Session: 06-05-03 Strain Demand

Paper Number: 134051

134051 - An Automated Real-Time Data Analysis Tool for Interpreting Strain Gauge Data 

Abstract: 

Pipelines frequently traverse various terrains and geologies, making them susceptible to various geohazards, such as landslides, unstable ground, subsidence, sinkholes, flooding, earthquakes, etc. Geohazards have been observed many times to cause pipeline movement and displacement, inducing strains on the pipe. In the pipeline industry, strain on the pipe is predominantly assessed through in-line inspections (ILI) with tools such as the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and Axial Strain Inspection Tool (AXISS). While these tools provide valuable insights into strain changes along the pipe, their data collection is infrequent and requires significant time for data processing.

In recent years, several pipeline operators have opted to monitor pipelines affected by geohazards utilizing specialized instrumentation and monitoring systems. Strain gauges are among the common instruments to monitor pipelines threatened by geohazards. Strain gauges are installed at several locations on the circumference of the pipe to measure strain changes due to ground movement. Strain data from these gauges are typically collected in near real-time if a telemetry station is installed, offering continuous monitoring. However, in most cases, the geohazard-induced strain is not uniformly distributed around the pipe, and the points experiencing maximum tensile and compression strains (bending strains) may not align with the locations where strain gauges have been installed.

This paper introduces an innovative tool for pipeline strain monitoring, tailored for real-time processing and analysis of the raw strain gauge data. By processing these data, this tool produces crucial information, including changes in the maximum tensile and compression strains, the current and historical bending directions, accumulation of bending strain (or divergence) on the pipe, and the axial strains at strain gauge locations along the pipe.

The presentation will highlight the practical application of strain gauges for monitoring pipelines against geohazards as well as impact of the temperature or pressure changes along the pipeline. Through examples, it will explain how the data processing capabilities of strain gauges contribute to advancement in strain monitoring and enhancing our understanding of the impact of geohazards on pipelines.

Presenting Author: Arash Mosaiebian Enbridge

Presenting Author Biography: With over 15 years in Geotechnical Engineering, Arash Mosaiebian stands as a seasoned Senior Pipeline Geohazard Engineer. Possessing a Master's in Geotechnical-Rock Mechanics Engineering, Arash is recognized for his impactful contributions to geohazard management.
As a licensed Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) and Project Management Professional (PMP), Arash has successfully navigated projects, earning praise for his commitment to industry best practices. His expertise extends to the strategic handling of geohazard risks in pipelines and linear infrastructure.
Arash is set to share insights at IPC, focusing on Strain gauge data processing.

Authors:

Arash Mosaiebian Enbridge
Debora Martogi Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.
Ali Ebrahimi Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.
Amir Ahmadipur Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.