Vibroacoustic Technology: Revolutionizing Pipeline Integrity Monitoring for Enhanced Performance

The aim of this work is to present a versatile and robust vibroacoustic pipeline integrity monitoring technology, easily retrofittable to existing assets, capable of real-time detection and localization of leaks and Third-Party Interference (TPI). Additionally, the technology can offer features such as PIG tracking, assessment of valve-sealing quality, pressure tests, and more. Top-class vibroacoustic sensor blocks are strategically positioned several kilometers apart along the pipeline. They effectively capture vibroacoustic waves generated by leaks and TPI events as they propagate through the pipeline and the surrounding fluid, taking advantage of the pipeline’s efficient waveguide properties. The acquired data is then transmitted to dedicated processing servers, triggering alarms as necessary. For leak detection, the system relies on an Advanced-Negative Pressure Wave, while the localization of both leaks and TPI events employs the TDOA method (Time Difference of Arrival). Sophisticated and patented algorithms are implemented to address noise removal, detection, and localization, resulting in a substantial reduction in the false alarm rate. The Vibroacoustic Technology outlined in this work is presently deployed and operational on numerous pipelines globally, actively surveilling thousands of pipeline kilometers. The system has demonstrated its effectiveness in rapidly detecting and precisely localizing both spillage and impact events. Moreover, the system can identify and localize any internal events interacting with the pipeline, opening possibilities for various applications to monitor the asset. The sensor blocks are installed in hydraulic derivations along the pipeline tens of kilometers apart. These blocks transmit real-time data to a processing server, requiring less than 20 kbit/s and consuming less than 20 W of power. After a brief installation campaign, the detection system is calibrated, and the versatility of Vibroacoustic Technology is evident in its integration for diverse integrity management requirements. This work displays real use cases where the technology has excelled, detecting leaks, excavations, PIG tracking (in real time or after the PIG is lost inside the pipe), assessing inline valve sealing quality, identifying corrosion micro-vents, and accurately localizing existing leaks during pressure tests. The demonstrated results emphasize the efficacy and adaptability of Vibroacoustic Technology across several applications. The novelty feature of this pipeline management and integrity tool lies in its unparalleled flexibility in deployment options. This achievement allows the system to be installed across a diverse range of challenging scenarios, in liquid or gas pipelines, ensuring outstanding performance in each instance.