Economical, compact, reliable pipeline leak detection with the ultrasonic pig

SUMMARY: For cost reasons, many pipelines are only rarely inspected with smart pigs, because shutdowns for several inspections per year would mean huge economic losses. Real-time monitoring systems are a good way to detect large leaks, but even those are often difficult to locate. At worst, several hundred meters (yards) of pipeline must be uncovered and inspected--a disproportionate effort. Not just avoiding economic loss but also environmental protection is a top priority in pipeline operation. This means not only the search for the spilled liquid, but also the costs involved in disposing of it. After the leak is located, the pipeline must be repaired, and of course the contaminated soil has to be removed over a wide area and disposed of. Not least of the problems is the resulting loss of reputation for the operator -- a great disadvantage when it comes to acceptance by society.