Approximately 160 of the world’s top pipeline researchers and engineers are set to gather in Brisbane this week to share their latest findings on the design, construction, operation and integrity of high-pressure petroleum transmission pipelines.

The important international forum, held by the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA), is expected to showcase some of the key technological developments in the global pipeline industry.

APGA Chief Executive Officer, Steve Davies said Australia’s pipeline industry has a long history of investment in research that helps make the country’s high-pressure gas transmission pipelines safer and more efficient.

“Our unique conditions, with long distances to cover and a relatively small population, have meant we’ve had to develop our own Standard and conduct our own research because the kind of pipelines we build aren’t being built elsewhere.”

The 22nd Joint Technical Meeting on Pipeline Research will be held in Brisbane from 29 April to 3 May 2019. The event brings together the members and associates of the Pipeline Research Council International, the European Pipeline Research Group and the APGA-RSC to discuss key matters relevant to the international pipeline industry.

A total of 36 technical papers will be presented over the four days, and participants will also have the opportunity to network and participate in panel discussions and project workshops.

Mr Davies said Australian participants, including many from the Energy Pipelines Cooperative Research Centre, will be presenting 12 of the 36 papers.

“This is a concrete reminder of how we continue to punch above our weight in innovation and technological development,” he said.