Incorporating Inline Inspection Internal Measurement Unit Data Analysis Into Integrity Management Programs

Abstract

Inline Inspection Internal Measurement Unit (ILI IMU) data analysis is a well understood but often under-utilized technology for detecting, defining, assessing and monitoring soil to pipeline interactions. The technology has been successfully used to detect landslide interactions since 1996 [1]. Operators can be provided with a vendor analysis (initial bending strain or run to run movements) and/or processed raw data for either internal or third-party raw data Analysis [2]. Vendor Analysis typically identifies major soil/pipeline interactions but primarily reports dig related settlements [3] and static construction related features. Raw data analysis is typically used to define interactions and provide detailed pipe shapes and deformations within targeted pipeline segments. An approach for determining ILI IMU analysis/data requirements for individual ILI run segments for any size of pipeline system is presented. Guidelines for analysis are provided for Operators to optimize efforts based on the hazards encountered in individual pipelines or pipeline systems. The process includes feature screening, integrity/geotechnical specialist review and risk control/mitigation measures, if required. To facilitate the feature screening process, a classification system for ILI IMU features is presented based on their type, activity and source modified from the system presented in [3].