An Automated Real-Time Data Analysis Tool for Interpreting Strain Gauge Data

Abstract Strain gauges are among the common instruments used to monitor pipelines threatened by geohazards. Strain gauges, for the purpose of geohazard monitoring, are installed at three or four locations around the circumference of the pipe to measure strain changes due to ground movement. Data from these gauges are typically collected in near real-time if a telemetry station is installed, offering continuous monitoring. This paper presents an automated data analysis tool for pipeline strain monitoring, which processes and analyzes the strain gauge data in real-time. In just a few minutes, this tool produces pertinent information from data collected by the strain gauges, including changes in the maximum tensile and compressive strains, changes in bending directions, accumulation of bending strain (or divergence) on the pipe, and axial strains at strain gauge locations along the pipeline’s circumference. This paper also provides two case studies that highlight the practical application of automated processing of strain gauge data to monitor pipelines affected by geohazards, as well as the process of differentiating geohazard impacts and environmental factors (such as temperature or internal pressure changes). This automated real-time tool expedites the availability of processed data by reducing data processing time and resources significantly while assisting geohazard practitioners in understanding the impact of geohazards on pipelines.