Bisection Algorithm for Pipeline Leak Location and Size
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Solution Overview
Problem
Identifying the location and size of leaks in pipelines is challenging due to remoteness and lack of visual sightings and equipment readings.
Innovation Solution
A pressure deviation procedure coupled with a deterministic bisection numerical method is used to determine the leak size and location in a pipeline, relying on accurate measurements of pressure and flowrate at upstream and downstream locations, without requiring additional sensors or intrusive devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional leak detection methods are used, then leak location can be identified, but the process requires multiple sensors, transmitters, and intrusive devices which increases device complexity and measurement requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for multiple sensors, transmitters, and intrusive devices by using a computational method that processes data from existing SCADA system measurements. The bisection numerical method determines leak location and size through mathematical calculations rather than physical detection devices, thereby simplifying the overall system while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical and physical detection systems (acoustic transmitters, microphones, scrapers, multiple sensors) with a computational algorithm. The bisection numerical method uses pressure and flowrate measurements processed through mathematical models to identify leak characteristics, substituting complex mechanical detection infrastructure with software-based analysis.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and transmitters are deployed along the pipeline, then leak detection accuracy improves, but the cost and complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing SCADA system measurements serve multiple functions: they are used for both routine pipeline monitoring and for precise leak location and size determination. The same pressure and flowrate data from existing sensors are repurposed through the bisection numerical method to achieve high-accuracy leak detection without requiring dedicated leak detection hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the existing pipeline monitoring system to perform leak detection and localization functions using its own existing measurements. The SCADA system's pressure and flowrate data are processed through the bisection algorithm to self-determine leak characteristics, eliminating the need for separate detection infrastructure.
3Reliability
If intrusive devices are used for leak detection, then reliable leak identification is achieved, but pipeline operation is disrupted and maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a computational algorithm as an intermediary that processes measurements from existing non-intrusive SCADA system sensors. Rather than using intrusive physical devices that contact the pipeline, the bisection numerical method acts as a mathematical intermediary, translating routine pressure and flowrate measurements into reliable leak identification results without physical intervention.
4Measurement precision
If additional measurements and equipment are required for precise leak location, then measurement accuracy improves, but the time and resources required for implementation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by continuously collecting and storing pressure and flowrate measurements through the existing SCADA system during normal pipeline operations. When a leak is suspected, the bisection numerical method can immediately process this pre-collected data to rapidly determine leak location and size, eliminating the need for time-consuming additional measurements or equipment deployment.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods include a method for locating a leak in a pipeline. Pressure and flowrate measurements are received corresponding to fluid flowing through a pipeline for which a leak is to be located in a pipeline segment. A calculated leak size is determined based pressure and flowrate measurements for upstream and downstream locations. A first assumed leak location is identified. A first assumed leak size is determined. A simulation is executed based on the first assumed leak size, first assumed leak location, and pressure and flowrate measurements, producing a virtually measured leak size. If a difference between the virtually measured and calculated leak size is not within acceptance criteria, a second assumed leak size is iteratively determined, the simulation is re-executed, and the difference is re-determined. A second assumed leak location is iteratively identified, and the simulation is re-executed to determine an estimated leak location of the leak.