In this technical presentation, Pedro Santos, Head of Data Science, and Daniel Mercado, Senior Pipeline Engineer at NEO NEXT +ENERGY, shared how artificial intelligence is being applied to automate subsea pipeline freespan detection, reducing manual interpretation while providing engineers with more consistent and reliable inspection data.
Daniel began by explaining the engineering principles behind pipeline free spans and why they represent a significant integrity risk. As changing seabed conditions leave sections of pipeline unsupported, stress and vortex-induced vibration can lead to fatigue failure, making accurate identification and ongoing monitoring essential for safe operation. He also outlined the traditional inspection process, highlighting the challenges of analysing large volumes of bathymetry data and the engineering judgement required to assess whether intervention is necessary.
Building on this foundation, Pedro demonstrated how NEO NEXT +ENERGY developed a machine learning solution capable of processing millions of three-dimensional survey points to detect free spans automatically. By combining deep learning with physics-informed rules, the approach improves detection accuracy, reduces false positives and enables engineers to compare inspection results consistently across multiple survey campaigns.
The presentation also showed how AI can support better engineering decisions beyond simply identifying anomalies. By tracking how free spans evolve over time, engineers can distinguish between features that require remediation and those influenced by natural seabed movement, helping to avoid unnecessary offshore interventions while maintaining asset integrity and reducing operational costs.
Watch the full presentation to discover how NEO NEXT +ENERGY is combining data science, engineering expertise and AI to modernise subsea pipeline inspections and deliver more informed, efficient and cost-effective integrity management.
Speaker
Pedro Santos, Head of Data Science, NEO NEXT +ENERGY
Daniel Mercado, Senior Pipeline Engineer, NEO NEXT +ENERGY
