The problem of the estimation of the residual life of pipelines.

Abstract

Prediction of the pipeline system residual life can be a valuable tool for engineers and operators in developing future strategies for safe application, including planning technical assessment and inspections, as well as the formation of an effective maintenance schedule. This will minimize the risks of pipeline system failures until the expected end of its service life. However, given the large number of factors affecting the formation of defects of different nature, achieving accurate predictions becomes a challenging task. A detailed assessment and prediction of the main defect indicators in pipeline systems can help to prevent leaks and ruptures at the facility, reducing the risks of accidents and human casualties. This also significantly reduces operational risks, which helps to avoid material losses, including expenses that may be caused by large-scale pipeline replacement. This article examines the main approaches described in the commonly used regulatory standards that allow estimating the service life, suitability for use, and residual life of pipelines. In the course of the work, the following techniques have been studied: inspection, facility testing and monitoring, processing and evaluation of the obtained data on defects, calculation of technical parameters for assessing the suitability of components for their further usage, as well as other engineering recommendations for analyzing the facility at some stages of its lifecycle. Based on the work done, it has been found that the complex use of several relatively different or, conversely, compatible regulatory documents, equipment, and software (considering the specific needs and specifications of the project) is a fairly popular practice that allows you to improve the evaluation process of the residual life and provides more reliable results when assessing the technical condition of the facility.