PRCI recently received additional support and supplemental funding from PHMSA to continue the efforts to collect, compile, and analyze data for determining pipeline susceptibility to Stress Corrosion Cracking, or SCC. The SCC Data Mining Program is a key element of PRCI’s research program on SCC susceptibility (PRCI Program SCC-2) and consists of a consolidated effort to gather an industry database on the operating and environmental conditions that influence the initiation and growth of SCC on pipelines and the conditions where pipelines have not shown any indications of SCC. SCC data were determined to be necessary for three separate PRCI projects established under the SCC-2 Program, including:
SCC-1: Guidelines for the Identification of SCC Sites and Estimation of Re-Inspection Intervals. This project, cofunded by PHMSA, is based primarily on an analysis of published literature but requires field data to validate the conclusions and support the development of guidance for SCC DA and re-inspection. PHMSA has contributed supplemental funding for data mining to support the validation of the guidelines based on actual field data and experiences of operating pipeline companies. Much of the published literature relies on laboratory or other controlled studies, and a more substantial database from actual field conditions will increase the uptake by industry.
SCC-2-4: Operating Conditions Where No SCC Exists. This project requires data both for where SCC has been found and where it has not, and it is equally as important that we receive data from companies that have not experienced SCC as well as those that have. Data for locations where SCC does not exist is more difficult to collect and analyze, and we have tried to characterize each pipeline system only in terms of the number of miles of pipe in the system broken down by class (design stress as % SMYS), year of construction, and coating type. Information from this project will be used in the analysis and validation of guidelines developed under SCC-1 as well.
SCC-2-1: Data Mining. This is follow-on data collection from a previous project, and focuses on detailed records of pressure fluctuations on operating pipeline systems. Pressure fluctuation data will not only aide in the evaluations for the two projects referenced above, but other related project being implemented as part of the SCC-2 Program, including SCC-2-12, Effect of Pressure Fluctuations on Growth Rate of Near-Neutral pH SCC. Data mining will be directed toward companies that have very detailed SCADA records that can be offered in support of the project.
A copy of the SCC data mining survey form (spreadsheet) is posted in “Related Files” below, as well as in the PRCI PRIME system. We have attempted to capture the full breadth of the types of data and information that may be available in operating company records/files and would be of value for the study. There are a number of individual worksheets for the various types of inspections performed. Please note that PRCI and our research contractors will assist in transposing SCC data from various formats to one that is compatible with the analyses we are conducting.
While there has been some data obtained through our past efforts, PRCI is again requesting the support by our member companies in advancing this program and developing the comprehensive industry database for SCC. This database will serve as the foundation upon which further evaluations are performed for qualitative and quantitative analyses on the susceptibility of SCC on operating pipeline systems, and establish a baseline for current conditions upon which further research needs will be identified. In addition, we welcome support from other external stakeholders that may have SCC data that can be contributed for the program. All data will be treated in a confidential and anonymous manner. We are in the final phases of the SCC Data Mining schedule and are making a final push for data collection. Please contact Mark Piazza, Program Manager with PRCI with any questions or to offer your support and assistance in this important program.