Pre-Commissioning ILI in compressed air

Pipeline Description:

Several 36″ pipeline sections in the Canadian Rocky Mountains were in pre-commissioning phase. No permanent traps were built. The total lengths of the sections vary between less than 2km and 16km. The sections had a significant elevation profile.

Why is it challenging?

The planned products for this pipeline couldn’t be used due to pre-commissioning phase. Hence, an inspection in compressed air was planned. The available compressors were able to provide approximately 10bar (140 PSI) only. In addition, significant elevation profiles in the different sections occurred. Hence, speed excursions and heavy mechanical forces were expected and presented several challenges with regards to ILI tool damage and data quality.

Target of the inspection:

Perform a high-resolution geometry inspection to detect dents, ID changes and ovalities including a pipeline mapping as part of the acceptance process for the pipeline construction contractors. And to detect pinholes and internal corrosion that are to be expected in this pipeline due to the flood damage as a baseline check for future corrosion growth. assessments.