Smartpipe is committed to developing well engineered, cost effective anomaly investigation programs. This means we will integrate the pertinent information so that all you have to do is review. The final decision is, of course, up to you, but we will make every effort to ensure all the information is available for you to make such a decision effective.

Development of a dig plan for a particular pipeline begins with establishing any variations in its characteristics (wall thickness, SMYS, MOP). The graded dimensions of all of the anomalies (as given by the ILI tool log) within each unique portion (or set of portions) of the pipeline can then be evaluated against criteria as defined in ANSI B31G. Such evaluations can be done graphically, with the depth of each anomaly plotted against its length and the B31G criteria defining a curve on the chart. The anomalies are then identified according to their graded type, and any anomalies of relevant type showing above the curve would be slated for investigation. A second curve, defined by MB31G criteria - a less conservative approach - may also be considered. A third curve, yet less conservative but more precise, is determined by predicted burst pressure calculations tempered with an appropriate safety factor as defined by code or by the client's standards. Any inherent error associated with the ILI tool affecting the graded anomaly dimensions can be taken into account with error bars showing about the plotted anomaly points.

While anomaly selection based strictly on the ILI tool data is one way that we can generate a direct assessment proposal, its validity and precision are enhanced through the GIS. Using it to position the pipeline and its features onto aerial photos provides key information about excavation site environments at a glance. Understanding the sites' environment is vital for maximizing the effectiveness of an anomaly investigation program. A defect that was not scheduled for investigation because its dimensions are not sufficient to affect the integrity criteria may be included in the program because of its proximity to a dwelling or a watercourse: such geographic features are not indicated in the ILI data. If one or more anomalies requiring investigation are in a wet area, the excavation program might be postponed until the ground is frozen so that site access is facilitated without extra cost. A dent situated at or near a foreign line crossing may also motivate an otherwise unnecessary excavation. Further risk assessment is aided by maintaining up to date information on the number and locations of residences near the pipeline and any special needs those residents may have. And the 200-metre buffer zone shown about the pipe allows any class changes or code requirements arising due to subdivision encroachment to be identified.

Smartpipe's standard dig plan proposal gives a choice of three plans with varying degrees of integrity criteria (based on the three different curves discussed above), which can readily incorporate customer specified criteria.

Once an anomaly investigation plan has been decided and field evaluations are carried out, the measured anomaly dimensions can be used to perform a statistical analysis on the uninvestigated graded anomalies data to assess the accuracy of the graded log data and adjust it accordingly in order to effectively reevaluate the dig plan and determine whether any further investigations are required. Also, such data can be associated with the anomaly points plotted in the GIS, to provide a record of the anomaly for ready reference.