Operational Risk Management​

In a groundbreaking endeavor to enhance operational risk management within the gas transportation industry, Aquila, in partnership with a leading Gas Transportation Company, has spearheaded a transformative project. This initiative involves the deployment of cutting-edge technology to create an improved pipeline field inspection and risk modeling platform with remarkable results and cost-saving benefits.

Aquila's innovative solution harnesses the power of Computer Vision, Data Analytics, and Geoprocessing tools, supplemented by a range of carefully selected sensors, drones, and fixed cameras. This comprehensive approach enables real-time monitoring, assessment, and management of a 234-mile gas pipeline spanning across Louisiana and Mississippi. 

The system offers a multifaceted toolkit that optimizes various aspects of pipeline operations, including:

1. Terrain and Vegetation Management: The system leverages geospatial data and computer vision to monitor terrain and vegetation conditions surrounding the pipeline. This aids in identifying potential risks and optimizing maintenance efforts.

2. Access and Land Use Change Detection: By tracking changes in land use patterns, the solution can provide valuable insights into accessibility, safety procedures, and potential irregular occupation near the pipeline.

3. Logistics and Fleet Dispatch: Real-time data analysis enhances logistics and fleet dispatch operations, optimizing the allocation of personnel and resources.

4. Safety Procedures and Leak Detection: The system continuously monitors safety procedures and can swiftly detect any anomalies, including potential leaks and damages.

5. Operational Condition Tracking: It provides a holistic view of the pipeline's operational condition, ensuring proactive measures to address any issues promptly.

Technology Integration:

Aquila's solution integrates state-of-the-art technologies, including Autonomous Drones guided by Artificial Intelligence (AI) flight path planning. The use of drones minimizes the need for ground transportation and traditional aerial surveys, significantly reducing operational costs. Additional layers of data are obtained from:

• Satellite Radar and Imagery: These sources offer a high-altitude view of the pipeline and its surroundings, aiding in early risk detection.

• Land Use Change Detection: By analyzing changes in land use, the system can identify areas of concern and prompt action accordingly.

• 2D and 3D Extraction: This feature allows for detailed modeling of the pipeline's physical characteristics, facilitating improved maintenance planning.

Outcomes:

Proof of Concept: The project has successfully demonstrated that this architecture can potentially save up to 50% of the costs associated with pipeline inspection. The combination of autonomous drones, AI-guided flight paths, and advanced data analysis has elevated the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of pipeline management.

Aquila successfully revolutionized pipeline management for the Gas Transportation Company, achieving cost savings and improved risk management. This initiative sets a significant milestone in operational risk management within the gas transportation sector and ensures the safety and reliability of critical infrastructure.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in operational risk management within the gas transportation sector. The partnership between Aquila and the Gas Transportation Company is paving the way for more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective pipeline maintenance and management practices, ultimately ensuring the safety and reliability of this critical infrastructure.