Strain measurement on pipelines for long-term monitoring of structural integrity

Abstract

Abstract This article deals with the methodology of strain measurement using strain sensors. It focuses more profoundly on the problem of identifying the critical points along the circular cross-section of a structure by appropriate positioning of the sensors along its circumference, as stated specifically in (Chmelko and Garan, 2016). Particular attention is paid to the problem of thermal compensation, which this article aspires to sort out by introducing an innovative method of measuring loading in critical points developed especially for long-term safety monitoring systems. Apart from the problem of thermal compensation, this paper also examines the possibilities of eliminating the fluctuating offset signal which arises during the long-term measurement of loadings. The method that helps acquire a stable signal of strain is described in further details below. All of the above presented methodologies have been applied to the monitoring systems to ensure the safe operation and structural integrity of the actual pipeline system employed in the gas industry.