Leak Detection Verification Program

Fluid Withdrawal Testing

Flowstate has conducted over 245 fluid withdrawal tests on a variety of pipeline segments.

We believe the best end to end test of a leak detection solution is through fluid withdrawal tests. Through our continued partnership with Bridger Pipeline, we have been given unparalleled access to conduct dozens of such tests on a variety of pipelines and under various scenarios. 

This has allowed for verification and validation of the Flowstate LDS solution as well as provided valuable data for research and development.

Test have included:

Line Types

Transmission Lines

Gathering Lines

Crude & Diesel lines

 

Leak Detection Methods

Statistical Volume Balance (SPRT)

Leak Signature Recognition

Rupture Recognition

 

Hydraulic Conditions

Packing/unpacking

Flow rate changes

Pump/Set-Point Changes

 

The image below shows some results of testing for different types of lines – illustrating our achieved Time to Detection for various leak sizes:

Example Tests

Our testing activities include tests designed to stress the system or verify success in challenging conditions. Here are a couple examples of some of the stress tests we’ve run. 

1% Leak on Transmission Line – Demonstration of Two Leak Detection Methods

In this example, oil is withdrawn at just 40 bph to simulate a 1% leak. Although the leak is small, the Flowstate Signature Recognition model is raised an alarm in just 8 1/2 minutes. The Statistical Volume Balance model raised an alarm in 30 minutes.  

Leak on Small Transmission Line – Starts During No Flow

In this example, a leak starts prior to flow initiating on the line. Flow begins 20 minutes into the leak and takes some time to “pack” the line. Despite these conditions, the leak is detected in less than 2 1/2 hours.

Leak on Gathering Line During Multiple LACT Events 

In this example, a gathering line with 4 intermittently active inputs experiences a leak with many units coming on and off. Despite these conditions, the leak is detected in under an hour (50 min). 

Want to see more?

Jump back to the top and download several examples in the Case Study.

DOWNLOAD DETAILED TEST EXAMPLES

This report includes a description of the 3 leak detection methods tested as well as detailed results of 4 test cases.