DIGITAL PIPELINE INTEGRITY MONITORING SYSTEM
Sensornet’s Digital Pipeline Integrity Monitoring Solution consists of a suite of products and services that provide the client with the peace of mind that their pipeline is operating efficiently, safely and securely. This solution can be deployed and configured to detect and report the following:
- Third Party Interference
- Pipe Stress
- Ground Shift
- Leak Detection
- Pipe Temperature
- Slug Detection
- Condition Monitoring
- Pig Monitoring
- Asset Protection
- Riser Monitoring
CLOSE THE MONITORING GAP
With conventional technology there is a gap between what you think is occurring and what is actually happening. This information gap can delay detection of any natural or man-made event that could affect the operation of your process. Such delays are critical and can lead to potentially expensive and hazardous situations. Sensornet’s solution overcomes the limitations of many technologies available today to close the monitoring gap and improve system availability, integrity and safety.
MONITORING GAP WITH EXISTING TECHNOLOGY
There are a number of standalone systems available today that can provide threat, strain and leak detection solutions. These do not provide the integration, accuracy and varied monitoring capabilities of the Sensornet system. Conventional systems rely upon point sensing technologies to estimate locations of events. Positioning these in the correct and most relevant locations can be a challenge. These can also be affected by single large and often harmless events that can blind the systems to specific activities that can affect the process.
SENSORNET DIGITAL PIPELINE INTEGRITY MONITORING
Sensornet’s Digital Solution provides complete coverage of the pipeline or process. Our suite of fully Distributed Sensing products include Temperature (DTS), Strain (DSS) and Acoustic (DAS). These can be deployed in standalone or in any combination to provide the level of monitoring required by the client. Each system utilizes fibre optic monitoring technology and can be deployed using the existing telecommunications or Control and Instrumentation network. It is the operator’s decision to provide total pipeline coverage or to concentrate on specific high risk regions. With the sensing fibre in place it is possible to relocate and redeploy equipment as sections of pipeline move up the risk register.
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Third Party Interference (TPI)
Locate potentially hazardous movement within the pipeline corridor. Human movement can be detected within 10 metres of the sensing cable and mechanical digging up to 500 metres. Intrusion is detected and alarmed before contact with the pipe is made. Location is accurate to 10 metres longitudinal length. Individual events are identified and categorized according to the alert levels and reported to the security personnel or systems. Complete pipeline corridors can be monitored remotely at the Central Control Centre with further direct communication with mobile security or inspection personnel.
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Pipe Stress
Accurately locates pipe strain caused by buckling, hammer, structural fault, anchor drag or ground shift. A resolution of 20 microstrain can be detected at 1 metre intervals. This system can be permanently deployed for real-time monitoring or can be provided periodically as part of a regular maintenance program. Full service and reporting can be provided by Sensornet or by the client’s trained personnel.
- Leak Detection – On Shore Pipelines
Leak detection can be accurately detected to the nearest 1 metre via temperature changes in the surrounding environment. Temperature resolution of 0.01°C ensures small liquid leaks can be detected and quantified. Gas leaks will be indicated by the Joules Thompson effect. Levels of change are dependant upon product properties and soil conditions. Sensornet are able to model the effects of leaks and determine specific detection times and levels upon application.
- Leak Detection – Off Shore Pipelines
Leak location can be detected to the nearest 10 metres by changes in the acoustic pitch of the surrounding water. Liquid and gas leaks can be detected and aurally verified in real time or via audio playback. This system can be deployed globally with a single Central Control Room monitoring all pipelines. Accurate event location can reduce ROV and diver costs and ensure remedial action is taken immediately.
- Ground Shift
Pipelines are not always installed within the most stable ground conditions. The Distributed Strain Sensing system accurately locates any ground movement caused by landslide, erosion, seismic or structural activity with a resolution of 20 microstrain at 1 metre intervals. Monitoring can be deployed on a permanent basis or as part of a regular maintenance program by fully trained client personnel or the Sensornet maintenance team.
- Pipe Temperature
Heat Trace (SECT), Direct Electric Heating (DEH) or Water Jacket heated lines can be monitored to ensure the system is operating safely and efficiently within the product’s specified parameters. Temperature monitoring allows for the maintenance windows to be minimized and can improve productivity by reducing hydrate build up.
- Slug Detection
Acoustic signature of slug can be detected within the Tie Back. The progress of the slug can be traced to ensure the correct measures are taken on the platform to reduce velocity and catch the slug. This increases safety and can help to maximize platform productivity.
- Condition Monitoring
The inclusion of fibre optic accelerometers within the network can be used to remotely monitor pumps and generators etc. As machinery wears the acoustic pitch changes. This monitoring can form part of a maintenance program to ensure maximum availability. The system can also be used as acoustic confirmation that the expected activity has begun, e.g. generator has come online to support low battery load.
- Pig Monitoring
Follow the progress of the Pig throughout the pipe network by tracking the acoustic signature. Changes in speed can signify hydrate build up. Location of Pig can be pinpointed should retrieval be required. This system can be installed permanently or as part of a regular maintenance package by Sensornet.
- Asset Protection
Extend the fibre optic network around remote facilities to detect any unwanted intrusion and protect facilities such as Block Valve and Compressor Stations etc. Individual components such as satellite transmitters and solar panels can also be protected remotely. The system can be integrated with existing security systems to activate cameras and personnel. This can be monitored at a Central Control Centre that monitors a number of diverse locations.
- Riser Monitoring
Prolong the life expectancy of the Riser by monitoring the number, location and severity of flexes during operation. The Distributed Strain Sensor will monitor the entire length of the riser and can provide real-time and historical data to the client in order to make informed decisions on the operational capacity of the system.
Download Sensornet's Pipeline Integrity Monitoring System Application Guide
