Pipeline Mapping and Movement
Geometrical deformation and movement of pipelines impacts negatively on their safe and efficient operation. Bending, movement, dents, ripples, wrinkles and buckles in your pipelines are caused by factors such as geohazards and heave as well as compromised manufacturing and construction quality. Geometrical deformation can lead to reduced performance and ultimately pipeline failure if not identified, located and addressed.
We adopt a holistic pipeline mapping, movement and inspection strategy focused on the operator’s specific upstream, transmission and distribution asset needs. Our integrated pipeline management framework includes mapping and geometry inspections. When combined with our prevention, management and rehabilitation solutions, our framework enables safe, compliant and efficient pipeline operations.
Geometrical deformation risk: your pipeline integrity partner
The terrestrial and subsea environments create many unique challenges. Landslides, sediment falls, erosion and ground movements caused by seismic events, currents, climate extremes and localized heave or subsidence place unplanned deformation stresses on pipelines. Pipelines can be poorly constructed with substandard materials or welding procedures. This situation is made worse by inaccurate surveying and mapping, making exact positioning difficult. Post-construction repairs, upgrades and other human activities, such as nearby third-party construction, also move and damage pipelines.
Geometric deformation threat analysis
Our asset integrity solution draws on proven effective technologies that we have developed over many decades, serving pipeline operators across the globe. We offer a geometrical deformation risk management framework for each individual pipeline in your portfolio. 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.
A threat assessment underpins your integrated geometric deformation risk management strategy. Our experts integrate with your teams, completing pipeline design and operational conditions reviews, deformation threat assessment from geohazard, design, materials and construction faults, third-party damage types and any potential inspection limitations. We then recommend and deploy the required advanced inspection solutions.
Geometry inspections for pipeline deformation detection
The first step of your deformation risk strategy is a geometry inspection of the as-built quality of your pipeline. Our advanced measurement systems are equipped with multiple calipers and sensors. This provides full circumferential and axial coverage, enabling comprehensive detection of external mechanical forces, dents, wrinkles, buckles, third-party damage and its location. It also confirms the location of valves, tees, flanges and welds, and free passage for subsequent in-line inspection surveys and cleaning.
Pipeline geometry technologies
As part of our holistic pipeline management framework, we operate the largest global fleet of pipeline geometry tools. Our tools are equipped with a unique partnership of contour following mechanical caliper measurements with eddy current (EC) proximity sensors. The precise mapping and sizing of geometric anomalies provides the data required to manage and improve pipeline performance. The sensors provide detailed data to differentiate between geometric deformation and debris, and even combined threats such as corrosion in dents and buckles.
Service solutions that meet your challenges and improve performance
Pipeline challenges are complex and require holistic asset management strategies. Following a geometric deformation risk threat assessment, our teams will recommend additional service options. Basic operational and pre-inspection cleaning, inspection at high flow rates, and XYZ route mapping and strain analysis are delivered using multi-diameter inspection tools.
To detect combined threats, we use multiple inspection technologies in a single run and operate offshore in long-distance, high-pressure pipelines. You receive all the data via our reporting and data management software. This ensures easy data visualization and facilitates the broad use of inspection results.