Modernization Process for Oil Pipelines

Many operating oil pipeline systems in North America, and throughout the world were designed to former pipeline codes, many over 30 years ago, which were less stringent than those in force today. Pipeline integrity management is an extremely important function for pipeline operators, and there are enormous advantages for pipeline owners to modify and improve the integrity of their existing pipeline systems and to meet the present-day requirements. A life-cycle analysis process has been developed, which can extend the life of the pipeline, while bringing it into regulatory compliance with present-day pipeline codes. This process avoids the necessity of (expensive) pipeline replacement programs. This process can also be applied to “non-loggable” (oil or gas) pipelines, to compliment external/internal direct assessment techniques.