Introduction
This paper will provide you with a fundamental understanding of the operating principles of currently available pipeline leak detection technologies. To start with we’ll have a look at the topics to be covered:
• Historical development of pipelines
• Why they are monitored for leaks
• The requirements and regulations placed on leak
detection systems
• Various causes of leaks
• Different leak detection methods
It will also be shown how pipelines are monitored utilizing leak detection systems which are operated:
• non-continuously
• continuously with external measurements
• continuously with internal measurements
The paper will also familiarize the reader with how systems localize leaks using various methods. The additional functionality that can be realized from a leak detection system will also be explored. In closing, the reader will gain a better understanding of the unique challenges that each methodology presents.