Enhanced Locating Technologies for Underground Pipelines with Better Accuracy
This project will develop a locate technology that will increase the accuracy of pipeline detection.
Institute of Gas Technology dba GTI Energy
Recipient
Davis, CA
Recipient Location
37th
Senate District
68th
Assembly District
$1,768,806
Amount Spent
Completed
Project Status
Project Result
As of July 2024, all technical and project reporting tasks are complete, including pilot demonstrations for the above-ground large standoff three-dimensional electromagnetic detection technology and in-pipe gyroscopic mapping technology. Pilot demonstrations were conducted on transmission lines with White River Technologies APEX technology at Situation City in Pico Rivera and at SoCalGas's Wheeler Ridge Compressor Station. The Reduct In-pipe Mapping and Locating Technology was demonstrated on distribution line test sites in Winters and Elk Grove with PG&E and Charge EPC, respectively. The Final Project Meeting was held on May 14, 2024, and the revised Final Project Report was submitted to the CAM and in process for publication.
The Issue
One of the leading causes of damage to underground pipelines is directly related to locating issues. Due to many variables, including depth, type of ground cover, pipe material, pipe size, soil moisture, and proper operations of equipment, it is difficult to accurately locate underground gas infrastructure. With recent technological advancements and three dimensional data capabilities available, it is an ideal time to address these issues. Combining leading locating technologies whose outputs can be integrated to produce a more accurate subsurface mapping product can help address the complexities of locating underground pipelines.
Project Innovation
This project advanced and field demonstrated an above-ground large standoff three-dimensional electromagnetic detection technology and in-pipe gyroscopic mapping technology for improving the accuracy of locating pipes in both the horizontal and vertical dimensions over current practices.
Project Goals
Project Benefits
This project enhances 3D location data capabilities and make field-based data more accessible in real-time, reducing risk of gas pipeline damage. This project increased the range of pipeline detection capability and extended the conditions where the enhanced locating technology is applicable relative to soil conditions, soil moisture levels, and degree of subsurface congestion.
Environmental Sustainability
This project increases the accuracy of pipeline detection, which will reduce the potential of accidental encroachment to the pipeline and associated methane leaks.
Safety
This project not only optimizes capabilities of individual locating technologies but also improves 3D visualizations in near real-time. Additional analytics built into the platform, including the ability to synergize datasets, help provide insight into maintaining a safer gas system and increasing operational efficiency by having more detailed, accurate information on utility infrastructure locations.
Key Project Members
Kaushik Biswas
Joe Carlstrom
Subrecipients
Trident Environmental & Engineering, Inc.
White River Technologies, Inc.
Match Partners
Institute of Gas Technology dba GTI Energy
White River Technologies, Inc.
