SRP: Leak DETEctioN
This Strategic Research Priority closes the primary gaps in standardizing the way that technologies and methods for leak detection are validated and qualified for energy pipelines (gathering, transmission, and distribution), and their associated facilities.
outcomes & value to industry
• Identifying, developing, and confirming effective leak detection monitoring technology options for the industry.
• Significantly reducing liquid and gas leak impacts and improve confidence in pipeline safety.
• Impacting industry recommended practices and standards.
industry improvement
LIQUID HYDROCARBON SYSTEMS
Improved detection technology.
Comprehensive leak detection strategy for gas and liquids operators (internal/external).
External detection and quantification guidance.
NATURAL GAS PIPELINE
Accelerated event identification through remote sensing.
Application of continuous pipeline monitoring for natural gas transmission operations.
Validation of technology capabilities and limitations.
GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS IDENTIFICATION & QUANTIFICATION FOR NATURAL GAS PIPELINES
Industry guidance for continuous monitoring of facilities.
Clarify capabilities and limitations of large area remote monitoring.
Identify advanced leak detection technologies capable of accurate quantification of leak rates and leak locations.
Improving characterization of release and emissions intermittency for detection and quantification.
• Evaluate the effectiveness and limitations through 3rd-party field trials of a cable-deployed polymer absorption sensor (PAS) in rapidly detecting small pipeline hydrocarbon leaks, whether installed on or placed near new or existing pipelines.
• Advance cable-based technology by providing a gap analysis of retrofitting existing pipelines with these types of sensors and testing the performance of locating the lateral position of pipeline and depth of cover of the pipeline for a full implementation and adoption.
• Evaluate the effectiveness and limitations of methane leak detection and quantification technologies and approaches and provide along with the gap analysis, a technology assessment tool operators to use.
CURRENT RESULTS
Leadership
We have stood up a Strategic Research Program for Leak Detection in industry that aligns within many of the objectives from API, LEPA, AGA, INGAA, PHMSA, and EPA. The LD SRP Reports reflect well-rounded, comprehensive peer-reviews of leak detection technologies and approaches. The SRP is “Buying Down Risk” by identifying leaks faster and facilitating the quicker adoption of technology which leads to less hydrocarbon in the environment, property, and people, ultimately reducing risks and better safety.
