Evaluation of Distributed Acoustic Sensing Leak Detection Technology for Offshore Pipelines

摘要

Many modern-day offshore hydrocarbon pipelines require continuous monitoring to ensure that no potential leaks go undetected. There are a number of technologies that are currently marketed for the detection of leaks from pipelines. One of these technologies is fiber-optic-based distributed acoustic sensing (DAS). This technology is characterized by its potential to quickly detect and locate the acoustic signal generated by a pipeline leak. However, there is insufficient information available on the effectiveness of available DAS technology. A joint-industry program (JIP) was initiated by ExxonMobil, Shell, BP, and Chevron to evaluate the applicability of DAS systems for detecting leaks under conditions that simulate a typical subsea environment. The objective of this work was to determine operating envelopes for the intended environments through large-scale laboratory testing of DAS systems. The JIP testing was led by Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), an independent applied research organization. The data from this project are expected to provide pipeline operators with a better understanding of the physics of subsea leaks and the current state-of-the-art capabilities of the DAS technology. The results are also expected to provide information that could be utilized to further improve the technology.