Ensemble learning as approach for pipeline condition assessment

Abstract

The algorithms commonly used for damage condition monitoring present several drawbacks related to unbalanced data, optimal training requirements, low capability to manage feature diversity and low tolerance to errors. In this work, an approach based on ensemble learning is discussed as alternative to obtain more efficient diagnosis. The main advantage of ensemble learning is the use of several algorithms at the same time for a better proficiency. Thereby, combining simplest tree decision algorithms in bagging scheme, the accuracy of damage detection is improved. It takes advantage by combining prediction of preliminary algorithms based on regression models. The methodology is experimentally validated on a carbon steel pipe section, where mass adding conditions are studied as possible failures. Data from an active system based on piezoelectric sensors are stored and characterized through the T2 and Q statistical indexes. Then, they are the inputs to the ensemble learning. The proposed methodology allows determining the condition assessment and damage localizations in the structure. The results of the studied cases show the feasibility of ensemble learning for detecting occurrence of structural damages with successful results.