FOSA Applauds PHMSA Nominee’s Focus on Technology

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 28, 2017 
Fiber Optic Sensing Association
Contact:  Mark Uncapher (202) 423-5344

FOSA Applauds PHMSA Nominee’s Focus on Technology

WASHINGTON DC
September 28, 2017

The Fiber Optic Sensing Association (FOSA) today applauded PHMSA Administrator nominee Howard Elliott’s focus on technology solutions to address safety issues, including in the pipeline and rail sectors.

As part of Elliott’s statement to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, he emphasized the value of innovative technology for safety and security.

"We are delighted to hear that Mr. Elliott’s first focus will be the application of advanced technologies to enhance safety on pipelines,” said Geoffroy Lacoin of Omnisens, a member of FOSA’s Board of Directors. “Fiber optic sensing is one of the proven innovative technologies that offer a huge step forward in safety. U.S. pipeline operators have started to adopt fiber optic sensing because of its strong track record globally in preventing and avoiding incidents and identifying leaks with great precision.”

FOSA board member Vivek Caroli of Frauscher Sensor Technology USA, Inc. echoed the sentiment as to rail safety.

"Fiber optic sensing can identify dangerous conditions like broken rails and wheel flats, that are often the reasons for expensive and dangerous derailments." Caroli said. "Moreover, fiber optic sensing informs operators if persons are present trackside, allowing them to investigate any unauthorized or unlawful activity. Using this technology, we can help identify any asset related defects before they become catastrophes."

Fiber optic sensing measures changes in the “backscattering” of light occurring in an optical fiber when the fiber encounters vibration, strain or temperature change. The fiber serves as sensor over its entire length, delivering real time information on physical surroundings and security. Furthermore, the data pinpoints the precise location of events and conditions occurring at or near the sensor cable.

“We applaud Mr. Elliott’s thoughtfulness and stand ready to serve as a resource to him and his colleagues at PHMSA,” Lacoin said. 

About the Fiber Optic Sensing Association: The Fiber Optic Sensing Association is dedicated to accelerating the deployment and use of advanced optical fiber sensing technologies for monitoring pipelines, power lines, railways, borders, roads, and other critical infrastructure and facilities. FOSA members include Adelos, AFL, AP Sensing, Asymmetric Technologies, Corning, Ditch Witch, Dura-Line Corporation, Fotech Solutions, Frauscher Sensor Technology USA Inc., Integrated Roadways, LIOS Technology, OFS, Omnisens, OptaSense, OZ Optics and Prysmian. For more information about FOSA, its mission, members and programs, please visit us here.