Leveraging Machine Learning for Pipeline Condition Assessment

Pipeline condition assessment is a cost-effective method to determine the status of pipeline structure and predict failure probability. Although 100% inspection may not be feasible for decision makers, recent advancements in machine learning techniques have enabled more effective pipeline condition assessment. This paper provides a comprehensive review of machine learning applications in pipeline condition assessment, covering aspects such as fault diagnosis, risk prediction, parameter prediction, and visual defect recognition. The present study endeavors to make the following contributions: (1) extraction of the model, data size, and other relevant information from 91 papers, (2) in-depth analysis of the state of the art and frameworks of the models discussed in the 91 papers, (3) summary of the data characteristics, input variables, and accuracy of machine learning models, and (4) exploration of the potential avenues for future research in the use of machine learning for pipeline condition assessment. This review aims to serve as a practical reference for scholars engaged in related research. The review highlights the fact that the majority of the models employed in pipeline condition assessment are original, and the utilization of hybrid models remains limited. Transfer learning and reinforcement learning are identified as potential avenues for future research because they hold promise in facilitating the adaptive selection of model inputs and the transfer of models to similar projects. Furthermore, breaking down data barriers is deemed essential for advancing the use of machine learning in pipeline condition assessment.