The interpretation of indirect inspection data and selection of direct examination locations are crucial steps in conducting a successful Stress Corrosion Cracking Direct Assessment (SCCDA) process. This paper presents advances in the interpretation of indirect inspection data and selection of SCCDA direct examination locations and how the accurate selection of locations most susceptible to external corrosion would improve pipeline integrity. Comprehensive case studies from SCCDA digs, practical experience and lessons learnt from these case studies are fully presented.

Stress Corrosion Cracking Direct Assessment (SCCDA), specified in NACE SP0204-2008, was developed to improve pipeline safety and reduce the threat of stress corrosion cracking (SCC) on onshore petroleum pipeline systems. The SCCDA program can be utilized as a primary technique for difficult to pig pipelines and as a supplement technique for inline inspection (ILI) for piggable pipelines. SCCDA is a continuous improvement process that identifies and addresses locations where SCC has occurred, is occurring, or might occur.

The direct examination step of SCCDA involves prioritizing the findings of indirect inspections and excavation (for underground pipelines) of locations where SCC are most likely, the measurement of cracks, evaluation of crack severity, and root cause analysis.

The precise selection of direct examination locations would ensure that pipeline operators can reduce unnecessary and costly excavations while making sure locations most susceptible to stress corrosion cracking are comprehensively addressed to prevent future failure from SCC.

Subject
Indirect inspection, Piping, Cathodic protection, Pipeline integrity management, Walls, Stress corrosion cracking direct assessment, Pipelines, Tools, Corrosion detection, Disbondment, Stress, Anomalies, Stress corrosion cracking
Keywords:
Stress Corrosion Cracking, Inline inspection, MFL, EMAT, Pipe Wall Assessment, Cathodic Protection Survey, AC and DC Voltage Gradient, Pipeline Integrity, SCCDA digs, Data interpretation
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2019
Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP)
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