Energy fluid transport infrastructures, such as oil and gas pipelines, cross complex territories exposed to hydrogeological risks. Phenomena such as landslides, slope movements, subsidence, or thermal variations can generate mechanical stresses that are invisible from the outside yet extremely hazardous to pipeline integrity.
In contexts where environmental and operational safety is an absolute priority, relying exclusively on periodic inspections or traditional visual surveys is no longer sufficient. It is necessary to have automated, continuous, and predictive control capable of signaling structural distress before a failure occurs.
To address this technological challenge, Earth System, in close collaboration with partners GEI s.r.l. and ASE, has developed TLP ONE: an advanced stand-alone system for the remote pipeline monitoring, specifically for stress and 3D deformations on pressurized pipes.
What is the TLP ONE system and how does it work?
TLP ONE is an integrated solution designed to measure micro-deformations induced by tensile and compressive stresses on metal pipelines.
The core of the system lies in the synergistic interaction between ultra-high-precision sensors, low-power dataloggers, data validation algorithms, and an H24 accessible Cloud platform.
The system architecture is structured into four main phases:
- Field Detection: On each section of the pipeline to be monitored, 3 vibrating wire micro strain gauges equipped with an integrated electromagnet are installed, arranged in a 120° geometric configuration relative to one another.
- Acquisition and Transmission: A dedicated datalogger (with IP66 protection rating and an autonomy exceeding 2.5 years) acquires readings, stores raw data locally, and securely transmits them via GPRS/LTE network to a Cloud database.
- Processing and 3D Reconstruction: An analytical platform applies advanced algorithms to verify data accuracy, discard anomalous spikes, and calculate section stress states, ultimately reconstructing the three-dimensional deformation of the pipeline.
- Early Warning: Upon exceeding preset critical thresholds, the system automatically sends alerts via SMS or email to site managers and can remotely trigger sirens or flashing warning lights.
Measurement technology: Why the 120° configuration?
For non-experts, a strain gauge isa sensor capable of measuring minuscule mechanical deformations that a material undergoes when subjected to a force.
In the TLP ONE system, we use vibrating wire strain gauges, a technology renowned in the geotechnical sector for its exceptional long-term stability and immunity to electrical disturbances.
Placing three sensors at 120° along the pipe circumference provides a 360° overview of the stresses acting on the section. Through this specific geometry, the system does not simply measure a localized elongation; rather, it calculates the orientation and intensity of bending, delivering a complete stress-deformation profile of the pipeline.
Operational benefits for job sites and critical infrastructures
Adopting the TLP ONE system within a monitoring plan offers concrete benefits both during pipeline installation and throughout its normal operation:
- Predictive Maintenance: Early identification of stress points allows maintenance interventions to be scheduled only where and when necessary, drastically reducing operating costs.
- Total Autonomy (“Stand-Alone”): The infrastructure requires no fixed grid power supply. The high-efficiency battery system and low energy consumption guarantee years of continuous operation in isolated areas.
- Dynamic Web Platform: Data can be consulted h24 from any device (PC, smartphone, tablet). The platform allows users to georeference monitored sections, download reports in multiple formats (.csv, .xls, .pdf), and correlate measurements across different sensors.
- Data Integrity: Storing raw data on a MySQL database ensures maximum traceability, making results always recalculatable and archivable for advanced engineering analyses.
A synergy of expertise at the service of the global market
The success of TLP ONE is the result of a shared vision among industry leaders: Earth System‘s experience in producing and distributing precision geotechnical instrumentation, GEI’s know-how in certified electronic design, and ASE’s competence in integrated systems.
Whether you operate on national gas transport networks or complex international pipelines, TLP ONE adapts to the specific engineering requirements of every job site, confirming the flexibility and reliability that have always characterized Earth System’s offering.
Want to explore TLP ONE’s technical specifications?
To consult the technical characteristics table, sensor measurement ranges, and installation options, please refer to the official documentation.
Download the Complete TLP ONE System Brochure here
Do you have a project with specific constraints or require dedicated consulting for infrastructure monitoring? Contact the Earth System team to define the most suitable solution for your needs.
