The BEAR team has worked on the Alaska Pipeline (see images on left) and many others, including gas pipelines in urban centers, refineries and chemical plants as well as steam pipes in commercial buildings and under city streets such as in New York City.

BEAR's laboratory in Berkeley, California is always ready for further analysis. Our lab is fully equiped to test for material properties, stresses and strains using specialized equipment and scientific methods. (see images below)

Gas Pipeline Explosion

In one recent case, an underground gas pipeline was struck by a farmer using a "ripper." The resulting explosion lead to widespread damage and injuries. The BEAR team was asked to assist in the assessment and analysis. The damaged pipe wall is shown on the left.

Steam Pipe Explosion

In another case, a steam heating pipe exploded under a busy intersection in Manhatten. The BEAR team was asked to assess the maintenance procedures and make recommendations to avoid future incidents. The photo on the left shows the exposed underground pipes.

Pipefailure in the Mohave Desert

Dr. Stevick conducted primary research on the steam pipe failure at the Mohave Southern California Power Plant. The rupture destroyed the power plant and resulted in five fatalities. The pipe ruptured along a weld seam due to the mismatch of high temperature properties between the weld and basemetal.

Dr. Stevick's analysis resulted in a change in the piping code for high temperature service. His contribution to this and other codes has been substantial and continues to improve industry practices.