DTRS56-02-D-70036-16 Mechanical Damage

Abstract

This report reviews and summarizes the current state of knowledge and practice related to mechanical damage in natural gas and hazardous liquid steel pipelines, with a particular focus on transmission pipelines. Comprehensive voluntary interviews were conducted with 10 pipeline operators who represent a diverse cross-section of industry professionals in the United States, Canada, and Europe. The interviews, which focused on operator practices for detection, characterization, and mitigation of mechanical damage on both gas and liquid transmission and gas distribution pipelines (the latter examined for comparison purposes), provided an invaluable source of data for the development of this report. Operator practices associated with the prevention of mechanical damage primarily resulting from excavation damage were also extensively covered in the interviews. The inquiry primarily included pipelines that comprise transmission systems, but gas distribution companies also reported on their experience with distribution systems consisting of both steel and plastic pipe, the latter reviewed for a comprehensive discussion of the operator's damage prevention programs and issues. Pipeline geographic locations included remote and rugged terrain, rural areas, and constrained urban environments.