Under the current 30/30 rule (all metallic mains 30m from property must be replaced within the next 30years) gas distribution networks (GDNs) have to prioritize which mains need to be replaced. A number of these mains are in highly populated areas and although don’t have known leakage issues, still need to be replaced under the above rule.There is no method currently available to monitor live mains and to report any significant approaching failure. The 30/30 rule stipulates all mains must be replaced regardless of history so using the 30/30 rule in all cases will result in some mains being replaced many years before the end of their serviceable life.

Benefits

The current Syrinix product has proved its technological capability within the Water Industry and as such this Project, if successful, would generate learning on the feasibility of applying the same concept to >16” metallic Gas mains.

Once the Project has been successfully completed and proved it will be possible for the three collaborating Network Licensees (NGG,NGN & SGN) to deploy the technique using the Syrinix system.

The key learning from this Project would come from the:

• Ability to monitor large metallic LP pipelines over a variety of distances, ground conditions and locations for the first time
   
• Review and modification of pipeline replacement schedules and practices
   
• Ability to defer spend on some pipelines either short term or indefinitely
   
• Ability to identify Tier 2 pipelines “at risk” from mains with “limited risk”,where there is a mandatory requirement.

Although WWU are not a party to the Project, they will be kept informed of Project developments Once finalised, an industry policy will be developed to allow Networks to know the scope of the technique and allow the Technology to be deployed accordingly.