TransCanada PipeLines: An Expert Advisory System for Pipeline Operations

This paper describes a new approach to provide advanced advisory information intended to complement the systems used by Gas Controllers operating the TransCanada gas pipeline. The “Advisory System” is based upon Gas Controller knowledge and experience captured into an expert system and integrated with signal processing of SCADA in real-time. The Advisory System continuously applies its knowledge seeking and identifying deviations from normal and efficient operation, determining whether these deviations are significant, and presenting warnings and possible causes through a web-enabled user interface. The technology monitors both steady-state variations from normal operation and the transient effects of unintentional or abnormal conditions. Discussed are system requirements, and the unique approach taken to monitor, tune, evaluate and communicate conclusions. The results achieved, Gas Controller feedback, and future directions are presented, including the successful rapid detection of a linebreak incident.