Risk-based maintenance strategy for oil transfer pipelines using an intuitionistic fuzzy computational approach

Abstract

The safety and reliability of oil transfer pipelines are crucial, as pipeline failures can severely affect the environment. As pipeline risk management is dynamic and uncertain, traditional maintenance approaches often fall short. This research paper proposes an Intuitive Fuzzy Computational Approach (IFCA) for oil transfer pipeline maintenance (RBM). To develop a targeted and nuanced maintenance plan, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) is employed. Pipeline equipment is hierarchically organised according to their failure mode criticality, which guides maintenance design. This paper leverages the context of an Interval Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy (IVIF) environment to streamline the hierarchical classification of oil transmission pipeline instruments. The objectives are threefold: (1) to develop an intuitionistic fuzzy risk assessment model, (2) to design a modified algorithm for maintenance prioritisation, and (3) to develop a decision support system. Additionally, the research incorporates the IVIF-SWARA method to enable flexible adjustments in the alignment of the pipeline instruments. By addressing the specific challenges of oil transfer pipelines, this research aims to contribute to advancing the field of pipeline maintenance and risk management. The proposed RBM strategy, underpinned by the IFCA framework, is expected to enhance pipeline reliability and mitigate the risks associated with pipeline failures. Abbreviations: RBM: Risk-Based Maintenance; IFCA: Intuitionistic Fuzzy Computational Approach; FMEA: Failure Modes and Effects Analysis; IVIF: Interval Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy; SWARA: Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis; RCM: Reliability-Centered Maintenance; RBI: Risk-Based Inspection; CBM: Condition-Based Maintenance; IFS: Intuitionistic Fuzzy Set; HFPR: Hesitant Fuzzy Preference Relation; IVIFPHA: Interval-Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy Power Heronian Aggregation; MCDM: Multi-Criteria Decision-Making; S C O i : Accuracy Function of Occurrence; S C S i : Accuracy Function of Severity; K ( a ~ ) : Failure Probability Index; L W D : Minimum Allowable Weight of The Failure Detection Index; WS, WO, WD: Weight Assigned to The Failure Outcome; RP V j : Relative Priority Value; OREDA: The Offshore Reliable Data Handbook; IVIFPWHA: Interval-Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy Power Weight Heronian Aggregation