Pipeline Visualization, Simulation and Monitoring in Unstable Areas Affected by Soil Movements at Serra do Mar – Brazil

In this work we discuss the importance of visualization, simulation and monitoring pipelines constructed in areas geologically unstable. In particular it is of great concern pipelines crossing Serra do Mar, in Brazil, where there are colluvium deposits subject to slow movements not traceable by a simple visual inspection most of the times. In order to guarantee the structural integrity of the pipeline it is necessary to measure the tensions transmitted by the ground to the pipeline. Knowing that the soil-pipeline interaction is extremely complex the implementation of an extensive program involving visualization, simulation and monitoring that includes not only the slope but also the pipeline becomes mandatory. This program seeks the collection of information that allows the establishment of a reliable interaction model. This model must be capable of providing operational control parameters and subsidize the decision of an intervention in the pipeline. Therefore the safety of pipeline operations can be maximized through instruction of operators and establishment of monitoring and inspection routines. Right now, in a joint effort of CENPES and TRANSPETRO, a complete set of visualization and numerical simulation software platform is available and it is being used to build a 3D model of all the geotechnical risky areas in Serra do Mar. Also the installation and operation of a pilot monitoring system, including piezometers and inclinometers on the slope and strain gauges on the pipeline, at three different pipelines crossing Serra do Mar, with data acquisition in real time is being undertaken.