Monitoring external loading at geohazard-prone sites is important to prevent damage and pipeline failure. In this context, using in-line inspection (ILI) with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) has become a key tool for assessing geohazard loading effects and monitor pipeline flexural deformation process. Traditionally, IMU tools are combined with ILI tools like caliper or metal loss; however, this is not cost-effective if frequent IMU runs are necessary to monitor ground movements and can restrict operational flow rates during the inspection period. Consequently, the history of measured bending strains or pipeline movements may not be sufficient to fully interpret the pipe response to the geohazard loads. To address this, estimating strain change rates assuming continuous geohazard loading, supports effective risk mitigation strategies.

This paper introduces an ILI technology that integrates an IMU into a cleaning pig tool, significantly reducing inspection costs and enabling more-frequent data gathering. This approach reduces uncertainty in strain changes because of the shorter inspection interval. The tool was deployed as part of the analysis of a crude oil pipeline crossing a complex geotechnical site in the Colombian Andes. Implementing this IMU technology provided valuable insights into the active instability process that was affecting the pipeline integrity, and emphasized the benefits of more-frequent inspections as part of effective risk mitigation measures that address climate effects and external forces threats.