Understanding pipeline failures using discriminant analysis: the North Sea application

Abstract This paper describes a novel approach for modelling offshore pipeline failures. Using data for pipelines in the North Sea, a methodology has been developed for explaining the effects of several factors on the reliability of pipeline systems. Discriminant analysis forms the basis of this methodology, which can accommodate the manifold variables affecting such failures and predict the probability of any pipeline failing. In this respect, the proposed methodology is superior to the conventional approach, which is based on average failure rates.