Virtual Technology Development Center

The Virtual Technology Development Center (VTDC) is a digital platform used by PRCI (Pipeline Research Council International) to support pipeline research, data collaboration, and technology development. It serves as a secure, centralized environment where PRCI members can access, share, and analyze critical research data related to pipeline integrity, safety, and performance.

By integrating VTDC into its research ecosystem, PRCI is enhancing data accessibility, collaboration, and technology adoption within the pipeline industry. The platform fosters industry-wide collaboration by consolidating critical research data into a centralized hub, making it easier to analyze, compare, and apply insights that were previously fragmented across different sources. This plays a crucial role in advancing pipeline safety, efficiency, and cost-effective solutions, while continuously expanding its data resources into 2025 and beyond.

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Key Functions of VTDC

  • Centralized Data Access & Integration:

    • The VTDC fosters collaboration within the pipeline industry by consolidating critical research data into a centralized platform, making it easier to analyze, compare, and apply insights that were previously fragmented across different sources.

    • Provides a repository of technical data, research findings, and reports, ensuring members can access historical and current research efficiently.

  • Collaboration & Research Development:

    • Supports cross-industry collaboration between PRCI members, pipeline operators, and researchers.

    • Facilitates joint research projects and technology testing, driving innovation in pipeline safety and performance.

  • Security & Compliance:

    • Ensures secure access to proprietary data through authentication and permission-based controls.

  • Support for PRCI Programs & Committees:

    • Enhances data-driven decision-making, ensuring that research investments align with industry needs.

In 2024, the VTDC continued to expand with the addition of test data and deploying previous test results to new databases:

  • • Remediation Options for Negative Installation Effects (MEAS-6-5E): Test data from this study has been added to the test version of the Ultrasonic Meter Test Results Database. It is currently under review by the project team and will be incorporated into this database once it is finalized.

  • • OIML Test Data: OIML test data has been received from one manufacturer and incorporated into the test version of the Ultrasonic Meter Test Results Database. It will be deployed to the production database in Q1 2025.

  • • Pipeline Transient Flow Data: A new database was created and data from the L200010 Transient Flow of Gas was added to the VTCD. Access to this database is available for purchase.

  • • Shock Tube Measurements of Decompression Wave Speed in CO2 with Impurities (ALT-1-2): Data from this 2013 report has been added to the VTDC CO2 Shock Tube Database. Access to this database is expected to be available for sale in Q1 2025.