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pipeline doesn’t fit on the defects, or the defects
don’t fit on the pipeline.”
There are, however, technologies like the
Multiple Dataset (MDS) inline inspection
platform that simultaneously collect multiple sets
of pipeline integrity data from a single source
– including critical information on corrosion,
dents, manufacturing defects, material
changes, and so on.
“With platforms like these, you get
absolute alignment because it all comes
from the same tool at the same time,”
says Kirkwood.
Recognizing Value
An exciting trend in PIMS is in the area of
regulation, particularly in Europe, where
governments are giving operators a
greater role in deciding
Populated areas include both
high population areas (called
“urbanized areas” by the U.S. Census
Bureau) and other populated areas – referred
to by the Census Bureau as a “designated place.”
Drinking water sources include those areas supplied
by surface water or wells, and where a secondary source of
water supply is not available. The land area in which spilled hazardous liquid
could affect the water supply is also treated as an HCA.
Unusually sensitive ecological areas include locations where critically
imperiled species can be found; areas where multiple examples of federally
listed, threatened and endangered species are found; and areas where
migratory water birds concentrate.
HCAs for Natural Gas
Transmission Pipelines
An equation has been developed based on research and experience that
estimates the distance from a potential explosion at which death, injury
or significant property damage could occur. This distance is known as the
“potential impact radius” (PIR), and is used to depict potential impact circles.
Operators must calculate the potential impact radius for all points along
their pipelines and evaluate corresponding impact circles to identify what
population is contained within each circle.
Potential impact circles that contain 20 or more structures intended for
human occupancy; buildings that house populations of limited mobility;
buildings that would be hard to evacuate (e.g., nursing homes, schools);
or buildings and outside areas occupied by more than 20 persons on a
specified minimum number of days each year, are all defined as HCAs.
HCA Definitions