Real-Time Active Pipeline Integrity Detection System for Gas Pipeline Safety Monitoring

Under Development

Acellent Technologies, Inc. More »

California Energy Commission

Threats and Integrity Management -- Anomaly Detection and Characterization

The Real-Time Active Pipeline Integrity Detection (RAPID) was funded by the California Energy Commission and consists of a network of sensors placed on new and existing pipelines at regular intervals. The sensors are small piezoelectric sensors/actuators embedded in a thin dielectric film that is applied on the pipelines. The sensors monitor and evaluate the vibrations caused by the flow and the hardware wirelessly transmits the data to computers for monitoring and analysis.

Structural health monitoring (SHM) is increasingly being evaluated by the pipeline industry as an alternative method to improve the safety, reliability, and reduce operational costs of pipeline systems. The RAPID system provides an early indication of physical damage of the line and Acellent is already manufacturing the units and demonstrated a prototype at PG&E facilities. A new project will implement the installation of the sensors in the field.

Increased Safety - The monitoring technology can potentially provide early identification of defects and allow for remedial strategies to be defined before damage leads to failure; thus increasing the safety and reliability of the pipeline system.

Greater Reliability -

Reduced Operations Cost - The sensor network will also eliminate costs associated with expensive inspections or shutting down the pipeline for service.

Real-Time Active Pipeline Integrity Detection System for Gas Pipeline Safety Monitoring, California Energy Commission, Report CEC-500-2015-095, September 2015.