Through the development of industrialization, it becomes an essential need for the consistent and reliable path for the supply of gasoline and many other fluids in the industrial sector, pipelines.
Pipeline system now transports a variety of material, including oil, refined product, natural gas, condensate, process gas and water. The construction of the longer pipeline with a larger diameter increased the need for leakage detection.
Why leakage detection?
- Protection for people and environment
- Repair cost
- Break down
- Lost valve of liquid or gas that is been released
Types of leak detection systems:
There are two major types of leak detection system, Continous and Non-continuous.
Non-Continuous:
The non-continuous system is used in need, they are often used with the continuous system. There are different such techniques:
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Inspection by Helicopter: Pipeline is inspected on a helicopter. It is done by using lasers, infrared cameras, leak snifers.
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Smart pigging: A pig (device can fit inside the pipe) is inserted inside the pipeline and its moves through the pipeline receiving data.
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Tracking dog: Specially trained dogs that recognise the smell of process fluid are used for leakage detection.
Continuous:
Continuous systems are mostly permanent and installed along the pipeline. There are two types of systems: Internal and external
External system includes:
- Fiber optic cable
- Acoustic system
- Sensor hoses
- Video monitoring
Internal systems include:
- Pressure point analysis
- Mass balance method
- Statical system