Pressure release

摘要

A new method that uses a pressure pulse to locate blockages inside pipelines could help oil extraction on the ocean floor.rnThe technology from researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) promises to speed up the oil production processes and reduce costs. Based on the 'water hammer' effect, the principle is the same as the bang one can hear in a washing machine or dishwasher when the flow of water to the machine is shut off quickly. The researchers create a similar 'bang' by closing a pressure valve on the pipeline flow-line. The valve is closed for a few seconds and then reopened. The resulting pressure pulse is recorded at two locations upstream of the valve with transducers. The information gathered is then fed into a data acquisition system and put through complex analytical methods. The measurements are used to create a map of the inside of the pipeline.rn'We're able to see where the blockage is and how much it is,' said Jon Steinar Gudmundsson, who developed the method. Operators are able to see on a computer screen where the next pressure vent is located. The information helps them choose the best possible method for clearing the pipe. Gudmundsson said the ocean floor is a difficult environment on which to maintain and repair pipelines. There are few ways to do it that aren't costly or time consuming.