Buried Pipeline Coating Assessment Using Cathodic Protection Categories
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assessing the integrity of buried pipelines are inadequate in accurately determining the degradation of external coatings and prioritizing maintenance, particularly in the context of cathodic protection and environmental factors.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that categorizes buried pipelines based on compatibility with cathodic protection and setup status, using multiple inspection tools to analyze data on coating degradation, including soil resistivity, metal loss corrosion, and voltage gradients, to determine a prioritization schedule for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple inspection tools and comprehensive data analysis are used to accurately assess coating degradation, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The assessment system is segmented into distinct functional modules: multiple inspection tools (CIPS, DCVG, ACVG, close interval survey) each perform specific measurement functions, and a computer system integrates their data through category-specific analysis. This segmentation allows each tool to specialize in particular aspects of coating assessment while maintaining overall system accuracy without requiring one complex monolithic device.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer system serves multiple functions: it receives and processes data from various inspection tools, determines pipeline categories based on compatibility with cathodic protection and setup status, applies category-specific analysis methods, and generates prioritization schedules. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate specialized systems into a single universal assessment platform.
2Manufacturing precision
If category-specific analysis methods are used for different pipeline types, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by determining the pipeline's category (shielding/non-shielding coating compatibility and scrapable/un-scrapable setup status) and then applying category-specific analysis methods tailored to each type. Each pipeline category receives customized assessment parameters and interpretation criteria, ensuring high precision for that specific pipeline type without requiring a completely separate system for each category.
Solution Approach 2:
The analysis methodology is dynamic and adapts based on the determined pipeline category. The computer system automatically selects and applies different analysis methods, data interpretation criteria, and assessment parameters according to the pipeline's specific category, allowing the system to optimize its operation for each pipeline type while maintaining a unified platform structure.
3Reliability
If comprehensive inspection data is collected and analyzed, then reliability of integrity assessment is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by determining the pipeline's category (shielding/non-shielding compatibility and scrapable/un-scrapable status) before conducting the full data analysis. This preliminary classification enables the subsequent analysis to be focused and optimized, allowing comprehensive data collection to be processed more efficiently by pre-configuring the appropriate analysis methods and criteria for that specific pipeline type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by automatically selecting and applying category-specific analysis methods based on the determined pipeline category. The computer system receives comprehensive inspection data, determines the pipeline category, and then applies the appropriate analysis framework, creating a feedback loop that optimizes processing efficiency while maintaining comprehensive assessment reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate assessment and prioritization of coating degradation, allowing for targeted maintenance strategies that enhance the integrity and longevity of buried pipelines.
Implementation Method 1
a close interval survey tool, an ACCA (alternating current, current attenuation) tool, an ACVG (alternating current voltage gradient) tool, a DCVG (direct current voltage gradient) tool
Implementation Method 2
accessing input data encoding one or more inspection tool modifiers. The one or more inspection tool modifiers includes: a soil resistivity measure
Implementation Method 3
determining a category of a buried pipeline based on a compatibility with cathodic protection
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure describes a computer-implemented method that includes: determining a category of a buried pipeline based on a compatibility with cathodic protection and a setup status of the buried pipeline, wherein the buried pipeline includes an external coating on an exterior surface of the buried pipeline; accessing input data from one or more inspection tools, wherein the one or more inspection tools are configured to monitor respective operating conditions of the buried pipeline; analyzing the input data from the one or more inspection tools in a manner specific to the determined category of the buried pipeline; and determining a prioritization schedule to maintain the external coating on the exterior surface of the buried pipeline.