b'16 Partner News Summer 2020EnterpriseThere are two main technologies available for leak detection systems, which are internally and externally based. Internal systems use field sensor outputs to monitor internal pipe parameters such as pressure, temperature, viscosity, density, flow rate and more. These then use computational methods to analyse a potential release. External systems use the non-algorithmic principle of physical detection of a leak. These could be a combination of acoustic sensors, fiber optics, infrared cameras, and vapor sensors.Both have their advantages and disadvantages. External systems, for example, can detect small leaks but retrofitting technology such as cameras or vapor tubes can be difficult or costly. External systems are often used for routine surveys versus continuous monitoring. What is pipelineInternal systems are easier to retrofit and can use existing data provided by SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) systems. Initially using internal systems was challenging, as leak leak detection? location accuracy and managing slack and transient flow were limited. Significant improvements have been made in this area and internal computational methods of leak detection are now highly accurate. Adding fast scanning to improved software, There are millions of pipelines in the worldcombined with expert engineer analysis has distributing oil, gas, chemicals, water and otherenabled leak location error down to tens of meters. Internal systems now have much fluids across vast distances. Pipelines offer a safemore flexibility and accuracy than ever. alternative to thousands of truck and rail movementsWhile physical processes need to be used to check pipeline integrity, for example, often in challenging geographic locations.pigging where intelligent pigs perform inspection operations, these come at huge costs and occasionally can block a pipeline. A range of simulation and tracking tools can Pipelines have their vulnerabilities,can deliver better results overall. Leakprovide additional monitoring for operators.whether it be natural such as landslidesdetection systems are not preventative or man-made by accidental damage,but can mitigate the impact of a leak,The pipeline theftmaintaining integrity is key and applyingalerting operators and ensuring theAs well as deliberate damage such as leak detection is fundamental in terms ofrapid shut down of a pipeline.sabotage, there is one significant risk that protecting the environment and people.occurs globallyand not just in developing The alternative can be vast environmentalcountries where poverty is high. Pipeline Regulations and legislation have often beendamage and reparation costs. Whiletheft is one of the biggest risks to people, the prompt for many pipeline operatorsleak detection systems are not a cure,the environment and property, with thieves to apply a leak detection system tothey provide operators and pipelinetaking extraordinary risks to steal fuel. their networks. However, leak detectionowners with further intelligence to isnt just a fix and forget action.make the right decision. The cost ofAt the highest level, organised gangs shutting down a pipeline can run intosteal for profit but also to maintain It requires skilled operators and suppliershundreds of thousands of pounds, sotheir illegal activities. In Latin America, who understand not only the nature ofoperators must have all the informationfuel is stolen to fuel trucks, boats their pipelines but how the technologyto hand and avoid costly false alarms.and planes for drug trafficking.'