Integrity Management: Automated Analysis for Class Location

Abstract

Class location analysis is a key component of an effective integrity management plan. Application of class location results vary based on the product transported, but regardless of product, the analysis has requirements of audit, reporting, and annual update. Process definition and reengineering as part of the Natural Gas Business Unit (BP Canada) pipeline integrity management system was a driving force behind implementation of an automated class location analysis. The results of the automation effort have been manifested as: • Reduced data acquisition costs; • Improved data workflow; • Increased data reuse; • Cost savings through personnel reduction, and • Consistency in application of rules defined by the pipeline integrity management system.