bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
L51934 Feasibility of Nd-Yag Laser-Arc Welding Processes for Girth Welding
Authors: Holdren
Published: August 2023

Laser beam welding (LBW) has become standard in many high-production and critical applications where the return on investment can be quickly realized due to the process' inherent efficiency in terms of weld penetration and travel speed. Also, some promising work has been done internationally related to the use of hybrid laser/arc welding (HLAW) for some applications (primarily shipbuilding), so this process variation was also included in the study. However, virtually all of the current LBW or HLAW applications are considered 'factory' applications, and therefore do not represent the logistical challenge associated with bringing laser technology to on or offshore pipeline welding operations. This project was aimed at studying the feasibility of overcoming those logistical challenges in order to realize the potential cost savings of applying this high production process. This study was limited to the application of Nd:YAG lasers (which can be delivered via fiber-optic cable) since the logistics of incorporating higher power CO2 lasers was felt to be impractical. The focus of the project was to study the potential productivity of the LBW and HLAW processes in terms of the thickness of material that could be welded in a single pass at a given travel speed. Additionally, the robustness of the process was determined using weld joints with less than ideal fit up. Potential feasibility of the processes were then determined by considering both the practical aspects of their application as well as the economic justification.
L51494b Design Flow Conditions Near Bottom -- B Phase II
Authors: Spaulding  , Isaji
Published: August 2023

Includes theoretical development and application as well as a user's manual for using a methodology to predict the near-bottom velocity profiles for submarine pipelines stability by integrating the BBLM into a shelf circulation model. Programs and examples are given in the manual.
PR-383-124512-R01 Determination of the Decompression Wave Speed of Mixtures of CO2 with Impurities
Authors: Botros
Published: August 2023

EPCRC (Energy Pipeline Cooperative Research Centre in Australia) has developed a software package called EPDECOM to calculate the decompression wave speed of carbon dioxide mixtures containing impurities. The present report summarizes findings from the evaluation of the beta version of EPDECOM. The evaluation was based on the results of testing the 43 mixture compositions of CO2 binaries and the anthropogenic CO2+impuries used in the ALT-1-2 project.
L51584 Effect of Water Chemistry on Internal Corrosion Rates in Offshore Pipelines.pdf
Authors: Shannon
Published: August 2023

This work is an extension of a program reported in 1984 to establish factors which control corrosion of API line pipe in gas containing carbon dioxide and water. In this phase of the program, there were four objectives. One was to establish the temperature of maximum corrosion in the range of 75�, 100� and 175�F at 1000 psi in water saturated with carbon dioxide at partial pressures of 15 and 50 psia. The next was to explore the role of carbon content and microstructure in the steel, iron carbonate film formation, and resulting corrosion rates. The third was to examine the role of pre-existing mill scale and corrosion films on accelerating pitting attack. The final objective was to extend a spread sheet computer model to calculate corrosion rates from field data.

Tests were run in a refreshed, recirculating autoclave at a total pressure of 1000 psi in water saturated with CO2 at partial pressures of 15 and 50 psia, and containing bicarbonate ion to adjust the pH either to 5 or 6. Six materials were tested: ASTM-A53B, two lots of API5LX-X52 and three lots of API5LX-X60. Samples were pulled at intervals for weight loss corrosion and to examine the surface films by electron microscope and metallography. After plotting the weight loss results, corrosion rates in mils per year (MPY) were calculated. The microstructure of the metal, the corrosion films of iron carbonate, and the weight loss results were then examined. The corrosion data were incorporated into a spread sheet computer model for users to calculate their own pipe line corrosion rates.
L51925 Detection of Anomalies in Coated Pipelines Using Long Range Ultrasonics
Authors: Dawalibi
Published: August 2023

Long-range guided wave pipeline inspection is claimed to be able to inspect ranges of well over 30 meters (100 Feet) in either direction (i.e. total inspection greater than 60 Meters or 200 Ft.) from a single position. In terms of inspected meters per measurement and cost per meter this technique can be a fundamental improvement from conventional methods for pipeline inspection. For inspection of hard-to-access locations it offers a good on-stream screening alternative by being able to image the pipe section from an easier-access location. Examples of inaccessible locations are road-, railway-, river-, dike- and other crossings. Excavating the pipeline for inspection at these locations is expensive and the potential cost savings of a technique like long-range pipeline inspection are attractive.

The objective of this project was to combine theory, modeling and experimental/operational elements in order to be able to handle the more complex situations as found at buried sections of pipelines, more specifically bitumen coating. Laboratory and field experiments supported by modeling and developing an approach to inspect a coated pipe configuration are parts of this work in order to get both reliable and practical knowledge. Another important part was the evaluation of the different transducer and equipment concepts available and establish their merits. In the project the propagation and reflection of guided waves was modeled and simulated for relevant situations. Two suppliers, SwRI and PiL, were involved in laboratory trials and field trials both to confirm the modeling and obtain a clear view of the practical aspects in operation and the actual capabilities of their systems. Modeling resulted in a formula providing estimates for the reflectivity of defects. Using scaling rules these were compared to data obtained in the laboratory trials.
L52353 Materials Selection, Welding and Weld Monitoring - Optimized Welding Solutions for X100 Line Pipe
Authors: Daniel
Published: August 2023

Two rounds of pipe welding were completed to understand the influence of the welding parameters on the weld metal and HAZ properties and microstructure. Thermal data was also obtained from these welds. This information was used to refine the thermal microstructural model with predictive capabilities. Essential welding variables were validated on flat plate experiments and recommendations for welding process control established. Ultimately, these recommendations were evaluated by pipeline welding contractors to assess its viability for field application.
L41030 Correlations and Various Weld Cracking Tests
Authors: Glover
Published: August 2023

The thermal contractions of a cooling weld my easily produce average strains of several percent in the weldment. Since hydrogen, which is likely to be present, can embrittle the steel, it is not surprising to find that welds in steel often crack. In order to try and control this phenomenon therefore requires a study of both the strains in a weld and the embrittling effect of hydrogen.
L52280 In-Situ Measurement of Pipeline Mechanical Properties Using Stress-Strain Microprobe - Validation
Authors: Haggag
Published: August 2023

Most pipeline companies operate infrastructure that spans a wide range of vintages including pipelines that were built in 1950s to the 2000s. Some of the pipelines have changed hands, and in many cases, more than once, resulting in a loss of the operating history and of pertinent pipeline data relating to the grade or mechanical properties. In the case of pipelines of unknown grades, PHMSA (OPS/DOT) stipulates the assumption of a 24 ksi yield strength, regardless of its construction. OPS also allows the establishment of the Specified Minimum Yield Strength (SMYS) of the pipeline by verifying its yield strength by carrying out statistically valid sampling. Conventional tensile testing requires the removal of samples from the pipeline for testing which results in temporary line shut down and loss of transmission service. The constructability issues around this are complex, and it requires line repair after sample extraction. In addition, this can result in a loss of throughput and consequent disruption of supply.

An appropriate and relevant amount of data from the nondestructive Automated Ball Indentation (ABI) tests and the destructive tensile and fracture toughness tests provides reasonable statistical data sets to establish the validity and accuracy of the ABI technique which produces both tensile and fracture toughness properties from each single test. The ABI test (accomplished in less than two minutes) is now proven to replace both the tensile and fracture toughness tests without specimen machining or service interruption, and it requires only localized surface polishing of in-service pipelines.
PR-015-084510-R01 Evaluation of External Leak Detection Systems for Liquid Pipelines
Authors: Siebenaler
Published: August 2023

A project was conducted to determine the viability of various external leak detection systems for use on liquid pipelines.� This project defined external leak detection as a means of detecting unintended pipeline discharge without the use of pressure or flow modeling. Specifically, this project was focused on the ability to detect leaks that are too small for most computational pipeline monitoring (CPM) systems to detect.� A list of possible technologies was assembled and a tradeoff study was conducted to rank the technologies.
PR-015-0835-R01 Development of Variable Cathodic Protection Criteria
Authors: Song Frank
Published: August 2023

The CP criteria for buried piping systems are not consistent in different global CP standards. For instance, the standard of the International Standard Organization (ISO) and the European standard (EN) offer more specific CP criteria with respect to environmental conditions such as soil resistivity, aeration, presence of bacteria, pipe temperature and overprotection. However, they do not have the -850 mV on-potential criterion contained in the NACE Standard SP 0169-2007. The Australian National Standard (SAA) recommends the use of coupons or an electrical resistance (ER) probe in conjunction with the -850 mV off-potential or the 100 mV polarization criterion, which was not included in the above standards. Based on operators� experience, the current CP criteria in the NACE Standard SP 169-2007 may not always assure that pipes are effectively protected and some pipe/soil environments may require alternative criteria such as those in other global standards. This effort aimed to collect and analyze available global CP criteria and data to better understand why and when the NACE Standard SP0169 criteria are effective. By compiling and reviewing global CP criteria along with field and laboratory data, the report provides recommendations on evaluation of the -850 mV on-potential criterion, the -850 mV off-potential criterion, the potential criteria in high resistivity soils, the 100 mV polarization criterion, and CP criteria with elevated temperatures and bacteria. It also discusses how the joint use of monitoring and inspection devices with the effective use of CP criteria may affect how appreciate the significance of CP criteria in pipeline external corrosion control and the overall pipeline integrity management. Significant research is still needed to understand the effectiveness of CP criteria from a fundamental perspective. Mathematical modeling of a pipeline CP system with consideration of both the temporal and spatial variations of the pipe potential and corrosion rate and solution chemistry near the pipe surface should be performed. This would provide a broad understanding of the effectiveness of CP criteria from both macro and micro scales.
PR-015-08610-R01 Laboratory Conformation of the Effect of Methanol on Gas Chromatograph Performance
Authors: George
Published: August 2023

In natural gas production and processing applications, methanol is commonly injected into natural gas streams containing water to prevent the formation of hydrates in gas lines and subsequent equipment damage. However, gas chromatographs (GCs) at field sites are typically not equipped to identify or measure methanol, and unless excess methanol is expected to carry over into a gas stream, samples sent to a laboratory are not likely to be analyzed for methanol. As a result, the potential exists for errors in gas property determination, particularly in heating value and sound speed. A previous PRCI project investigated the potential for GCs to quantify methanol as a hydrocarbon, and estimated the resulting errors on heating value and other properties. This theoretical study used assumptions about where methanol would elute on GC columns, but experimental data on GC performance in streams with methanol was unavailable to verify these assumptions.
To verify the estimates of the theoretical study, this project collected experimental data on methanol elution behavior in a series of field and laboratory GCs, and established the errors in computed natural gas properties caused by methanol behavior. Three GCs used by the laboratory of a PRCI member company were nominated for testing: ABB NGC 8206 C7+ field GC, Agilent Model 7890A laboratory GC, configured for extended natural gas analysis, and Daniel Model 575 C6+ field GC.

The separation columns, valve configurations, and other design features of these GCs that could influence methanol elution were reviewed. Since each GC was predicted to respond differently to methanol, the nominated units were accepted for testing. A fourth GC, a Varian CP-4900 Quad MicroGC outfitted to quantify methanol, was provided to the lab to serve as a reference unit. Hydrocarbon base gas compositions were chosen to represent production and transmission gases and a gas blender was consulted to identify an effective method of stabilizing the methanol content of the test gases delivered to the GCs. Lab personnel and the gas blender then provided the required hardware and the test and calibration gases, with the gas blend compositions traceable to NIST.
PR-186-103705-R01 Gap Analysis Charmichael MS Incident
Authors: Beavers
Published: August 2023

The NTSB investigation of the 2007 Charmichael, MS Incident where an ERW pipeline failed was reviewed. The review looked for gaps between the NTSB recommendations and research planned or underway at PRCI.
PR-015-07203-O01 Deposit Response Program using the ASTM D6201 Ford 2-3L IVD Test
Authors: Brunner
Published: August 2023

A summary report to determine the effect of increased levels of Drag Reducing Agent (DRA) in gasoline on engine deposits, specifically intake valve deposits. Eight ASTM D6201 tests on the Ford 2.3L engine were conducted � three with 15 ppm DRA in fuel, three with nominal 25 ppm DRA in fuel, one with no DRA but a standard lowest additive concentration (LAC) package, and one with no DRA and no detergent additive.
PR-309-04200-R01 Modeling Methodology for Parametric Emissions Monitoring System for Combustion Turbines
Authors: Beshouri
Published: August 2023

Prior attempts to develop a generic Parametric Emissions Monitoring methodology for combustion turbines, particularly low emissions units, have failed due either to the reduction of a complex problem to too few degrees of freedom or the brute force reliance on regression analysis. Field test data collected by the research team clearly illustrated that a successful PEMS model will need to incorporate multiple zones to account for pilot fuel versus pre-mixed combustion, and changes in air/fuel ratio at the flame front. The information reported herein shows that, ideally, the PEMS model should rely on speed, fuel flow, compressor discharge pressure and temperature, and ambient conditions as the inputs. The model can utilize (combustion turbine) turbine discharge temperatures as cross checks and/or for tuning. Make and model specific geometric characteristics should include compressor air flow versus speed, air splits between the combustor and the cooling air, and the fuel splits between diffusion and premixed. Finally, the model should be able to accommodate fuel that varies in composition based on provided gas speciation.
PR-015-073504-R01 ECDA Techniques for Shorted and Non-shorted Cased Crossings
Authors: Song  , He  , McFarland
Published: August 2023

This report contains the results of review of literature related to external corrosion of carrier pipes inside casing, descriptions of related corrosion mechanisms, descriptions of related corrosion detection techniques and methodologies, and the results of cathodic protection shielding and related testing using realistic pipe-casing models. The report additionally contains methodologies for Casing Corrosion Direct Assessment (CCDA) and risk assessment, descriptions of corrosion prevention and remediation methods, descriptions of monitoring techniques, and recommendations for future research. The primary intent of this report is to provide pipeline operators with a consolidated body of work that will assist the pipeline operators with development and implementation of procedures for dealing with external corrosion and cathodic protection issues related to carrier pipes inside casings, or that will assist with improvement of existing pipeline operator procedures.
PR-015-11701-E01 PRCI Meter Station Design Tool
Authors: Zepeda
Published: August 2023

User manual and installation software for the meter station design tool.
PR-339-093702-R01 Human Factors Influences on Pipeline Damage - Phase II Final Report
Authors: Atwood  , Franklin-Alderman
Published: August 2023

Pipeline operators expend substantial efforts to develop, implement, and audit their Public Awareness and Pipeline Damage Prevention Programs. While the rate of pipeline damage incidents from third-party and outside force impacts has progressively declined over a period of several decades, these events remain a high priority for the pipeline industry and external stakeholders. One key focus area for Encroachment Detection and Damage Prevention is understanding and managing Human Factors influences in damage prevention programs. This document presents the findings of the Phase II study on the influences of human factors on pipeline damage and damage prevention efforts. The Phase II study builds on the prior literature review and site visits with pipeline operating companies to identify Human Factors issues in Encroachment Detection and Damage Prevention (Phase I). As a result of the Phase I study, over 200 Human Factors issues were identifed that pertain to Encroachment Detection and Damage Prevention. The Phase II study focused on the top 25 issues (as identified by the pipeline operating companies). The report presents the results of two-day workshops that were organized in five countries to develop interventions for each of the 25 high-priority Human Factors Issues. The Final Report includes a �Users Guide� that identifies practical Human Factors interventions to address Encroachment Detection and Pipeline Damage for the 25 high-priority issues. The Users Guide is included in this report as Appendix D. It is also published separately.
PR-405-113604-R01 Develop a New Unique AC Corrosion CP Mitigation Criterion
Authors: Baete Christophe , Rose Alan , Bortels Leslie
Published: August 2023

This project aims to identify the most appropriate AC corrosion criteria based on literature data and analyses. In total 67 papers were reviewed in order to identify mechanisms of AC induced corrosion on pipelines under cathodic protection and possible stray current interference. The fundamental principles of AC corrosion form the basis for the ACCorSolver software developed by Elsyca. The software is explained and its capabilities are briefly discussed. The modeling software can be used to predict up-front the risk of AC corrosion. In this project the ACCorSolver was used to study the effect and sensitivity of the different parameters of AC corrosion.

This report has a related webinar.
PR-319-084511-R01 Advanced Development of Proactive Infrasonic Gas Pipeline Evaluation Network (PIGPEN)
Authors: Frish
Published: August 2023

A third party damage prevention warning system must have the following important attributes; the ability to accurately detect excavating activity in dense, noisy and high traffic areas, low maintenance requirements, be relatively easy to install, provide 24/7 coverage, and exhibit a low rate of false alarms. Systems that detect and quickly notify of encroachment or insufficient practices near gas pipelines would enable pipeline operators to take actions to avoid damage incidents. Early warning provides pipeline owners the ability to respond to an intrusion in time to prevent pipeline damage, and preclude incurring the additional cost and risk of repairs.

The pipeline intrusion warning system being developed in this project addresses this need. Its benefits will include: 1) increased safety, 2) reduced number of third party damages to pipelines, 3) reduced system downtime and customer disruption, 4) reduced costs of damage repair, 5) improved communication between the equipment operators and the utility operators, and 6) longer life and improved integrity of the pipeline infrastructure.

This report summarizes and documents a program completed by Physical Sciences Inc., Heath Consultants, American Innovations Inc. and NYSEARCH/Northeast Gas Association with co-funding from the US Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Pipeline Research Council International (PRCI-Year 1 only).

The report is also available from DOT PHMSA Contract # DTPH56-08-T-000019
PR-478-143723-R01 Evaluation of Large Stand Off Magnetometry Techniques
Authors: Jarram Paul , Keogh Phil , Tweddle Dave
Published: August 2023

Monitoring the integrity of buried ageing ferromagnetic pipelines is a significant problem for infrastructure operators. Typically inspection relies on pig surveys, lDCVG, CIPS and contact NDT methods that often require pipes to be uncovered and often at great expense. This report contains the results of trials carried out on a controlled test bed using a novel remote sensing technique known as Stress Concentration Tomography (SCT) which claims to be capable of detecting corrosion, metal defects and the effects of ground movement by mapping variations in the earth's magnetic field around pipelines. The physical law upon which SCT has been engineered is Magnetostriction which is the process by which internal domains inside the structure of ferromagnetic materials, such as carbon steel alloys, create magnetic fields when subjected to mechanical stress. This report contains the results of controlled trials of the technology which potentially offers pipeline operators, particularly those of non-piggable pipelines, the benefit of considerable inspection cost savings since it is a non-invasive technique and no modification to the line or its operational parameters is required.
PR-218-123603-R01 Procedure for Determining the Number of Excavations to Validate SCCDA
Authors: Desjardins  , MacKenzie
Published: August 2023

A challenge facing pipeline integrity groups is how to determine the number of digs required to confirm the presence or absence of SCC in a pipeline section as part of the Direct Assessment process. A Bayesian statistical methodology has been developed to solve this problem. The pro-cess requires the definition of a probabilistic susceptibility, which is the likelihood that significant SCC exists somewhere on a pipeline. The SCCDA�s probability of success to find SCC also plays a central role. Based on the initial probabilistic susceptibility (prior probability) and the SCCDA success rate, the Bayesian formula updates the likelihood of SCC, based on the results of the excavations. The number of excavations is determined when the absence of SCC is estab-lished to a predetermined confidence level. The required confidence level is left to the discretion of the pipeline operators.
PR-261-15609-R01 Machine Learning Algorithms for Smart Meter Diagnostics Part II (TR2701)
Authors: Crowe
Published: August 2023

Modern smart meters provide an abundance of diagnostic data. Detecting abnormalities in this data can be difficult given the sheer quantity of information. Determining what kind of readings constitute normal operation versus an impending problem has been the subject of significant research; however, there is still room for improvement in real-time fault monitoring. Statistical models known as Machine Learning Algorithms (MLAs) have been identified as a potential solution. A new feature set was selected that allowed for extension of MLAs to ultrasonic meters with different path arrangements. Principal Component Analysis was used to give structure to and visualize multidimensional ultrasonic meter data. The results showed that MLAs may be extended to meters of different sizes, manufacturers, and from different flow facilities.
PR-454-134505-R01 Strain-based Design and Assessment - Integrity Management
Authors: McKinnon
Published: August 2023

The objective is to develop an integrity management approach that would meet industry needs and could be the basis for codes and standards development by relevant pipeline code commit-tees. The approach is to collaborate with the PRCI SBDA committee to come up with a frame-work that could meet industry�s needs to ensure the safe and reliable operation of pipelines that may be subjected to significant ground deformations. This report contains a detailed review of existing integrity management codes and pipeline design codes to establish the guidance that is available for the integrity management of pipelines that have been designed using strain-based design methods. It covers integrity management of high strains in new and existing onshore and offshore pipelines. This report presents a review of the main causes of high strains and describes the critical limit states considered in strain-based design, which may also be used to evaluate a pipelines continu-ing fitness for service after a high strain event. It describes the tasks that can be performed dur-ing each phase of a project to ensure the integrity of a new Strain Based design (SBD) pipeline. The additional integrity challenges associated with a high strain event in an existing non-SBD pipeline are presented. A detailed review of the capability of existing in-line tools to measure axial and bending strain is presented. Preliminary reviews of available external tools and technology that can be used to es-tablish the material properties of the line pipe and weld material, which are needed to establish the fitness for service of an existing non-strain-based design pipeline, is presented. A preliminary review of the methods used to detect and measure defects in girth welds and confirm that the allowable defect size has not been exceeded, is also presented. A flowchart covering the key actions and decisions to be made by a pipeline operator in the event of a high strain event is also included. This report presents recommendations for future study and development work based on the guidance and technology gaps identified during the study.
PR-472-144505-R03 Development of Guidance on Subsea Launchers and Receivers
Authors: Timmermans Jeroen
Published: August 2023

In Phase 1 of this project, a complete catalog of existing launching and receiving systems was created and experience feedback from a broad industry group was gathered. The majority of the hazards identified from the Phase 1 feedback were related to the installation, operation, and environmental aspects of subsea pig launching/receiving activities. This document presents project Phase 3, which addresses the most commonly encountered hazards of these three areas by developing guidelines and best practices and by identifying new concepts to further improve subsea launching/receiving safety and reliability.

This report has a related webinar.
PR-444-133602-R01 Assessing the Integrity of Coating Systems on Pipelines in Trenchless Crossings
Authors: Segall Sorin , Gummow Bob , Fingas Daniel , Zahraee Mohammad
Published: August 2023

Maintaining coating integrity is critical to the overall integrity of the pipeline. The objective of this research effort is to re-evaluate the various methods of assessing coating quality of pipelines installed using horizontal directional drilling (HDD), to recommend the most reliable and cost effective state-of-the-art methods, and to develop a set of acceptable pass/fail criteria, in concert with HDD contractors, that could be embedded into standards or specifications.
PR-261-133603-R01 The Effects of Test Voltage on FBE Coatings
Authors: Samson-Ovia Richard
Published: August 2023

The objective of this project is to study the impact of testing voltages for holiday detection on the long term integrity of FBE coatings. It is designed to determine the optimum testing voltage for locating holidays on FBE coated pipelines without causing damage to the coating, and also to establish an optimal grounding procedure for holiday detection. To achieve the set goals of this project, the work plan was designed to include both laboratory and field testing components.

The coupons used for laboratory evaluation in this study were made from Grade X70, 36� OD X 0.465� WT pipeline with a 16 mil single layer FBE coating. Test voltages ranged from 2.8 kV to 7.1 kV in an attempt to establish an upper cut-off voltage limit above which the coating will be damaged. Temperatures of 20 �C and 40 �C, and relative humidity of 25%, 55% and 95% were tested. Temperatures of 0 �C and -20 �C were also tested to simulate cold climatic conditions. One pinhole holiday size of 790 �m (0.031�) diameter was selected to be milled on all the prepared coupons.
L41046 Applicability of the Industrial Source Complex (ISC) Dispersion Model to Compressor Stations
Authors: Author Unknown
Published: August 2023

The EPA's Industrial Source Complex (ISC) dispersion model was evaluated to determine its applicability to the gas industry. The ISC model uses meteorological data to estimate air quality impacts from multiple source industrial complexes. General features of the ISC model particularly applicable to the gas industry include: 1) Variation of source emission rate by hour and season; 2) Rural and urban mode dispersion parameters; 3) Use of on-site meteorological data or observations from nearby National Weather Service (NWS) surface stations; and 4) Calculation of the effects of adjacent or nearby buildings on dispersion from compressor engine exhaust. Both the ISC Short-Term Program and the Long-Term Program are described and analyzed in this report.
PR-350-124504-R02 Essential Welding Variables Methodology for X70-X65 Linepipe Steels
Authors: Wang Yong-Yi
Published: August 2023

High productivity mechanized welding processes, such as variants of multi-wire pulsed-gas metal arc welding (GMAW-P) have become increasingly popular due to their high production rates. Compared to the conventional single-wire GMAW processes, the high-productivity pro-cesses are more complex in welding procedure design, qualification, and field welding. The characteristics of these high productivity processes are different from that of the traditional sin-gle-wire/single-torch GMAW or shielded metal arc (manual) welding (SMAW) processes that have dominated pipeline construction in the past. The objective of this project is to validate the essential welding variable methodology (EWVM) for welding of X70/X65 line pipes steels by modern, high-productivity pulsed-gas metal arc welding (GMAW-P) techniques to achieve de-sired weld properties while keeping the cost and time of welding procedure qualification to a minimum level.
PR-015-13609-R01 Ethylene Measurements Using Coriolis Technology
Authors: Grimley
Published: August 2023

Testing was completed to assess the applicability of Coriolis flow meters in the measurement of super-critical ethylene. The tests were conducted over the course of more than one year with three brands of Coriolis meters installed in a field site and compared to flow results from a standard orifice meter.
PR-330-063503-R01 Characterization of Stress Corrosion Cracking Using Laser Ultrasonics
Authors: Klein
Published: August 2023

In-service inspection of gas and oil pipelines is a subject of great current interest.� Issues of safety and fitness for service have driven extensive efforts to develop effective monitoring and inspection techniques.� A number of effective NDT techniques have been developed for screening to identify regions of interest for more detailed evaluation.� The three anomalies of greatest interest are (1) corrosion, (2) mechanical damage and (3) stress corrosion cracking (SCC).� In this paper we will focus on the application of laser ultrasonics to the characterization of SCC.
Stress corrosion cracking is the phenomenon in metals wherein the simultaneous presence of tensile stress, a corrosive environment and a susceptible metallurgy leads to the nucleation and propagation of highly irregular and complex cracks, usually found in closely spaced clusters or colonies. In pipelines, SCC has been a particularly elusive and challenging problem. �
Several pipeline failures around the world have been attributed to SCC since its discovery in pipelines in the 1960s.� While the number of incidents attributed to SCC is less than those attributed to other threats to pipelines such as corrosion or mechanical damage, it constitutes a formidable challenge due to the following key reasons:

��� �No reliable and accurate inspection tools or predictive modeling based tools exist that are capable of determining what locations along the pipeline are affected by SCC.
��� �No reliable and widely accepted assessment tools exist for evaluation of SCC, once found.
��� �No reliable and widely accepted tools exist that are capable of measuring the depth of these cracks accurately.
��� �No generally accepted method for fitness for service evaluation of SCC exists.
PR-352-15600-Z01 USM Uncertainty Estimate From Diagnostics
Authors: Rans Richard
Published: August 2023

A method to calculate a common set of Ultrasonic meter Gaussian quadrature �0.809R/�0.309R velocity diagnostics has been developed for multi-path Ultrasonic meters with Gaussian and proprietary path configurations. An uncertainty model has been developed using the changes between the meter's �0.809R/�0.309R calibration velocity diagnostics and the meter's �0.809R/�0.309R first flow/recalibration velocity diagnostics to estimate a Maximum Gaussian Risk/Probable Gaussian Risk calibration transfer uncertainty.
NR199103 Susceptibility of Resistance Flash and Induction Welded Pipe to Selective Seam-Weld Corrosion
Authors: Groeneveld  , Davis  , Williams
Published: August 2023

Following failures which occurred during 1986 in the weld seam of electric resistance welded (ERW) pipe transporting hazardous liquids, the Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS) initiated a study of the quality of some manufacturersÂ" electric resistance welding processes and the future reliability of pipeline segments containing defective ERW seam welds.

Alert notices were sent to pipeline operators by the Office of Pipeline Safety in early 1988 and again in 1989 warning of a potential problem of selective seam-weld corrosion in electric welded pipe manufactured prior to 1970. The objective of this study was to assess the susceptibilities of various types, ages, and sizes of resistance-, flash, and induction-welded pipe to selective seam-weld corrosion.
L51905 Assessment of the Aggressiveness of Various Types of Soils for Low-pH SCC
Authors: King  , Jack  , Yang
Published: August 2023

Empirical evidence from field locations at which near-neutral pH SC has been observed suggests that some types of site and/or soil are more aggressive than others. Soil and site characteristics are the basis of "soils models" which are used to rank areas on a pipeline system according to the probability of SCC in risk assessment models. In this study, solutions extracted from soils ranked according to a commonly used soils model were used to assess their aggressiveness to near-neutral pH SCC in slow strain rate and hydrogen permeation tests. The laboratory testing was supplemented by field measurements of various environmental parameters (redox potential, pH, temperature, and soil resistivity) at pipe depth in locations known to support near-neutral pH SCC. These measurements were made both at a single time at various locations along the ROW and continuously at a number of discrete locations.
L51988 Development of Turbocharger-Reciprocating Engine Simulation (T-RECS)
Authors: Chapman  , Keshavarz-Valian
Published: August 2023

The objective of this project was to develop a numerical simulation system that can be used to optimize the performance of a large-bore reciprocating engine. The simulation system will include sub-models of all major components between the inlet filter and the exhaust pipe of the engine. The deliverable product of this project is the software program, Turbocharger-Reciprocating Engine Computer Simulation (T-RECS), which was developed at the National Gas Machinery Laboratory at Kansas State University. The simulation program calls upon a database of system components to allow the user specify a specific system. The database in this edition of T-RECS contains nominal components, but will be expanded under the Populate T-RECS project that has been funded by the Gas Research Institute. This report contains 1) a discussion of the methodology utilized to develop T-RECS; 2) a user�s guide; and 3) an example problem.
L52207 A Rapid Quality Assessment Method of Magnesium Anodes for Underground Pipeline Service
Authors: Yunovich  , Tossey
Published: August 2023

Girth weld defect acceptance criteria are set and enforced in pipeline constructions per federal regulations (CFR 49 Parts 192 and 195). With the increased use of mechanized welding and AUT (Automated Ultrasonic Testing) in new pipeline constructions, alternative defect acceptance criteria based on ECA (Engineering Critical Assessment) principles are frequently used in lieu of the traditional workmanship criteria that are in the main body of API Standard 1104. Unfortunately, the current alternative defect acceptance criteria of API 1104 Appendix A has not been kept up-to-date with new linepipe materials, welding processes, and pipeline service environments. The objective of this project is to provide technical basis for updating the alternative girth weld defect acceptance criteria in API 1104 Appendix A and other similar codes and standards.
There are two focus areas in this project. The first focus area is to update the alternative defect acceptance criteria to address the immediate need of pipeline constructions in the U.S., typically with pipeline longitudinal strains less than 0.5%, or alternatively termed stress-based design. The materials in the new constructions are typically of micro-alloyed type and the grades are moving higher, up to X80 and X100. These materials did not exist when the current API 1104 Appendix A was adopted. Their behavior is sufficiently different that a fresh look in the current environment is needed. The second focus area is to develop a set of procedures that may be used for determining the girth weld defect acceptance level under high longitudinal strains ( greater than 0.5% and up to 2-4%).
PR-283-14204-R01 SoLoNOx Low Load Controls to Reduce Emissions for Less Restrictive Load Following
Authors: Cowell  , Roesch
Published: August 2023

A Mobile Emissions Lab (MEL) and two site visits for extensive low load emissions mapping were used to document the emissions performance of the test unit over a 10 month period from June 2015 to April 2016. Data was collected over a wide ambient temperature range from 35 to 108?F. The field trial has demonstrated that the new algorithm results in a significant reduction in NOx, CO and UHC emissions from idle to 50% load. Reductions in CO and UHC emission of 50 to 99% were demonstrated from idle to 50% load. NOx emissions reductions were slightly less ranging from 20 to 75% from idle to 50% load. The emissions performance above 50% load were unchanged when comparing the LLC to the production algorithm. Continuous emis-sion measurements indicate that emissions of NOx and CO were very consistent with average levels of 6 and 1 ppm, respectively. No clear emission variation trends were evident with ambient temperature or engine speed (load). By extending the load range with bleed valve control the engine heat rate was increased slightly from idle to 50% load and with no impact measured from 50 to 100% load.
PR-543-153601-R01 The Effects of Spray Polyurethane Foam on the Cathodic Protection of Pipelines
Authors: Ellor James A. , P.E.  , Ault J. Peter , P.E.
Published: August 2023

The current program examined the use of structural spray polyurethane foams (SPF) used in the pipeline industry as line supports (foam ditch pads) or as erosion-control devices (foam trench breakers). Of concern are requirements that pipelines are protected by �non-shielding� coatings and that cathodic protection design must consider �electrical shielding.� Cathodic protection current may pass through or around the foams depending on the foam properties, surrounding electrolyte conductivity, and foam bonding to the pipeline. The program studied SPF impacts on cathodic protection of simulated under-ground steel pipelines.
PR-586-15213-R01 Pipeline Vertical Booster Pump Design Operation and Maintenance Best Practices
Authors: Dickau Ralph
Published: August 2023

The vertical can booster pump is used extensively in pipeline service where low suction pressures prevent the use of above-grade horizontal pumps. These typically appear at storage terminals for transferring oil from storage vessels (tanks) to large pipeline pumps or to other storage vessels. The pump is capable of moving oil with very low inlet pressures by virtue of placing the motor at the top and the impellers at the bottom of the pump often well below grade and using the static pressure generated by the oil through the vertical elevation difference to ensure that the suction requirements of the pump is met.

The booster pumps are often improperly designed or selected and further are misapplied or inappropriately used. The industry standards for vertical can booster pumps, are generic and do not consider all of the special requirements and service needs in pipeline applications. The missing information must be considered if a long life is expected from the pumps.

This study examines and reports on the best booster pump practices considering the unique design issues for pipelines and further how the pumps should be specified, operated and maintained to ensure long term service.

This report has a related webinar.
PR-185-143600-R01 Assessment of Corrosion Model Error for Metal-loss Defects in Pipelines
Authors: Leis Brian , Zhu Xian-Kui , McGaughy Tom
Published: August 2023

This project assessed the modeling error of current Level 1 corrosion criteria of ASME B31G and Modified B31G by quantifying the role of the shape factor (SF) and the bulging factor (BF) as causes for large scatter of failure predictions. The goal was to minimize the error and to reduce the conservatism in those corrosion assessment models and potentially reduce unwarranted maintenance efforts without increasing operator risk.

Extensive elastic-plastic finite element analyses (FEA) were performed on corroded pipes in three-dimensional conditions for a wide range of corrosion defect shapes and sizes, pipe geometries, grades, and material properties.

The FEA results were trended as the basis to reformulate a new corrosion criterion.
PR-244-9827-R04 Finite Element Parametric Analysis of Pipe Collapse
Authors: Chen Qishi
Published: August 2023

This work focused on validation of the finite element models by simulating experiments carried out in other phases of the project.
GRI-99-0275 Evaluation of High Pressure Injection of Fuel Gas in Large-Bore Natural Gas Engines
Authors: Willson
Published: August 2023

An evaluation of high pressure fuel injection on large bore natural gas fueled engines.
PR-244-9827-R05 Full-scale Local Buckling Tests of Corroded Pipes
Authors: Chen Qishi
Published: August 2023

This work focused on the effect of corrosion defects on compressive strain limit state at the incipient of buckling. A total of 10 tests in three series have been carried out on NPS24 grade X70 line pipe.
GRl-95-0377 Risk Assessment of Converting Salt Caverns to Natural Gas Storage
Authors: Harrison  , Ellis
Published: August 2023

A total of 23 potential root causes for large releases of compressed natural gas (CNG) from salt caverns converted from other uses were identified and ranked in terms of relative risk using a modified-Delphi method.

While the highest single relative risk was wellhead failure, resulting from vehicular collision, the absolute risk for this and the other less severe risks was determined by implication to be extremely low, as indicated by the historical record. The storage of CNG in converted salt caverns has been extremely safe, with more than 190 cavern-years of experience without a Department of Transportation reportable accident.

The analysis also determined that considerable diligence is required in designing and executing a cavern conversion, just as considerable diligence is required in creating a new CNG storage cavern. A number of conditions were identified which could lead to the decision not to convert an existing cavern to CNG storage.
L52084 Improving In-line Inspection for Mechanical Damage in Natural Gas Pipelines
Authors: Torres  , Dean
Published: August 2023

Mechanical damage is the single largest cause of failure in gas transmission pipelines.� While mechanical damage can be induced by several mechanisms, one of the most important is third party interference.� This damage can vary from gross disturbances of the curvature of the pipe to very subtle work hardening of the pipe material caused by scrapes or gouges.� Safe and effective Risk Management of the pipeline system requires a method to detect and quantify this damage before it becomes critical.

A full and accurate assessment of pipeline condition requires the use of multiple technologies.� Each technology provides a portion of the information required for defect assessment.� When the data from each technology is viewed concurrently or fused, then various pipeline defects can be discriminated and characterized.� This multiple technology concept has been used, to a limited extent, to discriminate dents from other pipeline imperfections.� Data from a caliper or sizing survey when viewed in conjunction with the information from a Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) corrosion inspection does provide the additional information necessary for better defect discrimination.� By merging the data from five separate and distinctly unique technologies, full defect assessment and characterization will be possible.
L52043 SCC Initiation Susceptibility Ranking-Screening
Authors: Unknown Author
Published: August 2023

The objectives of this project were: To increase the understanding of the metallurgical factors controlling low pH SCC initiation and crack propagation; To extend and enlarge the pool of test data relating to linepipe low-pH SCC susceptibility and to generate data to enable comparison of European and North American materials; and To further verify the standardised test procedures developed by EPRG for investigating crack initiation and crack propagation.
L51904 High Temperature Performance of Existing Pipeline Coatings
Authors: Payer
Published: August 2023

The objective was to establish the performance of commonly used pipeline-coating materials over the temperature range from 120F to 200F (49C to 93C). The results are useful for the prediction of in-service limitations, integrity and time-to-failure of coatings. Results at higher temperature are directly relevant to pipelines operating at higher temperatures. In addition, elevated temperature has been an accelerating factor used to predict performance at longer times at ambient temperature.