Modernizing the leak-detection system for MOL’s oil-products pipelines - Part 1

Leak-detection systems (LDS) have become a standard component of pipeline-management systems. There are various reasons which may prompt the pipeline operator to introduce or modernize the LDS. It became necessary to introduce a new system for the MOL company’s pipelines because the previous system was out-of-date, and its operation was accompanied by a multitude of shortcomings. This article examines the real experience and long practical search carried out by MOL’s logistics department, thanks to which effective LDS functioning could be provided for pipelines which had been in long-term operation. Having considered the advantages and disadvantages of current technologies, pipeline characteristics, and operating conditions, the decision was taken to apply PWM (the pressure-wave method) as the basic method for detecting leaks. New LDS efficiency design factors were identified. Test results show that the new system has justified the calculated expectations for efficiency.