Where's My Data? Integrity Data Management for Upstream Oil and Gas Pipeline Systems

摘要

Pipeline Integrity Management Programs (IMP) are a requirement under CSA Z662.11 Clause 3 for pipeline systems transporting oil and gas. Annex N of CSA Z662.11 provides guidelines for pipeline system integrity management programs. These programs are mandatory for pipeline system operators in Canada. Most pipeline system operators in Canada have static integrity management programs contained in binders that are difficult to update and expensive to maintain in the spirit of CSA Z662. For dynamic operating companies with constantly changing assets, their IMPs become out of date almost as soon as. they are put on the shelf. Their IMPs are not as effective as they should be as static systems require a huge manual effort to maintain validity. For example, adding a critical piece of new data on a pipeline system would not necessarily trigger an analysis of the effects on downstream assets. Being compliant with Clause 3 and Annex N requires that pipeline system data from many sources and details be collected, integrated, and analyzed on a continuous basis. To do that effectively, an integrated and dynamic pipeline integrity management system is required. The goal is to provide guidance for developing, documenting, and implementing effective pipeline integrity management programs which provide safe, environmentally responsible and reliable service . Most upstream operating companies currently collect huge amounts of data regarding design, construction and operation of their pipeline systems and the facilities connected to them. A common problem for most of these companies is that although they collect pertinent data, their static IMP cannot easily provide meaningful results. With a static IMP system there is a lack of analysis due to a lack of data integration. The data is there, it just takes too much effort to provide updates to the pipeline system and provide continuous analysis. Creating an effective system incorporating data collection, data integration and analysis are the most daunting tasks of an Annex N compliant integrity management program. We will review some of the data challenges of Clause 3 and Annex N of CSA Z662.11 and identify required features and components of an effective integrity management program and what an integrity management system should do. We will also look at ways to collect and present the data to provide more meaningful results such as ongoing changes to risk analysis and assessment. Finally, we will provide a summary of features and attributes of a functional integrity management program/system as outlined in Clause 3 and Annex N of CSA Z662.11. Required is an integrity management program that provides meaningful results and accepts data from the myriad of activities involved in the lifecycle of a pipeline system. With meaningful results, an IMP can provide a proactive approach to maintaining safe pipeline systems. Application of effective integrity management programs as per Clause 3 and Annex N of CSA Z 662.11 will result in improved integrity management and greater confidence in our pipeline infrastructure.