection Systems to Improve Crack Detection and Characterization

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mark Piazza ◽  
Justin Harkrader ◽  
Rogelio Guajardo ◽  
Thomas Henning ◽  
Miguel Urrea ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Data Integration ◽  
Crack Detection ◽  
Detailed Examination ◽  
Metal Loss ◽  
Recent Experience ◽  
Destructive Testing ◽  
Tool Performance ◽  
Inspection Systems ◽  
Integrity Management

In-line inspection (ILI) systems continue to improve in the detection and characterization of cracks in pipelines, and are relied on substantially by pipeline operators to support Integrity Management Programs for continual assessment of conditions on operating pipelines that are susceptible to cracking as an integrity threat. Recent experience for some forms of cracking have shown that integration of data from multiple ILI systems can improve detection and characterization (depth sizing, crack orientation, and crack feature profile) performance. This paper will describe the approach taken by a liquids pipeline operator to integrate data from multiple ILI systems, namely Ultrasonic axial (UC) and circumferential (UCc) crack detection and Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) technologies, to improve detection and characterization of cracks and crack fields on a 42 miles long, 12-inch OD liquid pipeline with a 38-year operating history. ILI data has indicated a large number of crack features, including 4000+ crack features reported by UC, 1000+ crack features by UCc, and 2500+ metal loss features reported by MFL. Initial excavations demonstrated a unique pattern of blended circumferential-, oblique- and axial-orientated cracks along the entire extent of the 42-mile pipeline, requiring advanced methods of data integration and analysis. Applying individual technologies and their analysis approaches showed limitations in performance for identification and characterization of these blended features. The outcome of the study was the development of a feature classification approach to classify the cracks with respect to their orientation, and rank them based on the depth sizing by using multiple datasets. Several sections of the 42-mile pipeline were cut-out and subjected to detailed examination using multiple non-destructive examination (NDE) methods and destructive testing to confirm the crack depths and profiles. These data were used as the basis for confirming the ILI tool performance and providing confirmation on the improvements made to crack detection and sizing through the data integration process.

SCC Management and Integrity Planning in a Gas Pipeline

2006 ◽  
Author(s):  
David Katz ◽  
Sergio Limon ◽  
Ming Gao ◽  
Rick McNealy ◽  
Ravi Krishnamurthy ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Stress Corrosion ◽  
Crack Growth ◽  
Growth Rates ◽  
Crack Detection ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Field Measurements ◽  
Gas Pipeline ◽  
Oil Pipeline ◽  
Integrity Management ◽  
Crack Growth Rates

Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) is a major integrity management concern for many gas and oil pipeline operators. Predictive models for Stress Corrosion Crack growth were developed using laboratory test data from the mid 1970’s, and limited inspection data and excavation measurements from the early 1990’s. Extensive efforts continue to be made to develop strategies for a better management of the SCC problem. In this paper, a study of crack growth rates was conducted on the Williams 16-inch gas pipeline using data from two consecutive in-line crack detection tool runs and direct field measurements. Findings from this study provide a direct measurement of crack growth rates for ILI crack features with depths ranging from 12.5%wt to 40%wt. Future integrity of the pipeline was assessed. The integrity management strategies could be further refined using the calculated crack growth rate, field excavation data and fracture mechanics based API 579 FAD approach.

Characterization of Mechanical Damage Through Use of the Tri-Axial Magnetic Flux Leakage Technology

2006 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vanessa Co ◽  
Scott Ironside ◽  
Chuck Ellis ◽  
Garrett Wilkie
Keyword(s):  
Magnetic Flux ◽  
Mechanical Damage ◽  
Magnetic Flux Leakage ◽  
Metal Loss ◽  
Field Investigations ◽  
Non Destructive ◽  
Flux Leakage

Management of mechanical damage is an issue that many pipeline operators are facing. This paper presents a method to characterize dents based on the analysis of the BJ Vectra Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) tool signals. This is an approach that predicts the severity of mechanical damage by identifying the presence of some key elements such as gouging, cracking, and metal loss within dents as well as multiple dents and wrinkles. Enbridge Pipelines Inc. worked with BJ Services to enhance the knowledge that can be gained from MFL tool signals by defining tool signal subtleties in dents. This additional characterization provides information about the existence of gouging, metal loss, and cracking. This has been accomplished through detailed studies of the ILI data and follow-up field investigations, which validate the predictions. One of the key learnings has been that the radial and circumferential components of the MFL Vectra tool are highly important in the characterization and classification of mechanical damage. Non-destructive examination has verified that predictions in detecting the presence of gouging and cracking (and other defects within dents based on tool signals) have been accurate.

Enhanced Use of ILI Data to Improve Integrity Decisions

2012 ◽  
Author(s):  
Collin Taylor ◽  
Renkang Rain Zhu
Keyword(s):  
Metal Loss ◽  
Pipeline System ◽  
Precision Data ◽  
Data Alignment ◽  
Joint Characteristics ◽  
Tool Performance ◽  
Integrity Management ◽  
Data Improvement ◽  
Longitudinal Seam ◽  
Flux Leakage

With the current generation of in-line inspection (ILI) tools capable of recording terabytes of data per inspection and obtaining millimeter resolution on features, integrity sciences are becoming awash in a sea of data. However, without proper alignment and relationships, all this data can be at best noise and at worst lead to erroneous assumptions regarding the integrity of a pipeline system. This paper will explore the benefits of a statistical alignment method utilizing joint characteristics, such as length, long seam orientation (LSO), wall thickness (WT) and girth weld (GW) counts to ensure precision data alignment between ILI inspections. By leveraging the “fingerprint” like morphology of a pipeline system many improvements to data and records systems become possible including but not limited to: • Random ILI Tool performance errors can be detected and compensated for. • Repair history and other records become rapidly searchable. • New statistically accurate descriptions are created by leveraging the sensitivities of various ILI technologies. One area of material data improvement focused on within this paper relates to long seam type detection through ILI tools. Due to the differing threat susceptibility of various weld types, it is accordingly important to identify the long seam weld types for integrity management purposes. Construction records of older vintage lines do not always contain information down to the joint level; therefore, ILI tools may be leveraged to increase the accuracy of construction records down to this level. In this paper, the possibility of ILI tools, such as magnet flux leakage tools, ultrasonic crack tools, and ultrasonic metal loss tools, to distinguish different types of longitudinal seam welds is also discussed.

A Midstream Pipeline Operator’s Perspective on the Implementation of API 1183

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeremiah Konell ◽  
Brian Dedeke ◽  
Chris Hurst ◽  
Shanshan Wu ◽  
Joseph Bratton
Keyword(s):  
Selection Process ◽  
Management Program ◽  
Operating Conditions ◽  
Metal Loss ◽  
Pipeline System ◽  
Stress Risers ◽  
Integrity Management ◽  
Primary Focus ◽  
Condition Assessments ◽  
The Impact

Abstract In preparation for the upcoming (currently in draft form) Recommended Practice (RP) on Dent Assessment and Management (API 1183) [1], Explorer Pipeline Company, Inc. (Explorer) has performed an internal procedural review to determine how to effectively implement the methodologies into their Integrity Management Program (IMP). Explorer’s pipeline system transports hazardous liquids and is comprised of over 1,800 miles of pipeline ranging in diameter from 3 to 28 inches. The majority of the system was installed in the 1970s, but parts of the system were also installed as early as the 1940s. The primary focus of this review and implementation into the IMP is in regard to performing and responding to in-line inspection (ILI) based integrity assessments. Prior to the development of API 1183, dent assessment and management consisted of following a set of prescriptive condition assessments outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 49, Part 195.452. In order to do this, pipeline operators required basic information, such as dent depth, orientation, and interaction with potential stress risers such as metal loss, cracks, gouges, welds, etc. However, in order to fully implement API 1183, additional parameters are needed to define the dent shape, restraint condition, defect interaction, and pipeline operating conditions. Many new and necessary parameters were identified throughout the IMP, from the very initial pre-assessment stage (new ILI vendor requirements as part of the tool/vendor selection process) all the way to defining an appropriate reassessment interval (new process of analyzing dent fatigue life). This paper summarizes the parameters of API 1183 that were not part of Explorer’s current IMP. The parameters are identified, and comments are provided to rank the level of necessity from “must have” to “beneficial” (e.g. can sound and conservative assumptions be made when a parameter is not available). Comments are also provided to explain the impact of applying assumptions in place of parameters. The table of identified parameters should provide a useful tool for other pipeline operators who are considering implementing API 1183 as part of their overall IMP.

Integrity Planning and SCC Management in a Liquid Pipeline

2004 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bill Gu ◽  
Wayne Feil ◽  
Richard Kania ◽  
Ming Gao ◽  
Ravi Krishnamurthy
Keyword(s):  
Stress Corrosion ◽  
Crack Growth ◽  
Growth Rates ◽  
Crack Detection ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Field Measurements ◽  
Oil Pipeline ◽  
Integrity Management ◽  
First Time ◽  
Crack Growth Rates

Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) is a major concern for many gas and oil pipeline operators. Extensive efforts continue to be made to develop strategies for a better management of the problem. Predictive models for stress corrosion crack growth were developed using lab testing data, limited inspection and excavation measurements since mid 70s and early 90s, respectively. In this paper, a systematic study of crack growth rates was conducted on the Imperial Oil Rainbow 24 NPS pipeline based on the two consecutive UltraScan Crack Detection (USCD) tool runs and field measurements. Findings of this study provide, perhaps, for the first time since the phenomenon was discovered, a direct measurement of crack growth rates for shallow cracks (in the category of <12.5%wt). Future integrity of the pipeline was assessed and the integrity management strategies were refined using the determined crack growth rate and fracture mechanics based approach. In addition, the susceptibility of SCC was studied in detail using a decision tree approach for data mining. Some important correlations between SCC susceptibility and environmental and mechanical variables were identified and presented. Findings on SCC susceptibility are discussed in terms of environmental and loading parameters such as soil, drainage, topography, pressure, and CP along the pipeline.

A Prudent Approach to Evaluate Dig Effectiveness

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aaron Schartner ◽  
Aaron Woo ◽  
Dushyant Puri ◽  
Shahani Kariyawasam
Keyword(s):  
Performance Indicators ◽  
Program Effectiveness ◽  
Field Measurements ◽  
Management Program ◽  
Direct Examination ◽  
Probabilistic Evaluation ◽  
Safety And Reliability ◽  
Integrity Management ◽  
External Corrosion ◽  
Definition Of

Abstract Pipeline operators analyze in-line inspection (ILI) reported features to determine if excavation is required to investigate a feature through direct examination in the ditch. Pipeline excavations require considerable resources and planning. In addition, excavations may cause disturbance to the land owner or cause varying impacts to the operation of the pipeline. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the excavation decisions are made effectively. While operators do review the key performance indicators on how the integrity programs are performing, currently there is no established definition or measure in the pipeline industry to evaluate the effectiveness of a dig program. Defining and measuring dig effectiveness would allow pipeline operators to identify areas to focus on, such as further research and development, opportunities for improvement, and potential optimization of the ILI-based corrosion management program, while maintaining safety and reliability. This paper presents a method developed by TC Energy to measure dig effectiveness to evaluate the ILI-based corrosion management program. Effectiveness of digs depends on many aspects of the corrosion management program. First, a definition of dig effectiveness that reflects the objectives of the ILI program needs to be established. The method was developed using inhouse historical dig data for external corrosion features that required mitigation based on analysis of ILI data. The focus of the study included the probabilistic evaluation of excavations to baseline what can be expected in a dig program and have a process to evaluate factors that may affect dig effectiveness. The field measurements of digs completed for corrosion driven leak and rupture threats were gathered and analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of different dig populations and to determine what bounds should be placed to monitor dig effectiveness. The advantages of measuring dig effectiveness using field results as opposed to other metrics such as repair ratio was also demonstrated in this paper. Examples of understanding areas of improvement by using the dig effectiveness are discussed. Pipeline operators have the potential to incorporate the methodology presented in this paper in the integrity management program to enhance safety and identify areas of focus with the goal of increasing the effectiveness of the corrosion management program.

Making Integrity Decisions Using Metal Loss ILI Validation Process

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yanping Li ◽  
Gordon Fredine ◽  
Yvan Hubert ◽  
Sherif Hassanien
Keyword(s):  
Field Measurements ◽  
Management Decision ◽  
Metal Loss ◽  
Data Sets ◽  
Guidance Document ◽  
Tool Selection ◽  
Validation Process ◽  
Data Set ◽  
Tool Performance ◽  
Inspection Data

With the increased number of In-Line Inspections (ILI) on pipelines, it is important to evaluate ILI tool performance to support making rational integrity decisions. API 1163 “In-Line inspection systems qualification” outlines an ILI data set validation process which is mainly based on comparing ILI data with field measurements. The concept of comparing ILI results with previous ILI data is briefly mentioned in API 1163 Level 1 validation and discussed in detail in CEPA metal Loss ILI tool validation guidance document. However, a different approach from API 1163 is recommended in the CEPA document. Although the methodologies of validating an ILI performance are available, other than determining whether an inspection data set is acceptable, the role of ILI validation in integrity management decision making is not well defined in these documents. Enbridge has reviewed API 1163 and CEPA methodologies and developed a process to validate metal loss ILI results. This process uses API 1163 as tool performance acceptance criteria while CEPA method is used to provide additional information such as depth over-call or under-call. The process captures the main concepts of both API 1163 and CEPA methodologies. It adds a new dimension to the validation procedure by evaluating different corrosion morphologies, depth ranges, and proximity to long seam and girth weld. The process also checks ILI results against previous ILI data sets and combines the results of several inspections. The validation results of one inspection provide information on whether the inspection data set is acceptable based on the ILI specification. This information is useful for excavation selection. Tool performance review based on several inspection data sets identifies the strength and weakness of an inspection tool; this information will be used to ensure the tool selection is appropriate for the expected feature types on the pipeline. Applications of the validation process are provided to demonstrate how the process can aid in making integrity decisions and managing metal loss threats.

Investigate Performance of Current In-Line Inspection Technologies for Dents and Dent Associated With Metal Loss Damage Detection

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ming Gao ◽  
Ravi Krishnamurthy
Keyword(s):  
Measurement Errors ◽  
Linear Regression Analysis ◽  
Mechanical Damage ◽  
Probability Of Detection ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Interval Methods ◽  
Metal Loss ◽  
Validation Data ◽  
Mapping Technology ◽  
Integrity Management

Integrity management of dent and dent associated with metal loss requires knowledge of in-line inspection (ILI) technologies, government regulations and industry codes, prescriptive requirements, and most importantly assessment models to estimate severity of the mechanical damage. The assessment models have greatly relied on the assumed capabilities of current ILI technologies to detect, discriminate and size the mechanical damage. Therefore, an investigation of the current ILI technologies and validation of their capabilities are practically important. In this paper, the current status of ILI technologies for dent and dent with metal loss is reviewed. Validation data provided by ILI inspection vendors and pipeline operators are analyzed in terms of probability of detection (POD), probability of identification (POI), probability of false call (POFC), and sizing accuracy using binomial probability distribution and confidence interval methods. Linear regression analysis is also performed to determine sizing error bands. High resolution pull test data validated with LaserScan 3-D mapping technology is used to demonstrate a better evaluation of ILI performance with minimized in-ditch measurement errors and the effect of change in dent geometry and dimension due to re-bounding and re-rounding. Issues associated with field measurement and improvement are discussed.

A Combined Approach to Characterization of Dent With Metal Loss

2012 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rick Yahua Wang ◽  
Richard Kania ◽  
Udayasankar Arumugam ◽  
Ming Gao
Keyword(s):  
Mechanical Damage ◽  
Practical Experience ◽  
Metal Loss ◽  
Combined Approach ◽  
Detailed Characterization ◽  
Strain Limit ◽  
Study Results ◽  
Damage Criteria

Current in-line inspection technologies (e.g., Caliper/MFL or Combo) for mechanical damage characterization can detect dent with metal loss but with limited ability to discriminate metal loss between corrosion, gouge and crack with certainty. There are also some cases that metal loss signals were detected but not reported by ILI vendors because of either signals below threshold for reporting or other reasons. Practical experience showed that, with assistance of strain based dent analysis and strain limit damage criteria; detailed characterization of MFL tri-axial signals could effectively facilitate to discriminate metal loss features and identify potential risk of cracks or gouges in the dent. In this paper, the newly developed approach is utilized to identify the critical dents in the pipelines and discriminate those dents associated with metal loss reported by combined ILI technologies. A case study was performed with four real dent features, as an example to demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach. The details of the case study, results and findings are summarized in this paper.

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