SAFER, SMARTER, GREENER
© DNV GL
OIL & GAS
PIPELINE UPRATING
Increasing demand for gas requires increased pipeline capacity.
Instead of an expensive new-build project, it is often possible
to demonstrate a pipeline’s safety at an increased pressure,
via DNV GL’s uprating methodology. Uprating can achieve
increased capacity at a fraction of the capital expenditure
incurred by new-build work.
Typically, internationally recognized pipeline design codes allow
operation of high-pressure gas pipelines at levels above their
original design factors. In order to operate a pipeline at higher
pressures, it is necessary to demonstrate that the same level of
safety to the surrounding population and environment is
maintained at the proposed uprated pressure.
DNV GL have developed a proven fitness for purpose
methodology for demonstrating safe operation of pipelines at
design factors greater than the limiting value given by
design codes.
DNV GL are able to apply this methodology in its entirety
on behalf of the customer or, if preferred, carry out separate
tasks alongside the customer.
What are the Benefits?
■■ Independent justification of safe operation to Regulator
■■ Robust documentation suitable for rigorous technical audit
■■ Allows the operator to target resources towards maintaining
or improving integrity through quantified risks.
Proven Track Record
■■ National Grid successfully uprated >1000km of pipeline
utilising systems and methods developed by DNV GL
■■ DNV GL worked with National Grid in developing the systems
and methods
■■ DNV GL has incorporated previous learning points within
current methodology
■■ DNV GL, as principal contractor, has successfully uprated
375km of pipeline for National Grid when DNV GL executed
all works from feasibility study, through assessment and site
remedials, to pressure-raise
■■ DNV GL has worked via other principle contractors to provide
complete uprate safety justifications for National Grid
■■ DNV GL offer modular up-rating work packages that cover an
entire project or any discreet part thereof.
 The required remedial actions were then identified, based on
the results from these assessments.

DNV GL then managed the programme of remedial work,

enabling the uprating to go ahead, on time and to budget.

UK Transmission Pipelines Pressure

Increase (bar)

from to

No.13 Feeder Aberdeen to Wooler 70 84

© DNV GL
Wooler to Bishop Auckland 70 84

No.12 Feeder Kirrimuir to Bathgate 70 85

AGIs and pipeline have been successfully uprated Bathgate to Longtown 70 85
using DNV GL’s methodology
No.2 & 4 Feeders Kings Lynn to Wisbech 70 75

No.7 Feeder Wisbech to Huntington 75 85

“DNV GL showed us how to remove system bottlenecks and
increase revenue through the transportation of larger volumes No.14 Feeder Wormington to Pucklechurch 70 75
of gas without the need for new pipelines…..
No.20 Feeder Kenn to Fishacre 34 75

“We estimate this has saved us in the region of £530m, whilst UK Distribution Pipelines Pressure
Increase (bar)
continuing to maintain safety levels.” - National Grid
from to
DNV GL’s Methodology Safety Justification
7 Distinct Phases Submission to Regulator North London Southhall - Fulham 7 9
Network Reaffirmation
Detail Design
Modification/Replacement
North West Whasset - Natland 9 16
Fitness-for-Purpose Network
Assessment
European Pipelines Pressure
Code Compliance
Assessment Increase (bar)

Stress Analysis
from to

100km Uprating Feasibility Study 40 45

Data Acquisition,
Field Surveys

Feasibility Study

What does it Involve?

The Aberdeen to Wooler 84bar Uprating shows how the
capacity of a pipeline may be increased, even where pipeline
data is incomplete.

DNV GL first of all identified the gaps in the available data, and
considered what assessments and surveys would be required.
In parallel with this, an ‘early-works’ assessment was undertaken
© DNV GL

to identify any essential major works required which may impact

on costs and timescales.

Uprating remedial work is determined according to the quantified risks

A targeted package of assessments addressing functionality,
stress analysis and structural reliability was applied to the
pipeline system.

DNV GL, Holywell Park, Ashby Road, Loughborough, LE11 3GR. Tel: +44 (0)1509 282000, www.dnvgl.com 16902_JS 14.06 2016