Capability
Pipers® are equipped with an acoustic leak detection sensor that continuously captures the sound of the flow within a pipeline. This acoustic measurement forms a baseline from which to identify anomalies. When a pipeline is leaking, the jet of liquid passing through the crack or hole generates a characteristic hissing or rushing sound that enables Pipers to identify and isolate the problem. When there is no change or only gradual change over the length of the survey, operators can rest assured that no leaks have been detected.
Case Example
Survey length: 22 kms
Pipe diameter: 450 mm
Pipe composition: ductile iron
Resource carried: water
Location: South America
INGU conducted two separate leak detection surveys totaling 22 kilometers of pipe. The data collected identified several leaks in both lines. Our client followed up with verification digs and found leaks in three different locations isolated by the Pipers inspection. The client was able to repair one leak immediately, while the second leaked required a shutdown of the line prior to repair. The third leak was located in an above ground pipe at a river crossing. Repair of this line could only be undertaken once the rainy season was over due to high level of the river.
