Detection of hypothetical leaks offshore and/or in the arctic requires particular attention due to the remoteness of resource locations and the sensitivity of the environmental conditions. A resulting and on-going emphasis on asset integrity produces an interest in leak detection systems that have continual improvements in sensitivity and reliability. In this paper, a discussion of offshore pipeline leak detection functional requirements is presented followed by an overview of the state-of-the-art systems, including a qualitative comparison and a discussion of technology gaps. A concept of integrated leak detection that employs complementary technologies is proposed. It is envisioned that the integrated leak detection concept will enhance leak detection reliability. The technologies considered in the concept are compensated volume balance computational pipeline monitoring (CPM) and distributed fiber optic (FO) sensors. Since the application of FO sensors to offshore pipelines is relatively new, an overview of application requirements and the feasibility of achieving such requirements are also presented.
The petroleum industry continues to move into challenging environments such as the ultra-deepwater offshore and the arctic as these resources start becoming economically viable for development. Producing hydrocarbons from these resources differs significantly from conventional offshore production in several aspects. In the case of the offshore arctic, conditions such as remoteness, limited access due to sheet ice cover for several months of the year, potential of ice gouging and wide operational temperature range (-50 0F – 50 0F) exist. In such conditions, it becomes more important than ever to be able to detect potential leaks. Thus, to ensure operational integrity in such environments, subsea leak detection systems that provide continuous monitoring capability and are highly sensitive and at the same time, experience fewer false alarms appear to be required. This paper discusses the functional requirements for offshore and arctic pipeline leak detection followed by a brief overview of current leak detection systems.
