Natural gas pipeline network in the United States spans over 1.6 million miles (USDOT 2018) crossing areas such those susceptible to landslides. The landslides with excessive ground movement pose a risk of rupture and explosion to the pipeline if not identified and mitigated properly.

This paper presents a case study for a pipeline in the southern part of the United States affected by a landslide. This paper covers discussions on various phases of landslide identification and mitigation process, including identification of landslide, geotechnical subsurface investigation, ground movement monitoring, mitigation plan, and construction.  

This landslide was identified in the area with potential landslide hazard. Review of the Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) based Digital Elevation Model (DEM) suggested an indication of ground movements near the pipeline. A real-time remote monitoring program was implemented to monitor the strains on the pipeline induced by landslide movement. The real-time monitoring system provided an early alert for reactivation of the landslide. Immediately after the alert, a preliminary field reconnaissance confirmed significant ground movement and activation of a landslide which has induced strain on the pipeline. A comprehensive field reconnaissance showed that slope toe erosion and upslope progression of head-cut toward the pipeline right of way as well as recent heavy rainfall events have triggered the landslide movement. A geotechnical subsurface investigation within the landslide mass provided additional information which was used to develop the landslide stabilization with a final goal of mitigating the impact of landslide on the pipeline. Various landslide stabilization options including sheet pile wall, soldier beam wall, and soil nail system were considered, however a soldier beam wall was designed and constructed to stabilize the landslide. Upon the construction of the soldier pile wall, a strain relief excavation was performed around the pipeline to partially relieve the pipeline strain/stress induced by previous ground movements.


Identification and Mitigation of a Landslide Threatening an Operating Natural Gas Pipeline

Division / Sponsors: 
Pipeline Systems Division

Paper Proceedings: https://asmedigitalcollection.asme.org/IPC/IPC2020/volume/84447

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