Session: 06-01-01 Geohazard Program

Paper Number: 134064

134064 - Essential Elements of a Holistic Framework for the Management of Geohazards 

Abstract: 

Abstract

Geohazards are a major contributor to pipeline incidents. Numerous incidents attributable to geotechnical hazards are listed in advisory bulletins from US DOT PHMSA. In addition to geohazards, hydrotechnical and seismic hazards can cause damage or loss of containment in pipelines.

A pipeline incident occurs when the demand on a pipeline segment exceeds its capacity. The demand is the loading imposed on the pipeline segment, while the capacity is the ability of the pipeline segment to resist the demand before an undesirable event, such as a leak or rupture, occurs.

Traditional geohazards management programs typically focus on the detection, characterization, mitigation, and monitoring of geotechnical hazards, i.e., demand, with limited consideration for the capacity of the affected pipeline segments. In some cases, mitigation decisions are made largely based on the characteristics of the hazards and whether the hazards are interacting with the pipeline. This approach can lead to over- or under-reaction as the hazards alone do not fully represent the level of integrity risk due to the lack of accounting for the capacity.

Geohazards could be managed more economically with a more holistic approach covering the characteristics of hazards and the pipeline’s capacity. Mitigation decisions based on quantifiable safety margins, stability of the site, risk tolerance, and operational considerations can provide the most flexibility in the timing, scope, and methods of mitigation while ensuring the safety of the pipeline. A proactive integrity-focused approach can also aid pipeline operators’ decision making and response to emergency situations. 

This paper presents a holistic approach to geohazards management with an ultimate goal of maintaining pipeline integrity. Lessons are drawn from incidents and successes. A contrast is made between the industry’s approach to managing common threats, such as corrosion, mechanical damage, and cracking, and its approach to managing geohazards. Different approaches to geohazards management as implemented by pipeline operators are described. Key elements of a holistic approach to geohazard management are explained and recommendations for practical actions are provided.

Presenting Author: Yong-Yi Wang Center for Reliable Energy Systems (Track Chair)

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Yong-Yi Wang is the founder and president of CRES. He is widely recognized as a lead developer and practitioner of strain-based design and assessment technology with primary applications in geohazards management. Dr. Wang holds an S.M. and a Ph.D. from MIT in Mechanics and Materials.

Dr. Wang was the honoree of the Distinguished Lecture Series at the 2018 International Pipeline Conference, Calgary, Canada. He has authored over 180 technical papers on pipeline integrity assessment, management of geohazards, fitness-for-service (FFS) assessment of anomalies, materials, welding, and fracture mechanics.

Dr. Wang has held leadership positions in a number of standard and RP development activities, including API Standard1104, API RP 1176, and API RP 1187. He was a member of ASME B31.8 and B31.12 and active in CSA Z662.

Authors:

Yong-Yi Wang Center for Reliable Energy Systems (Track Chair)
Banglin Liu Center for Reliable Energy Systems
David Warman Center for Reliable Energy Systems
Dan Jia CRES