Perform External Corrosion Direct Assessment (ECDA) as advanced assessment methodology, following procedures provided to the standard NACE SP0502 to identify and detect external corrosion threats to pipeline integrity. This process combines data collection and multiple inspection techniques to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the external condition of pipelines. This proactive approach identifies and assesses areas susceptible to external corrosion, to carry on mitigation or repair activities ensuring the continued safe and efficient operation of your piping systems.
Key Features:
Comprehensive Data Collection:
Integration of historical data and environmental factors to enhance the accuracy of the assessment.
Utilization of advanced inspection tools and techniques, including Close Interval Surveys (CIS), Direct Current Voltage Gradient (DCVG) surveys, Pipeline Current Mapping (PCM), and soil resistivity measurements.
Detailed Analysis:
Expert analysis of collected data to identify areas of concern and potential corrosion threats.
Use of state-of-the-art software for data alignment, calculations, interpretation, and anomaly detection.
Targeted Mitigation:
Development of customized maintenance and repair plans based on assessment findings.
Prioritization of high-risk areas.
Regulatory Compliance:
Comply with the new regulation of the U.S. Department of Transportation Department of Transportation (DOT). The final rule establishes new standards for identifying threats, potential failures, and worst-case scenarios from an initial failure through conclusions of an incident.
Ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations, including NACE and API guidelines.
Comprehensive documentation and reporting to support regulatory requirements and audit trails.
The ECDA methodology consists of four key stages, each designed to systematically evaluate and address external corrosion risks:
Pre-Assessment:
Collecting and reviewing existing pipeline data, including historical records, environmental conditions, and previous inspection results.
Identifying and segmenting pipeline sections based on factors such as soil conditions, coating types, and cathodic protection effectiveness.
Indirect Inspection:
Conducting field surveys using techniques such as CIS, DCVG, and PCM to detect coating defects, cathodic protection effectiveness, and areas of potential corrosion.
Mapping and analyzing survey data to identify indications of external corrosion.
Direct Examination:
Selecting and excavating specific pipeline segments for direct examination based on the findings from the indirect inspection phase.
Performing detailed inspections, including visual examinations, ultrasonic testing, and soil analysis, to assess the extent of corrosion and validate indirect inspection results.
Post-Assessment:
Analyzing all collected data to determine the overall condition of the pipeline and the effectiveness of existing corrosion control measures.
Developing and implementing a mitigation plan that includes targeted repairs, coating enhancements, and adjustments to cathodic protection systems.
Documenting the entire process and providing a comprehensive report with recommendations for future assessments and maintenance activities.