Development of an innovative free-swimming device for detection of leaks in oil and gas pipelines

Samuel Ariaratnam, Muthu Chandrasekaran

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

11 Scopus citations

Abstract

Line leakage of oil and natural gas systems can result in significant financial and environmental consequences. Often, small leaks lead to ruptures in the pipeline that result in product escaping into the surrounding soil. Oil product can taint water supplies by migrating into aquifers, while natural gas leaks are susceptible to catastrophic explosions. A joint academic-industry research initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has lead to the development and refinement of a freeswimming device capable of detecting small leaks in oil product and natural gas pipelines. The SmartBall® swims through a pipeline being assessed and produces results at significantly reduced cost to the end user compared to current leak detection methods. GIS based above ground loggers that are GPS synchronized capture low frequency acoustic signatures and digitally log the passage of the SmartBall® through a pipeline. This paper presents the development, laboratory and field validation testing of the SmartBall® for both oil and natural gas applications with discussion of demonstrated case studies.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationConstruction Research Congress 2010
Subtitle of host publicationInnovation for Reshaping Construction Practice - Proceedings of the 2010 Construction Research Congress
Pages588-596
Number of pages9
DOIs
StatePublished - 2010
EventConstruction Research Congress 2010: Innovation for Reshaping Construction Practice - Banff, AB, Canada
Duration: May 8 2010May 10 2010

Publication series

NameConstruction Research Congress 2010: Innovation for Reshaping Construction Practice - Proceedings of the 2010 Construction Research Congress

Other

OtherConstruction Research Congress 2010: Innovation for Reshaping Construction Practice
Country/TerritoryCanada
CityBanff, AB
Period5/8/105/10/10

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
  • Building and Construction

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