Leak detection on petroleum pipelines
- Petroleum Measurement Analysis, Antioch, CA (United States)
Accident statitics clearly show that pipelines are the safest method for transporting hydrocarbon fluids compared to trucking, rail or marine transportation. Even so, leaks and spills do occasionally happen and can be (1) very costly in terms of product loss and clean up, and (2) hazardous to life, property and the environment. The pipeline industry recognizes its responsibility to be proactive in technological advancements which promote public safety, and many pipeline operators either already have or are planning to install real-time methods for determining when leak occur. The intent is to detect leaks as soon as possible to permit the operator to shut down a pipeline and minimize the amount of stock loss and potential hazard to the public. Some federal and state regulations require some form of leak detection on pipelines which transport hazardous fluids through populated and otherwise sensitive areas. There are three basic methods for monitoring pipeline systems for leaks: (1) EXS (external sensors) which use acoustical devices or hydrocarbon sensors which may be buried with the pipe or placed at critical above ground locations along the path of the pipeline; (2) VIVO (volume in/volume out) which relies on volumetric measurement and comparison of everything which enters a pipeline system with everything that leaves the system; and (3) PPA (Pressure Point Analysis) is a dynamic method for monitoring the energy balance on a pipeline as represented by pressure and velocity readings at various points in the pipeline system. These systems are discussed.
- OSTI ID:
- 146386
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-950553--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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