Implementation of Pipeline Integrity Management in a Large Pipelines Network in India

Abstract

Hydrocarbon pipelines are one of the key elements of the energy security system of a country, especially in a large country like India hydrocarbon pipelines are the backbone of the energy distribution system. While the operational reliability of such a system is important to ensure a sustained supply of hydrocarbon energy across the country, the continued structural integrity of the network is vital for public safety. Generally, pipelines are the safest mode of transportation of bulk hydrocarbon energy, but pipeline failure is not uncommon. Recent global databases on pipeline failure indicate that third party damage and corrosion are two major causes of pipeline failure though there are other reasons like poor construction quality; an incorrect operation etc., may also lead to pipeline failure. The extent of damage that a pipeline failure can cause depends on the extent of the release, for example, a small leak may not cause much damage if detected with a short period, while a rupture of the pipeline can release a significant amount of pipeline content and may cause significant damage to property and life. With a higher degree of public awareness and stricter regulatory regime, pipeline operators are having a relook into their integrity management system to prevent any untoward incident. Majority of the pipeline operator now realize that holistic approach taking together as much factor as possible could be a better approach to manage the integrity of the pipeline network especially a large network of pipeline spread across a vast country like India. This realization has led many pipeline operators to implement computer-based pipeline integrity management system. While this is a welcome change but implementation of PIMS across a vast network of pipeline built over a long period, with various technologies and having diverse engineering requirements have come of the challenges that the pipeline operator must overcome. This paper discusses one such case of implementation of the Pipeline Integrity Management System (PIMS) in a large and diverse network pipeline in India and the challenges faced in the course of implementation. Authors feel that the case could be a good learning ground for those operators who are contemplating implementation of PIMS in their respective pipeline network.