Multiple Data Set ILI for Mechanical Damage Assessment

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present a non-traditional pipeline mechanical damage ranking system using multiple-data-set in-line inspection (ILI) tools. Mechanical damage continues to be a major factor in reportable incidents for hazardous liquid and gas pipelines. While several ongoing programs seek to limit damage incidents through public awareness, encroachment monitoring, and one-call systems, others have focused efforts on the quantification of mechanical damage severity through modeling, the use of ILI tools, and subsequent feature assessment at locations selected for excavation. Current generation ILI tools capable of acquiring multiple-data-sets in a single survey may provide an improved assessment of the severity of damaged zones using methods developed in earlier research programs as well as currently reported information. For magnetic flux leakage (MFL) type tools, using multiple field levels, varied field directions, and high accuracy deformation sensors enables detection and provides the data necessary for enhanced severity assessments. This paper will provide a review of multiple-data-set ILI results from several pipe joints with simulated mechanical damage locations created mimicing right-of-way encroachment events in addition to field results from ILI surveys using multiple-data-set tools.