TPT July 2018

T E CHNOLOG Y

Asset management begins with leak detection IT takes more than luck and traditional acoustic correlation methods to locate a suspected leak on large critical mains. Not all leaks are obvious, and some leaks can seep for years without visibly surfacing, putting utilities at risk of catastrophic failure. utilities to obtain the general condition of their mains, since a leak not only represents water loss, but can also indicate the potential for pipeline failure. Inline leak detection technologies use non-destructive methods in which acoustic sensors are inserted into a pressurised pipeline. The ‘hissing’ sound or vibration resulting from a leak in a pipe transmits an acoustic signal collected by the sensor when passing the leak site. The amplitude and frequency of the sound depends on the pipe material and internal pressure, and is easy to distinguish from other pipeline sounds. A proactive leak detection strategy plays an important role in any asset management programme, allowing

Pure Technologies has developed two inline leak detection platforms for large-diameter pipelines of all materials: SmartBall ® (a free-swimming tool) and Sahara ® (with a tethered sensor). Both tools are equipped with an acoustic sensor that can locate very small leaks (as small as 0.1 l/min) with high location accuracy. The SmartBall platform identifies leaks and gas pockets in large-diameter pipelines while the line remains in service, minimising disruption. The free- swimming ball contains leak detection circuitry and is released untethered into the water flow, often through an air valve or hydrant (any 100mm opening). The SmartBall follows the water flow and is tracked by surface-mounted sensors as it rolls through the pipe, making a continuous recording of the acoustic activity in the pipeline. At a downstream location, the ball rolls into the retrieval device and is extracted from the pipe. The data is then evaluated to report the presence of leaks and gas pockets. Since the SmartBall is propelled by the water flow, it can be used to survey the subject main for long distances (with a battery life of up to 20 hours) in one deployment. As a result, modifications to the main are significantly reduced. The Sahara tethered inspection platform identifies leaks and gas pockets by providing acoustic data on the presence of leaks for distances up to 1,800m (6,000 feet). The tool also has the ability to map pipeline alignment, and is equipped with CCTV. It can be inserted into an active pipeline through almost any tap 2" or greater. As the Sahara tool enters the pipe, the flow velocity of the water inflates a small parachute that pulls the tool through the pipe, with the probe lighting the way, highlighting any visual defects in the pipeline. If the Sahara tool encounters any acoustic events – such as a leak – the operator can stop the tool at the exact point of the leak.

Pure Technologies – Canada Email: info@puretechltd.com Website: www.puretechltd.com

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JULY 2018