Fiber Optic Sensors for Direct Pipeline Monitoring Under Geohazard Conditions

A state-of-the-art fiber-optic based multi-sensor monitoring system utilizing Distributed Strain Sensing (DSS), Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS), and Enhanced Distributed Acoustic Sensing (EDAS) will be investigated for improving the probabilistic ranking of risk models of geohazard prone sections of Natural Gas pipelines for shut down, maintenance or replacement. Both time dependent and independent threats can be monitored using such technologies, revealing issues with landslides, subsidence, corrosion, and third-party damage as well as defects in the pipeline and its constituent components. A laboratory experiment will be executed that allows quantitative analysis of detection ability of simulated geohazard events, and the results will be compared with current risk assessment methods found in the literature. Laboratory testing will consist of simulated geohazard events on an operator supplied section of a pipe that is representative for pipelines used in the industry. A key task is to develop and test robust techniques to securely and continuously, in space and time, attach the monitoring cable to the pipeline. A second key task is to work with manufacturers to develop a fiber optic cable with a predicted lifetime in excess of 30 years. Paulsson will coordinate the work with pipeline research efforts sponsored by PG&E and PRCI.