Monitor and Report Encroachments on the Pipeline Right-of-Way

Under Development

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California Energy Commission

The system is co-funded by the California Energy Commission and OTD and it includes stationary vibrating sensors (see picture) installed near the ground surface at the pipeline right-of-way (ROW). The sensors make use of advanced wireless technology that enables monitoring miles of range with very low power. The technology enables the system to “learn” noise characteristics and alerts the appropriate personnel of the construction activities.

The technology deploys and demonstrates a pipeline monitoring system that can detect encroachments and alert operators of activity in the ROW in real time. This project applies stationary sensors to provide continuous monitoring of the pipelines. The system would not cover the entire ROW area but risk reduction is achieved by targeting the most active excavation equipment areas and the highest consequence lines.

Increased Safety - The system reduces the risk of excavation damage to buried gas facilities. It characterizes the excavation behavior and transfers the data to a notification station.

Technologies to Monitor and Report Encroachments on the Pipeline Right of Way, California Energy Commission, Project PIR-14-014.