Trans Mountain and Hifi Engineering Launch Innovative Monitoring

Trans Mountain Partners with Hifi Engineering for Advanced Monitoring

Trans Mountain has made significant strides in enhancing its operations through a groundbreaking agreement with Hifi Engineering. This partnership will deploy a High-fidelity Distributed Sensing (HDS™) fibre optic network, aimed at comprehensive monitoring and improved leak detection for the Trans Mountain Expansion Project. The hybrid fibre optic network will combine a telecommunications cable with Hifi's specialized optical sensing fibre and a dual micro duct conduit to ensure thorough oversight.

Commitment to Operational Excellence

Jason Balasch, Trans Mountain’s Vice President of Business Development and Commercial Services, expressed the company's steadfast dedication to operational excellence. He stated, "Our pipeline system was already monitored around the clock by two leak detection systems through our control centre. This partnership adds another layer of monitoring to enhance safety further using cutting-edge technology from Hifi."

Decade-Long Monitoring Agreement

As part of this collaboration, Trans Mountain and Hifi Engineering have established a 10-year monitoring agreement. This contract ensures that Hifi will provide 24/7 real-time monitoring support from its operations centre, reinforcing the security and integrity of the pipeline system.

Innovative Technology at Work

Steven Koles, President and CEO of Hifi Engineering, welcomed the opportunity to work with Trans Mountain. He remarked, "This agreement exemplifies the effectiveness of distributed optical sensing and advanced technologies like AI and machine learning, which can be utilized across various pipeline types, including oil, gas, and even hydrogen transport."

A Landmark Deployment

The initiative undertaken by Trans Mountain and Hifi positions it as the world’s longest fully distributed fibre optic sensing system operational on a multi-product liquids pipeline. Hifi’s HDS™ system has significantly progressed through a baselining and commissioning phase since the completion of the expansion project. This phase leverages innovative automation techniques to establish baseline pipeline operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Comprehensive Surveillance and Risk Monitoring

The newly deployed fibre optic system will provide enhanced capabilities for detecting leaks, monitoring ground disturbances, and ensuring security along the right-of-way. The system's advanced sensors can detect vibrations, temperature changes, and pipe movement, allowing for the precise localization of potential leaks or other significant events within just a few metres.

Robust Oversight and Safety Management

In addition to the new optic sensing technologies, Trans Mountain's pipeline operations continue to be supported by two computational monitoring systems that are under the supervision of trained control centre operators. In the event of an alarm, operators have the authority to shut down the pipeline as a precautionary measure, ensuring safety is always prioritized.

Agnostic Technology Recognition

This innovative agreement has not gone unnoticed; recently, Trans Mountain and Hifi received recognition from the Fibre Optic Sensing Association (FOSA), being awarded Project of the Year for this notable initiative, solidifying their reputation for cutting-edge technology in pipeline management.

Overview of Trans Mountain Corporation

Trans Mountain Corporation operates Canada's premier pipeline system dedicated to transporting oil products to the West Coast. The organization delivers approximately 890,000 barrels of petroleum products daily through its dual pipeline system, which extends over 1,150 kilometers across Alberta and British Columbia, and extends into Washington state.

Infrastructure and Economic Impact

Furthermore, Trans Mountain manages the Westridge Marine Terminal, a state-of-the-art loading facility that provides crucial tidewater access to global markets. As a federal Crown corporation, Trans Mountain boasts over 70 years of experience and knowledge in delivering exceptional operational and safety management through its extensive crude oil pipeline system.

Introduction to Hifi Engineering

Founded in Canada, Hifi Engineering has gained prominence in the field of advanced fibre optic sensing technologies. Hifi is particularly known for its work in developing and commercializing next-generation systems for preventative monitoring across various critical assets, including pipelines. This ground-breaking technology spans over 3.5 million meters of pipeline globally and has received multiple awards for innovation and project excellence.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

Headquartered in Calgary, Hifi has a significant presence in the market, holding over 100 patents and recently being recognized with prestigious awards for its commitment to sustainability and technology innovation. Their consistent growth and success signify a bright future for both the company and its cutting-edge technologies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the agreement between Trans Mountain and Hifi Engineering?

The agreement aims to implement a fibre optic monitoring network that enhances leak detection and overall pipeline safety.

How long is the monitoring agreement in place?

The partnership includes a 10-year commitment for continuous monitoring support.

What technologies are being utilized in this monitoring system?

The system employs High-fidelity Distributed Sensing (HDS™) technology and machine learning for effective monitoring.

What are the safety measures included with this initiative?

Operators can shut down the pipeline upon an alarm, and the system allows for precise detection of incidents.

What recognition has this project received?

Trans Mountain and Hifi were awarded Project of the Year by the Fibre Optic Sensing Association for their innovative deployment.

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