Pipeline leak detection method and control device therefor

Patent · Tue Jun 16 04:00:00 EDT 1981

OSTI ID:5934317

Bell, D A

For sealing a pipeline at selective locations in order to perform leak tests, a pipeline packer assembly capable of internal travel within the pipeline can be moved to and stopped at selected locations and the packer inflated against the interior pipe walls to prevent further movement of the unit, and to provide a seal so that the pipeline may be subjected to internal high pressures to detect leaks. According to the invention, a control device for such unit comprises a gamma ray detector and signal processor receiving the electrical analogue signal from the gamma ray detector. An energizing signal from the signal processor actuates a stepping switch which provides ''inflate'' and ''deflate'' energization of the packer, and is kept in ''off'' condition while the packer is inoperative as in transit within the pipeline. A radiation source on the surface or selectively inserted into a bore hole near the pipeline provides a stimulus for the gamma ray detector which controls the operation of the stepping switch. The insertion and subsequent withdrawal of the radiation source from the vicinity of the pipe adjacent the control unit, successively causes the successive stepping of the stepping switch to ''inflate'', ''deflate'' and ''off'' conditions. The assembly is moved through the pipeline at low pressure, and the pipeline subjected to high pressure behind the packer when it is inflated, thereby to permit leak detection at successive locations within the pipeline.

• Assignee: Interprovincial Steel And Pipe Corp Ltd (Canada)
• Patent Number(s): US 4272984
• OSTI ID: 5934317
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

42 ENGINEERING
420205* -- Engineering-- Transport & Storage Facilities-- (1980-)
ACTUATORS
CONTROL SYSTEMS
DETECTION
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT
GAMMA DETECTION
GAMMA SOURCES
GEIGER-MUELLER COUNTERS
LEAK DETECTORS
LEAK TESTING
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
PIPELINES
PRESSURE DEPENDENCE
RADIATION DETECTION
RADIATION DETECTORS
RADIATION SOURCES
SWITCHES
TESTING