Performing regular inspections and assessments is a critical activity in the safe and reliable operation of pipeline systems. To aid pipeline operators in this endeavor, inspection methods and technologies continually advance. National grid recently incorporated advanced pipeline inspection techniques for two high-pressure, 1960s-vintage, 10-in. diameter natural gas pipelines traversing the approximately 1,500-ft wide Cape Cod Canal, which comprise the primary supply sources for Cape Cod. This paper focuses on the selection and implementation of several pipeline inspection techniques, including tethered smart pigs utilizing magnetic flux leakage technology (MFL), live-gas robotic crawlers, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV or drone), along with engineering considerations required to facilitate the execution of these inspections.

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Performing regular inspections and assessments is a critical activity in the safe and reliable operation of pipeline systems. To aid pipeline operators in this endeavor, inspection methods and technologies continually advance. National grid recently incorporated advanced pipeline inspection techniques for two high-pressure, 1960s-vintage, 10-in. diameter natural gas pipelines traversing the approximately 1,500-ft wide Cape Cod Canal, which comprise the primary supply sources for Cape Cod. This paper focuses on the selection and implementation of several pipeline inspection techniques, including tethered smart pigs utilizing magnetic flux leakage technology (MFL), live-gas robotic crawlers, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV or drone), along with engineering considerations required to facilitate the execution of these inspections.

**[Access the Conference Proceedings Paper on ASCE Library](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/10.1061/9780784483602.011)** 


Innovative Pipeline Inspection Technologies Used in the Assessment of Cape Cod Bridges

Papers from sessions of Pipelines 2021, held virtually August 3–6, 2021. Sponsored by the Utility Engineering and Surveying Institute of ASCE. The conference provides a forum for pipeline engineers and practitioners from all around the world to share their experiences in meeting the challenges of today's pipeline infrastructure. This premier industry event has become the conference of choice for utility and pipeline owners, design and consulting engineers, contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, students, educators, researchers, and pipeline professionals. The conference includes surveying as it relates to pipeline and utility projects. This event will provide a dynamic and inspiring venue for participants to share and gain valuable knowledge related to planning, designing, constructing, renewing, operating, managing and maintaining the pipeline assets.

[Paper Proceedings](https://doi.org/10.1061/9780784483602)

Conference DOI: https://doi.org/10.26226/m.6454f875c8d4320012b71046