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I N N O V AT I O N S • V O L . V I I , N O. 2 • 2 0 1 5

26

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