Partnership to Advance Pipeline Leak Detection Methods

Overview

Main Objective

The study team will partner with leak detection and quantification (LDAQ) solution developers to catalyze development of advanced leak detection for pipelines by (a) supporting enhanced solution testing in a pseudo-realistic environment, (b) documenting deployment protocols, and (c) providing an annual showcase event to demonstrate solutions to operators, regulators and other stakeholders.

Public Abstract

Project Objectives: The project will enable developers of innovative leak detection solutions for gas pipelines to develop their solutions by testing at the Methane Emissions Technology Evaluation Center at Colorado State University – commitment letters included from eight (8) developers who will collectively invest $900,000 to test for 52 weeks over the life of the project. The project's partners will focus on survey and stationary methods that can be widely deployed to existing pipelines, meeting PHMSA's request to "develop innovative or enhanced leak locating technologies to pin-point/detect leaks in pipelines and facilities with limited excavation for buried pipelines." Research partner Southern Methodist University (SMU) will assist testing, review literature, and integrate testing results. Robust tech transfer will be accelerated by an annual in-person show-case event where solution developers will present results and demonstrate solutions to operators, regulators and other stakeholders. The study team will also work with developers to document their deployment protocols and assess the need for training on the use of these methods.

Anticipated Results: Substantial acceleration of testing for advanced leak detection solutions, coupled with robust dissemination of results from testing, including guidance on how / when / where to deploy methods in the field.

Potential Impact on Safety: Results will enable wide-spread use of advanced methods by improving understanding of how to deploy these methods effectively. Accelerating these methods reduces the cost of robust surveillance of pipelines in all sectors, but particularly in sectors with hard-to-access rights-of-way, including gathering and transmission pipeline systems. Additionally, regulated distribution utilities will be able to use these results to justify deployment of advanced methods that can increase survey coverage and/or reduce survey costs.

Relevant Files & Links