Selecting the right leak detection methods to cover legal and operational requirements

The Editorial Board of the Pipeline Technology Journal (ptj) has accepted an article submitted by KROHNE pipeline management experts Maximilian Ihring and Daniel Vogt for the current issue 3/2024.

The article “Selecting the right leak detection methods to cover legal and operational requirements” shows which framework conditions need to be taken into account when making a selection. The authors provide guidance for pipeline operators who have to master the complex task of balancing the advantages and limitations of individual leak detection systems with standards, regulations and specific operating scenarios.

Furthermore, the paper also describes how different leak detection technologies can be applied so that pipeline operation during changing operating scenarios such as steady-state, transient or shut-in operation is monitored allowing leak detection during all operating conditions. This is shown by presenting a real project example. Finally, a systematic approach for the leak detection method selection is presented considering application, operational and legal requirements.