Pipeline Deformation
Long-term performance and safety of pipelines are vulnerable to compromise by geometrical damage, such as buckles, dents, ovalities, ripples and roof topping. Geometrical damage is most frequently attributable to manufacturing, construction or accidental damage. It may also arise from natural phenomena, like landslides.
Our holistic pipeline mapping, movement and inspection strategy focuses on the requirements of your specific assets. Mapping, movement and internal geometry inspections form a core element of an integrated pipeline management framework. Our objective is to help you achieve safe, compliant and efficient pipeline operations.
A holistic approach to understanding deformation
One of the main causes of pipeline failure globally is the combination of pipeline deformation when it is compounded by the presence of other anomalies like corrosion, gouges and weld flaws. Deformation features, such as wrinkles or buckles, are often associated with regions of high bending strain and pipeline movement. In severe cases, this may lead to restricted flows and hamper any cleaning and inspection processes.
We serve pipeline operators across the globe, providing asset integrity solutions that utilize proven effective technologies that we have developed over many decades. Each pipeline in your portfolio benefits from a tailored strategy and geometrical deformation risk management framework. A strategy that ensures your pipeline operations comply with codes and regulations. Delivered using our mapping and geometry inspection systems, the largest global fleet in the energy industry. Enabled through our dedicated software and data platforms, all managed by our multidisciplinary and expert engineering teams.
In-line inspection technologies for deformation
We combine the most advanced internal dimension (ID) inspection tools, with a wide array of service options to meet your needs. You will also benefit from the experience and knowledge of our experts and best-in-class practices, alongside actionable insights from data and reporting. We equip pipeline operators with the information required to make the most informed integrity management decisions, optimizing pipeline performance.
Integrity services for deformations
Deformations change the shape of a pipeline, causing performance impairment, loss and even failure. Dents, ripples, buckles, wrinkles, roof topping, ovality, and scale and wax deposits can be identified through geometry assessments. Advanced measurement systems equipped with multiple calipers and sensors provide full circumferential and axial coverage and mapping, confirming the location and size of deformations.
Geohazard management and consultancy
Minor geometric damage can arise, and this can lead to reduced performance and failure. Major events, such as seismic or mass sediment movements, can cause catastrophic damage and failure. We can support operators with geohazard identification, evaluation and control. We identify the threats faced along your pipeline routes, enabling you to create and implement a risk management strategy.
GIS and data management
Our expert teams can support you to design and implement your GIS strategy and architecture, integrating multiple data sources with a geospatial component. As well as understanding your assets, we can model your infrastructure to identify threats, such as high consequence areas and gas dispersion hazard zones.