Automated Pressure Tester

Completed

Fossil Fuels: Oil Gas and Coal(Oil and Gas, Refining, transport and storage of oil and gas)

Applied Research and Development

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering)

Not Cross-cutting

Project Contact
SGN

Network Innovation Allowance

Ofgem

01 September 2015

01 February 2018

35 months

£519,333

Technical Consultancy

South East

Network Innovation Allowance

Project Contact, SGN

The objective of the project is to develop and extend the functionality of an existing Automated Integrity Test Device currently used in the US to suit the needs of the GB gas distribution networks (GDNs). Enabling this equipment to be made available for implementation into business as usual within the GB GDNs will assist in assuring data quality and safety assurance when carrying out pressure testing of assets on the GB distribution network. The project also allows the potential to reduce costs in relation to carrying out the activity of pressure testing of assets prior to commissioning. The success criteria for the project are: Determined device specification requirements. Creation of conceptual designs. Production of full prototype design. Completed software development and wireless communication. Manufacture of prototype(s)Completed offsite testing against predetermined parametersCompleted field trials. Completed final project report.

Pressure testing of assets prior to commissioning after installation, repair, or maintenance is a daily requirement throughout all GB GDN’s operational activities. These essential tests assist in proving the assets are fit for purpose and safe. SGN currently employs over 1600 digital pressure gauges throughout its Scotland and Southern networks that support this activity. During annual calibration and testing it is found that 5% of these gauges fail and require replacement each year, due to the aging population of these gauges the failure rate can be expected to increase in future years, resulting in an increase in replacement costs. The health and Safety Executive (HSE) have challenged the GB GDNs to demonstrate compliance surrounding the recording of pressure testing during these activities. SGN have sought to address these concerns by implementing a comprehensive data capture and audit process. Nevertheless, following a human factors review, it was determined that the automation of this activity could enhance this process. The project seeks to develop an automated pressure tester for use in the GB Gas Distribution Network to be used on mains, services and risers with functionality to suit the needs of the GB GDNs, a key one of which is the ability to adopt appropriate software solutions via the devices proposed ability to upload test data wirelessly to cloud technology. This project has been divided into six key phases, listed below: Develop Specification and Form FactorElectrical Design DevelopmentMechanical Design DevelopmentSoftware and Wireless Communication DevelopmentOff and on site testingProject ReportingNote : Project Documents may be available via the ENA Smarter Networks Portal using the Website link above

07/06/18