Jun Abe, Takahiro Kasatani, Yuji Higuchi
Papers # 2016 Berlin
Osaka Gas has carried out the production, supply, and sale of gas since 1905 and has distributed gas to 7,200,000 customers. The piping used for distribution was originally steel and cast iron pipes, but we have been adopting the use of polyethylene piping for low pressure distribution since 1980, and have to date laid approximately 15,000km of pipe.
Regarding the need to continue using this polyethylene piping indefinitely without having to replace it, we are engaging in various initiatives for the purpose of improving fusion quality, in combination with strengthening our quality controls for polyethylene piping materials. For instance, we carry out specialized technical skills training based on the Osaka Gas system of qualifications authorization for the workers at our contracted construction companies, quality inspections of fusion-joined sections of laid polyethylene pipe, and also the development of new fusion techniques through our technology development division. Moreover, we perform yearly evaluations of our contractors based on such factors as the results of our quality inspections of fusionjoined sections, then increase or decrease the quantity of work assigned to each company according to the outcome. We are establishing as one system these initiatives to improve fusion quality and this mechanism we have formulated in connection with determining the work volume to be granted to our construction companies
In addition, we are maintaining a high standard of safety management and security by fortifying our controls for the prevention of breakage that may occur in the performance of other work after the time polyethylene pipe is laid.
This report introduces the various efforts we are undertaking toward the improvement of construction quality regarding the laying of our polyethylene pipe.
