Current status and development trend of in-line inspection data comparison of long-distance pipeline in China and abroad

Based on field investigation of pipeline in-line inspection data comparison techniques in China and abroad, current status of such techniques are discussed. It is found that the main purpose of in-line inspection data comparison is still to identify the change rate of pipeline defects and new defect points. In-line inspection data is not adequately utilized now, so this paper points out that deep and comprehensive utilization of in-line inspection data will be the future target, and puts forward suggestions on subsequent in-line inspections. This paper also proposes that pipeline operation companies should establish a comprehensive analysis mechanism for pipeline integrity data in the second round of in-line inspection integrity revaluation, in other words, considering all relevant factors, the prevention, mitigation and improvement measures should be prepared for specific circumstance. The results will be practically significant for enriching integrity management theory and improving the pipeline in-line inspection data comparison techniques in China.