The key to leak detection

Pipeline integrity is a key concern for oil and gas operators wanting to ensure that pipelines are being operated in a safe and reliable way. Keeping pipelines free from defects and damage, so they can continue to transport their contents, without incident, is critical to preventing harmful substances from being released into the environment, and for protecting the population against potential incidents. Even the smallest oil and gas leaks can cause major environmental damage and the costs for clean-up can easily run into millions.

For example, the incident in Refugio Bay, off the west coast of the US, when, on 19 May 2015, 541 000 litres of crude oil spilled onto one of the most biologically diverse coastlines in the world. The cause of the leak was identified as being extensive corrosion, but unfortunately, it remained undetected until it was too late. Local pipeline workers did not know about the leak until they were notified by the state parks staff that there was oil in the water. Plains All American Pipeline L.P. and Plains Pipeline L.P. agreed to modify operations to prevent further spills, and to pay US$24 million in penalties, plus US$22.3 million in natural resource damages, US$10 million for natural resource damage assessment costs and US$4.26 million for Coast Guard clean-up costs. The overall cost of the clean-up, including expected legal claims and potential settlements, was approximately US$257 million.

So, what can operators do to prevent such incidents, and what are the best ways to ensure pipeline integrity and faster leak detection? There are a number of approaches to take that include considering the latest technologies, following the latest oil and gas pipeline standards and guidance, and establishing an integrity management (IM) plan …

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