Columbia Pipeline Group deploys new software solution from GE and Accenture

US-based Columbia Pipeline Group (CPG) has deployed the new Intelligent Pipeline Solution (IPS) that helps operators make better decisions regarding pipeline safety and integrity.

Operators can use the new software solution to prioritise the best location to apply the resources to help reduce the potential for unforeseen events.

IPS consists of GE’s pipeline management software combined with Accenture’s digital capabilities and was launched as part of a strategic global alliance formed by the companies in 2013.

Columbia Pipeline Group chief operating officer Shawn Patterson said: "The Intelligent Pipeline Solution provides an integrated, geospatial view of our pipeline assets aligned with critical factors related to pipeline integrity."

The solution integrates data from multiple sources and also combines pipeline attributes, risk scores, inline inspection findings data in addition to information regarding planned assessments, HCA locations, leak history, one-call tickets, emergency valve location, precipitation and fault lines.

IPS comprises a set of filters and layers using which the operators can examine data in various ways to locate areas of interest and evaluate threats or remediation measures.

Accenture North America resources operating group senior managing director Peggy Kostial said: "The global pipeline industry spends $40bn a year to expand and maintain its network of assets.

"Given 60% of all US pipelines were installed before 1970, safety is increasingly a driving factor for operators such as CPG to achieve real-time and remote monitoring of their thousands of miles of pipeline."

IPS will address challenges such as increased compliance regulations, rising demand, and an aging infrastructure by aggregating and evaluating the critical data impacting the pipeline.

CPG currently operates more than 15,000 miles of interstate pipelines.

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Image: IPS will help operators to prioritise the best location to apply the resources and reduce the potential for unforeseen events. Photo: courtesy of General Electric.