Energy Connections Canada (ECC) is pleased to introduce this Guidance for Surface Loading Assessment, which updates the work produced by the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association (CEPA) in 2009 and will be referenced in the upcoming revision of CSA Z662.
The 2025 edition of the guideline captures published studies completed by the Pipeline Research Council International to validate the original method developed for CEPA. Except for a few cases, the field results from those studies indicated that the original model generally led to conservative assessments for straight pipe without imperfections. Since the validation projects, there have been additional published works by the industry aimed at improving various aspects of surface loading assessment, including enhanced accuracy of assessments and a better understanding of induced stress distribution acting on buried piping.
This updated guideline captures enhancements made to date, as well as proposed improvements to the original model that can further increase accuracy, although some validation may be warranted. A knowledge gap still exists for the surface loading assessment of pipe containing known imperfections, so additional studies or field validation initiatives may be necessary to enhance understanding and guide the assessment of such cases.
This update was supported by the following operating companies within ECC:
- FortisBC Energy Inc.
- Husky Midstream
- Pembina Pipeline Corporation
- Plains Midstream Canada ULC
- TC Energy Corporation
- Trans Mountain Corporation
ECC also appreciates the individuals within member companies for their review and feedback on this 2025 edition, which was revised by RSI Pipeline Solutions, LLC and Dynamic Risk Assessment Systems, Inc.
