High-Tech Ways To Ensure Pipeline Integrity

Pipelines are used to carry a variety of materials from one place to another. Many of these materials, like natural gas or crude oil, could be dangerous if not properly contained. Pipeline integrity should play an essential role in every materials transportation company's safety strategy.

Implementing some high-tech monitoring techniques can help you better care for your company's pipelines in the future.

Segment Sensors

The installation of segment sensors allows you to detect potential problems with the integrity of your pipeline easily. Each section of pipeline is monitored by an individual sensor that is programmed with acceptable parameters for flow rate, pressure, and temperature.

When the sensors record measurements that fall outside of acceptable parameters, an alarm is sounded. Segment sensors provide you with the ability to immediately identify changes in performance that might indicate problems with pipeline integrity.

Fiber Optic Cameras

Having the ability to look inside a pipeline without disrupting flow rates can be important when it comes to maintaining the integrity of the pipeline as a whole. Fiber optic cameras can be fed into a pipeline's interior where high-resolution images of the interior walls can be recorded.

These specialized cameras give you the ability to check your pipeline for signs of potential failure. Corrosion, leaks, and other forms of damage can be visually identified, marked, and scheduled for repair in order to keep your pipeline working properly.

Acoustic Technology

Detecting leaks are essential when maintaining the integrity of your company's pipeline. Even small leaks can pose a serious contamination threat that could result in toxic spills and the accrual of environmental fines. Acoustic technology can be utilized to help you identify leaks within your pipeline.

Acoustic sensors are placed inside an active pipeline and travel the length of the pipeline along with the materials being transported. The sensors emit a signal that reverberates off the interior walls of the pipeline and returns to the sensor for recording.

Changes in amplitude or frequency can indicate areas where your pipeline is weak and susceptible to leaks. Acoustic sensors can also be used to help you identify dangerous gas pockets or material buildups that could compromise the integrity of your pipeline.

Being able to maintain your pipelines properly will help ensure the success of your company. Turn to high-tech devices that will help you monitor the integrity of your pipeline to guard against leaks or pipeline failure in the future. Contact a company like SolutionCorp for more information and assistance.