Washington Gas has implemented Locusview’s Tracking & Traceability (T&T) technology. Washington Gas has improved pipeline safety by capturing the T&T data on a number of our newly installed plastic pipe and fitting assets. Washington Gas has utilized the T&T data for a few material issues since this initiative began. One example is in the receipt of untapped gauge lines (3/4” lines which extend from either side of the valve to grade; these provide the operator with the ability to determine pressures on either side of the valve) on 2” plastic main-valve assemblies.
An untapped gauge line tee was first identified when that gauge line registered zero pressure after installation. Field crews reported the issue to the Materials Engineering team for review. By utilizing the T&T data, Washington Gas was able to identify valve assemblies that could have the same manufacturing oversight. Washington Gas notified the manufacturer and notified our installers of the matter.
“Our response was more efficient because we knew the population and location of most of these valve assemblies. We are looking forward to expanding out T&T program to capture this important information across more of our operations.”
-Darren Branch, P.E., Manager – DIMP & Special Projects, Washington Gas.
Part of WG’s notification to field crews:
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