The Technology Development Center (TDC) from PRCI is a state-of-the-art facility located in Houston, Texas, dedicated to advancing pipeline safety, integrity, and innovation.
The TDC provides a controlled environment for pipeline operators, technology developers, and service providers to validate current and emerging technologies. Its infrastructure includes extensive pull testing and flow loop capabilities, allowing for rigorous evaluation of in-line inspection (ILI) tools, non-destructive evaluation (NDE) methods, and other pipeline integrity solutions. The TDC is equipped to handle a wide range of pipe diameters and testing scenarios, supporting both routine and complex research projects.
A unique feature of the TDC is the world’s largest pipe sample library. This inventory includes over 1,600 samples featuring both natural and manufactured defects such as corrosion, stress corrosion cracking (SCC), dents, weld anomalies, and more. These samples are used for hands-on training, research, and technology demonstrations, enabling industry professionals to test and refine their tools and techniques in realistic conditions. The facility also offers custom flaw creation and sample preparation, ensuring that testing protocols can be tailored to specific project needs.
Beyond its technical capabilities, the TDC is the perfect location for industry events, including:
- Hosting open houses and technical workshops
- Showcasing live demos of new technologies
- Training pipeline professionals with in-person training courses through PRCI Academy.
Work with The Technology
Development Center
New? Schedule a tour to learn more about the TDC.
Returning? If you’re looking into the next step for working with the TDC, you can book a room, schedule testing or technology demonstrations, or request a sample for testing.
You don’t have to be a PRCI member to visit the TDC, but current PRCI members receive priority scheduling, discounted rates on reservations and bookings, and privileged access to new offerings. Learn more about becoming a member with PRCI.
Membership Not Required
The center is open to all companies—PRCI membership is not required—making it an accessible resource for anyone seeking to improve pipeline integrity and safety. With expert guidance from its staff and a commitment to supporting innovation, the TDC plays a vital role in shaping the future of pipeline research and development.
Capabilities
PIPE INVENTORY & WAREHOUSE
Access to over 1,600 pipe samples & coupons with various defect types & dimensions.
Over 20,000 square feet of indoor warehouse space to conduct testing, NDE evaluations & storage.
Third party pipe surface preparation, welding, cutting & moving services available upon request.
Pull Test Facility
Customizable pipe strings from 6” to 42” containing hundreds of fully characterized real & manufactured defects.
Main winch capable of running consistent velocities from 1 mph to 11 mph while pulling over 40,000 lbs.
16” & 24” strings can be equipped to run liquid tools.
Liquid Test Loop Facility
Customizable 1,000 feet long pipeline configurations range from easily piggable to “difficult to inspect.”
The ability for continuous test cycles at a pressure of ANSI Class 150 (285 psi).
6” to 12” nominal pipe utilizes water as the liquid medium.
Meeting Rooms
- Large conference room accommodates up to 127 people & small conference room accommodates up to 55 people.
- Two large screens in each room for presentations.
- Web conferencing systems with built-in ceiling speakers & microphones.
- Quick access to pipe samples in the warehouse.
