Acoustic leak detector proves AUV compatibility in sea trials

摘要

Pipeline leaks are typically triggered by the transition of the transported fluid from the internal pressure to the lower external pressure. The resultant turbulence and fluid mass expansion generates acoustic (ultrasound) signals that the acoustic leak detector (ALD) system extracts from the ambient noise, even when these signals are weak. Co.LMar says the system can locate leaks on an offshore installation down to 0.1 liter/min. The main components of the technology are an underwater acoustic sensor that acquires data along the pipeline, a transmission line relaying the data to the surface vessel, a hardware receiver, and PC-based software that evaluates the signal in real time along with its development along the pipeline section tracked. ROV installation, towflsh, and diver have been the most common deployment alternatives offered. Now Co.LMar has introduced a new inspection technique.