Learnings

Outcomes

An ECV encapsulation device for the live Exchange of ECV’s has the ability to be a gamechanger for gas network customer experience. The aspiration to improve customer experience through no interruption maintenance and component exchange has been proven technically viable for a number of meter configurations. 

The project overcame significant design, testing and manufacturing challenges. As result of the additional resource the field trials produced a set of fault free installations, ECV exchanges and no interruption ServiceCam inspections. 

The development of the Pivot-tee exchange device has been successful in outlining a TRL4 concept design and prototype for laboratory demonstrations. 

The portfolio of work has identified several iterations of concept design for an access system and for a temporary sealing method to allow transition between existing and replacement pivot-tee components.  Further work is now required to detail and manufacture field trial prototypes. Concepts have been developed for PE and metallic mains pipeline isolation valve exchange. 

The Servicam modifications to enable access into steel services and negotiate 90 degree bends and has been a very positive outcome and enables non-invasive investigations.  ServiCam use with the Project Zero enclosure was possible to carry out live without any negative effects such as working pressure loss when in use.

Project learning found that the developed encapsulation device could not be used interchangeably between ECV’s and pipeline isolation valves, but that an alternate process can be developed to make use of existing equipment. Further discussion for the next steps may include:

• Further development for internal property ECV Exchanges & field trials.

• Developing the application of the encapsulation device for productionised operations (which may not be for 100% BAU for ECV exchanges), however the majority of exterior ECV exchanges.

• Exploring other uses and means of access for ServiceCam within a gas network, such as access to service pipes through a House entry tee.

• Development of bespoke bypass fittings for reduced excavation footprint and maximised mains flow when adding/exchanging Pipeline Isolation Valves (PIV’s).

• Development of an inflatable isolator for pivot-tee exchanges, possibly in partnership with an inflatable stopper specialist. 

Lessons Learnt

Glove port will need to be able to have either left or right glove attached due to manipulation of contents within the enclosure with a non-dominant hand
Key stakeholders must have buy in at the earliest opportunity, as this can cause delays with field trials and G23 sign offs.
Developed enclosure cannot be used for ECV and Service isolation valves.