Subsea Leak Detection via Temperature Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leak detection systems, such as CROC, are unsuitable for subsea systems operating near ambient conditions due to potential false alarms and difficulties in distinguishing between slug flow-induced pressure changes and actual leaks.
Innovation Solution
A temperature tracking system that monitors the operating temperature of production fluids within subsea systems, determines steady-state temperatures, and defines a temperature zone to detect deviations that may indicate a leak, thereby reducing reliance on pressure changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pressure-based leak detection (CROC method) is used, then leak detection capability is provided, but false alarms increase and detection reliability deteriorates when operating near ambient conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from pressure-based detection to temperature-based detection. By monitoring temperature changes in the production fluid rather than pressure changes, the system achieves reliable leak detection even when operating near ambient conditions where pressure-based methods fail due to insufficient pressure differential.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical pressure measurement approach with a thermal measurement approach. Instead of using pressure sensors to detect leaks through pressure differential changes, the system uses temperature sensors to detect leaks through temperature changes in the production fluid, providing a fundamentally different detection mechanism that works under ambient conditions.
2Reliability
If pressure monitoring is used to detect leaks, then leak detection is enabled, but ability to distinguish between slug flow and leaks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from pressure to temperature. Since slug flow causes pressure fluctuations but has minimal temperature impact, while leaks cause both pressure and temperature changes, temperature monitoring provides a clearer distinction between normal slug flow operations and actual leak conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces temperature as an intermediary parameter that indirectly indicates leak conditions. By monitoring temperature changes in the production fluid, the system can distinguish leaks from slug flow without directly measuring pressure, as temperature serves as a more reliable mediator for detecting actual leak events versus normal operational variations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The temperature tracking system improves the accuracy of leak detection by reducing false alarms and effectively identifying leaks in conditions where pressure-based systems fail, ensuring more reliable operation of subsea systems.
Implementation Method 1
a control system including at least one temperature transmitter configured to detect an operating temperature of the production, drilling, or export system
Data Source
AI summary
A method of detecting a leak in a production, drilling, or export system including a control system including at least one temperature transmitter. The method includes detecting the operating temperature of production fluid. The method also includes activating a temperature tracking system if the operating temperature of the production fluid exceeds a minimum temperature threshold. The method further includes determining if the operating temperature has reached a steady state operating temperature for a predetermined stability period. The method also includes arming the temperature tracking system by determining a temperature zone that extends above and below the steady state operating temperature of the production fluid. The method further includes continuously determining if the operating temperature is within the temperature zone. The method also includes indicating to an operator a potential of a leak in the production, drilling, or export system if the operating temperature deviates from the temperature zone.