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The integrity of pipeline infrastructure is a matter of serious concern for those within the oil and gas industry. Given the dynamic and complex regulatory environment, our clients seek to effectively address and manage their company’s integrity related challenges. With 35 years of specialized industry experience, we understand the pipeline industry and its complexity. We are committed to delivering high-quality and innovative solutions to help our clients maintain safe, reliable and efficient operations of their transmission, distribution and hazardous liquid pipelines.
Structural Integrity is a leader in providing high-quality, highly-effective integrity and risk management services to the oil and gas industry. Our team has a profound understanding of the integrity issues our clients face and can provide expert engineering and consulting services to help implement these programs. The comprehensive range of services we offer includes in-line inspection (ILI) consulting, fracture mechanics, advanced materials engineering, NACE-accredited corrosion analyses and mitigation program development as well as HCA and class location analyses. In addition, our auditing and compliance verification process as well as program implementation guidance can assist clients in preparation for state and federal inspections. Structural Integrity is committed to helping clients implement a robust and compliant program that ensures the safe and reliable operation of both Hazardous Liquid and Natural Gas pipeline systems.
With intimate knowledge of applicable regulations and engineering codes, our experts regularly assist clients in ensuring a best in class TIMP program is implemented, including development and review of the IMP Plan, threat assessments, risk evaluation processes and implementations, quality assurance, and more.
A Practical Perspective for Hydrotesting as an Integrity Management Tool
NPRM for Safety of Gas Transmission and Gathering Pipelines
Update on Proposed Safety of Gas Transmission and Gathering Pipeline Regulation
In-Line Inspection: An Improvement Over Pressure Testing for Pipeline Integrity Management
2018 AGA Operations Conference
ILI : An Improvement Over Pressure Testing for Pipeline Integrity Management
We provide consulting to gas distribution clients in support of the 2009 Gas Distribution Integrity Management Program (DIMP), requiring operators to conduct periodic evaluation and improvement of the program.
Pipeline regulation and integrity management principals require operators to identify and evaluate all applicable threats to covered pipeline segments. With over three decades of applicable experience conducting risk assessment evaluations and prioritizing findings for the implementation of Preventative and Mitigative (P&M) measures, Structural Integrity consultants are well-positioned to meet and exceed these objectives.
Our deep-rooted understanding of the industry gives us a unique and comprehensive portfolio of abilities to help clients address new regulations that require operators to verify the integrity of their pipelines and related facilities. We apply the latest tools and technologies to provide material verification, engineering critical assessments, and expanded assessments, ensuring the design parameters for safety margins and verifying remaining asset life for a given threat or combination of threats
A Practical Perspective for Hydrotesting as an Integrity Management Tool
NPRM for Safety of Gas Transmission and Gathering Pipelines
Update on Proposed Safety of Gas Transmission and Gathering Pipeline Regulation
In-Line Inspection: An Improvement Over Pressure Testing for Pipeline Integrity Management
As pipeline assets age, new regulations require layers of accurate data to be properly stored and maintained, making the integration and utilization of the data increasingly challenging. Structural Integrity has experienced personnel with expertise in data and GIS management and integration. In addition, we have developed support tools and programs to assist integrating and making use of this critical data to support pipeline integrity activities.
After a recent merger of two major gas pipeline operators, Structural Integrity was retained to help merge all Transmission Integrity Management Program (TIMP) Plan documents, recommending best practices, and implementing Management of Change processes to combine the TIMP Programs.
For a major southeast utility, Structural Integrity implemented a PODS-based comprehensive data integration and risk assessment. All data was migrated from the client's legacy spreadsheet-based model and the updated system enabled the use of more data sets, with greater reliability and quality control of the data. The client also realized synergies between various data management activities such as MAOP verification, risk assessment, and performance metrics.
For a northeast pipeline operator, Structural Integrity completed development of their Integrity Management Program plan and then subsequently assisted in developing In-Line Inspection (ILI), Direct Assessment, and Guided Wave Test plans. We were then responsible for implementing and overseeing all phases of these programs across their system.
For a major east coast pipeline operator, Structural Integrity developed protocol and supporting software tools to complete MAOP verification on over 2,700 miles of transmission pipelines. The project team sorted and reviewed tens of thousands of records identifying Traceable, Verifiable and Complete Records that would provide support in establishing the MAOP for each segment. Key metadata and record identifiers were stored in a database and program tools were used to calculate MAOP based on code requirements.
Due to the increasing complexity of regulations and the demand for operational transparency, pipeline operators aspire to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Working within the requirements of Federal, state and local agencies can be difficult for pipeline operators to accomplish without an independent third-party subject matter expert to evaluate their management and operational practices. Structural Integrity can help ensure compliance with current regulations, benchmark against industry best practices, and make recommendations for continuous improvement to your company's related programs and procedures.
In accordance with Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) regulation, FAQs and PHMSA Inspection Protocol, Structural Integrity’s experts can perform a comprehensive quality assurance review of an organization’s adherence to pipeline regulatory guidelines, as well as evaluate the strength and thoroughness of a company’s pipeline integrity management program, control room management program and other operational compliance-related company documents and records.
Structural Integrity offers a wide range of training courses to ensure operators have a comprehensive understanding of pipeline regulations and can tailor training to meet the specific needs of the client.
Structural Integrity has experience working with gas and liquid pipeline operators in the development and implementation of Control Room Management plans, providing consulting services and training to address all elements of CRM Regulation.
PHMSA recommends pipeline operators take appropriate actions to ensure its records for transmission pipeline MAOPs are “traceable, verifiable and complete”. For many operators, those requirements are a significant project that requires careful planning. Structural Integrity has extensive experience assisting operators in implementing MAOP and Maximum Operating Pressure (MOP) verification programs.
Engineering Critical Assessment (ECA) involves completing an analysis to determine the fitness for service and remaining life of an asset based on fracture mechanics principles, material properties, operating history, and operating and maintenance procedures. Although this analysis may seem daunting, Structural Integrity maintains analytical tools, systematic approaches, and industry experts that can greatly simplify and enable an efficient and robust analysis when completing an ECA.
A Strategic Approach for Complete Engineering Critical Assessments
Applying Fracture Mechanics to Address Emerging Issues in Oil and Gas
In-Line Inspection: An Improvement Over Pressure Testing for Pipeline Integrity Management
2018 AGA Operations Conference
ILI : An Improvement Over Pressure Testing for Pipeline Integrity Management
Pipeline operators may often have missing or incomplete records for select pipeline assets. Information that is vital to the safe operation of a pipeline, such as material grade, may be unknown and thus either requires a need to verify the material properties or replace them with known materials. Structural Integrity has significant experience and knowledge in lab and field-based methodologies used for Material Verification. We also have experience developing programs for segment identification, population grouping / sampling, defining test procedures, and implementing and managing in-situ and lab-based testing.
For an East Coast pipeline operator, Structural Integrity completed a detailed review of the operators' security procedures and related security documents to evaluate their alignment and consistency with the Pipeline Security Guidelines for transmission pipelines, natural gas distribution pipelines and LNG facilities created by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Structural Integrity provided consulting for a major Midwestern gas distribution pipeline operator completing a comprehensive review of their TIMP and DIMP Programs. We completed this review using our intimate knowledge of 49 CFR, Part 192, PHMSA Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and PHMSA Inspection Protocol as guidance. As part of this effort, we completed a detailed review of the clients' DIMP and TIMP Plans, corresponding Risk Models and relevant sections of the Company's O&M Procedures.
For a major east coast pipeline operator, Structural Integrity developed protocol and supporting software tools to complete MAOP verification on over 2,700 miles of transmission pipelines. The project team sorted and reviewed tens of thousands of records identifying Traceable, Verifiable and Complete Records that would provide support in establishing the MAOP for each segment. Key metadata and record identifiers were stored in a database and program tools were used to calculate MAOP based on code requirements.
For the pipeline's leading industry research institute, Structural Integrity completed a major research project to develop field protocol to apply a newly developed Material Verification (MV) technique and then validated this methodology along with other proprietary MV techniques commonly used to predict material properties based on in-situ measurement techniques.
Pipelines are more than
Aging pipelines and facilities pose challenges for operators tasked with providing safe and reliable oil and gas transmission. Structural Integrity has in-depth experience supporting pipeline operators in completing various assessments on pipelines and facility piping, employing a wide range of tools and techniques. Our consulting expertise enables us to support the full assessment cycle from evaluation and implementation of the right assessment methodology, to evaluating defects and making recommendations on repairs and re-assessment intervals. With accurate, objective data, operators can better understand their assets and make informed decisions regarding pipeline safety and capital investments.
The primary objective for performing ILI is to determine the condition of the pipeline, identify and remove defects detrimental to the integrity of the pipeline, and ultimately ensure adequate safety margins. In addition to technical aspects pertaining to physical line condition, specific regulatory expectations and deadlines must also be managed.
In-Line Inspection:
An Improvement Over Pressure Testing for Pipeline Integrity Management
2018 AGA Operations Conference
ILI : An Improvement Over Pressure Testing for Pipeline Integrity Management
Pipeline & Gas Journal
Outlining a Structured Approach to In-Line Inspection
Structural Integrity is home to one of the most highly skilled, certified, and diverse teams of NDE consultants in the industry, with personnel certified in all key NDE disciplines. In addition to a detailed certification program, we maintain multiple full-time, senior Level II and Level III NDE inspection team leads that have passed a wide-range of manufacturer qualification and training programs on multiple technology platforms and NDE methodologies. Structural Integrity combines these highly skilled technicians with the latest, most advanced technologies to fully characterize pipeline defects and degradation across a wide range of applications:
• ILI Verification
• Direct Examination
• Crack Characterization
• Corrosion Mapping
Guided Wave Technology
Incorporating Advanced NDE Tools In Bell Hole Inspection
3-Dimensional Mapping of Defects
NDE Services for Oil & Gas
AGA 2013 Operations Conference
Applying Advanced Assessment Methodologies & Guided Wave Testing (GWT) on Difficult to Assess Segments
Development of Direct Assessment plans is some of the initial work Structural Integrity’s Oil & Gas business unit completed over 10 years ago, with many aspects of the plans becoming widely adopted throughout the pipeline industry.
We have since evolved these plans to cover facilities, casings, and other difficult-to-assess segments. Together with our partners, we are able to support the turnkey implementation of all aspects of Direct Assessment to address each corrosion threat (Internal Corrosion, External Corrosion, and Stress Corrosion Cracking).
PHMSA FAQs confirm that integrity assessment provisions apply to all line pipe, including pipe that may be in the boundaries of a facility (e.g. compressor stations, metering stations, etc.). These facilities can prove very difficult to assess using the traditional assessment methodologies as the segments can consist of several short runs with tight bends and various tie-in and connection points limiting the ability to inspect using ILI tools or pressure testing.
Structural Integrity has significant experience performing assessments of facility piping, employing industry experts using a wide range of advanced tools.
Direct Assessment on Difficult to Assess Piping Segments
Performing Direct Assessment on Fabricated Gate & Compressor Station
AGA 2013 Operations Conference
Applying Advanced Assessment Methodologies & Guided Wave Testing (GWT) on Difficult to Assess Segments
Collecting, storing and managing the ever-increasing data can be daunting for operators. Structural Integrity has worked with several pipeline operators to develop specialized field data collection tools and data schema. By storing inspection and assessment data in a relational database and/or integrating with a Geographic Information System (GIS), data can be mined, analyzed and queried to search for patterns or trends and overlaid with other key data sources (such as corrosion defects with CP records).
For a major Southeast utility, Structural Integrity developed a structured process to ensure successful implementation of their ILI projects. The comprehensive process included detailed steps for all activities pertaining to: preparing for the inspection, running the tool, verifying indications, and validating the ILI results. The procedure was integrated with the client's other integrity management procedures, we then provided consulting support to assist in each step of the process on a number of ILI projects.
For the pipeline's leading industry research institute, Structural Integrity led a research project to evaluate NDE performance in characterizing Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) and Electric Resistance Welded (ERW) Seam defects. Multiple NDE technologies including Phased Array UT, Eddy Current Array, IWEX among others, were utilized on pipes containing these defects. Samples were then verified using metallurgical evaluation techniques at our Material Science Center. Truth data from metallurgical testing was then compared against the predicted NDE results.
For one of the leading interstate gas pipeline operators, Structural Integrity completed three major SCCDA projects consisting of nine different pipeline segments spanning over 600 miles of pipelines.
Structural Integrity has completed regulatory approved assessments on hundreds of facilities over the last decade including Gas Compressor Stations, Gas Meter and Gate/Valve Facilities, Crude Oil Pump Storage Stations, Gas Generating Facilities, and refined product terminals. Recently for one of the largest interstate gas transmission pipeline operators, SI completed ECDA and ICDA re-assessment on all their fabricated gate facility piping (metering, compressor, cross-over, etc.)
To help clients navigate changing regulations and manage workforce turnover, Structural Integrity provides frequent training, expertly tailored to meet the needs of all levels of pipeline and facilities operators. We offer a wide gamut of courses, ranging from materials and welding inspections, to comprehensive nondestructive examination, and much more, in an effort to constantly ensure operators have a complete understanding of pipeline regulations and related safety and integrity management topics.
Before Implementing changes to pipeline control room operations, training should be provided to ensure controllers and supporting staff can effectively and accurately implement the change. Training may consist of informal ("on the job") training, formal classroom instruction, field visits, training simulation or any other method that the pipeline operator finds appropriate. We have strong experience formally documenting and providing a comprehensive CRM training program for a pipeline operator. In addition, we can review the OQ requirements for control center staff and those who interface with controllers in pipeline operational decisions and ensure adequate team training.
This course provides a Comprehensive Review of Gas Pipeline Regulations (49 CFR, Parts 191 and 192) governing the design, construction, operation and maintenance of gas transmission and distribution pipelines. The material is presented along with practical exercises to reinforce attendees' understanding of fundamental regulatory principles. An update of current gas pipeline rulemakings and review of anticipated rulemaking changes and proposals is also included.
Structural Integrity offers training by industry leading experts that provide an overview of the basics of fracture mechanics for pipelines. This course is geared for integrity managers and pipeline engineers who need to understand the technical and regulatory challenges associated with managing stress corrosion cracking (SCC), seam weld defects and other crack-like threats to pipelines. This course will build on this basic understanding and cover tools and processes for implementing Engineering Critical Assessments (ECAs).
Structural Integrity can assist clients in building a best-in-class NDE program for the pipeline industry. In addition to a written practice and corresponding support procedures, we can provide the advanced NDE training and certification support to ensure technicians are certified for basic pipeline integrity inspections. Structural Integrity can also provide support and oversight of field testing to ensure clients meet the necessary requirements for certification. We also offer field data collection tools and systems to help facilitate data gathering and expedite reporting.
This course covers the basics of corrosion control practices and key content covered in client's and NACE procedures as well as best practices used in the prevention of corrosion in pipeline assets. The basics of Cathodic Protection (CP), coating types, and system maintenance and troubleshooting are covered. If desired, associated issues with stray current sources and mitigation techniques are also discussed.
Pipeline corrosion and the associated consequences from resulting failures constitutes staggering costs in the form of injuries, environmental damage, and loss of production. Studies completed by the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE), estimate the cost of corrosion on US pipeline systems to exceed $7 billion annually.
Throughout our years, Structural Integrity has developed NACE certified Corrosion Control and Cathodic Protection processes and procedures that assist pipeline operators in solving existing corrosion problems, while ensuring robust corrosion control programs.
Pipeline right of ways will experience greater congestion as the growth in pipeline construction combines with expansion and enhancements to the power grid. This increased sharing of pipeline corridors with high voltage power lines will further drive AC induced corrosion issues. Using specialized software and methodologies, Structural Integrity is able to analyze pipeline and power transmission lines to model the impact of collocated segments for the potential susceptibility to AC Induced corrosion and design solutions to help mitigate any issues.
Similar to other types of corrosion, Internal Corrosion degradation can be a significant threat to pipeline integrity. Following regulatory guidance and general corrosion principles, Structural Integrity has partnered with EnhanceCo to develop a program to properly evaluate the threat and monitor internal corrosion on pipelines.
Development of Direct Assessment plans is some of the initial work Structural Integrity’s Oil & Gas business unit completed over 10 years ago, with many aspects of the plans becoming widely adopted throughout the pipeline industry.
We have since evolved these plans to cover facilities, casings, and other difficult-to-assess segments. Together with our partners, we are able to support the turnkey implementation of all aspects of Direct Assessment to address each corrosion threat (Internal Corrosion, External Corrosion, and Stress Corrosion Cracking).
Structural Integrity offers a wide range of training courses that cover the basics of corrosion control practices and NACE approved procedures, as well as best practices used in the prevention of corrosion in pipeline assets.
Our experience shows that without developing and implementing thorough and well-documented procedures to manage corrosion control activity, firms are susceptible to inconsistent practices and procedures, outdated methodologies, and less-thorough or incomplete processes. Structural Integrity has the requisite experience and expertise to support our clients in the development of their manuals and procedures, ensuring consistent practices and documented protocols.
Structural Integrity implemented an IC monitoring system on a natural gas pipeline system. After completing ICDA, SI developed a detailed monitoring program and installed gas chromatographs to monitor gas quality and Electric Resistance (ER) probes to monitor for corrosion. From this monitoring, we proved a very low likelihood of internal corrosion. The client used this data as input into their risk model and as input to determine future assessment methodologies and reassessment intervals for this segment.
For a major products pipeline in southern Texas major damage attributed to AC corrosion was identified. The 140 mile pipeline was collocated with AC power lines for over 35 miles. With our strategic partner MESA, Structural Integrity collected critical field data, interviewed power companies to gather powerline information, and modeled the AC influence. We then designed a mitigation system that MESA installed. Since installation, no new instances of AC induced corrosion have been identified.
Following development of an Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment (ICDA), a specific cased crossing External Corrosion Direct Assessment (CECDA), and a Guided Wave Test (GWT) procedure for a select Midwestern utility, Structural Integrity implemented all related engineering and field activities to support the assessment. We applied GWT inspections at over 50 cased crossings as well as at ICDA detailed examination locations in accordance with PHMSA recommendations.
of successfull pipeline projects
Structural Integrity is home to one of the most highly skilled, certified, and diverse teams of NDE consultants in any industry, maintaining multiple full-time senior Level II and Level III team leads. Our experts possess a huge depth of knowledge in a wide range of disciplines, methodologies, and techniques, and have pioneered revolutionary new nondestructive examination technologies.
In addition to providing NDE consulting services and advanced field services for the oil and gas pipeline industry, Structural Integrity can also develop detailed procedures, conduct training and certification, and can provide application tools and R&D for our clients.
Our highly-skilled consultants are certified in all key NDE disciplines. When coupled with the latest technology platforms and methodologies, the team at Structural Integrity will provide the most thorough and advanced nondestructive examinations in the pipeline industry, across a wide range of applications:
• ILI Verification
• Direct Examination
• Crack Characterization
• Corrosion Mapping
Guided Wave Technology
Incorporating Advanced NDE Tools In Bell Hole Inspection
3-Dimensional Mapping of Defects
NDE Services for Oil & Gas
AGA 2013 Operations Conference
Applying Advanced Assessment Methodologies and Guided Wave Testing (GWT) on Difficult to Assess Segments
In addition to performing NDE consulting and services, Structural Integrity regularly imparts our knowledge in order to ensure safe and proper inspections are conducted in the field by other engineers and NDE professionals. We provide specific project oversight and fundamental training courses tailored to our clients’ needs, including:
• Basic Bell Hole and/or Pipeline Integrity Inspections
• Fundamentals of Ultrasonic Testing (UT) Inspection
• NDE for Engineers and Managers
• Pipeline Damage and Flaw Evaluation
In accordance with recommended practices from the American Society of Non-Destructive Testing (ASNT), any company performing NDE must have a written program that provides information and guidance on qualification and certification of NDE personnel. Structural Integrity provides custom written practice procedures that incorporate key components of our own internal procedures, whose quality and rigor have been tested at the highest levels of performing NDE at Nuclear, Fossil, and Oil and Gas facilities. We also have extensive experience and can develop the detailed NDE procedures for pipeline operators to support applicable field inspections.
NDE is a constantly evolving field with emerging technologies, advancing processing capabilities, and the application of analytical tools. Structural Integrity maintains dedicated R&D and applied technology teams to help lead the development of these new technologies and find practical applications to solve key challenges facing the oil and gas industry. Whether developing new sensor technologies for integration with ILI tools, new encoding systems for corrosion mapping, or the development of new tools for assessing Corrosion Under Insulation, our NDE R&D team is leading the evolution.
Pipeline operators are often challenged in getting timely, high-quality, inspection reports from the field. Additional costs are often incurred to then import this data into a database with specified schema. Structural Integrity’s Reporting Integrity of Pipeline Tool with Integrated Data Exchange (RIPTIDE) was designed as a solution to this problem and will facilitate consistent and expedient field data collection during pipeline integrity inspections. The solution includes a tablet-based application tool that provides a set of forms that drives systematic integration of the required field data collected during a pipeline integrity inspection.
The solution enables remote off-line data collection and automatic synchronization once on-line connectivity is re-established. Data is synchronized and stored in a standardized SQL database and data can be easily integrated with GIS and/or specified report forms if desired.
Following a pipeline failure due to Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) in the Northeast, Structural Integrity helped evaluate risk factors and completed NDE evaluations at selected dig locations. In addition to inspecting for the presence of SCC and collecting key data on contributing factors (pH levels, microbe testing, soil analysis, etc.), sizing of a number of identified crack features using Phased Array UT was completed. In numerous instances, cracks were sized so a suitable repair decision could be made.
of NDE techniques & technologies
Following development of an Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment (ICDA), a specific cased crossing External Corrosion Direct Assessment (CECDA), and Guided Wave Test (GWT) procedure for a select Midwestern utility, Structural Integrity implemented all related engineering and field activities to support the assessment. We applied GWT inspections at over 50 cased crossings as well as at ICDA detailed examination locations in accordance with PHMSA recommendations.
For the pipeline's leading industry research institute, Structural Integrity led a research project to evaluate NDE performance in characterizing Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) and Electric Resistance Welded (ERW) Seam defects. Multiple NDE technologies including Phased Array UT, Eddy Current Array, IWEX among others, were utilized on pipes containing these defects. Samples were then verified using metallurgical evaluation techniques at Structural Integrity's Material Science Center. Truth data from metallurgical testing was then compared against the predicted NDE results.
