Development of Model and Graphical User Interface for Leak Localization in Crude Oil Pipeline

Abstract

Pipelines provide the most efficient and cost-effective means for fluid transport but the challenge posed by leaks has substantially increased the risks and hazards in pipeline fluid transportation. The development of efficient leak detection system pays off in quicker leak detection and localization, leading to quicker responses and remediation works by the pipeline emergency response team. This would ultimately bring about less severity of the pipeline leak in terms of financial losses, human and environmental consequences. Steady state modeling of crude oil pipeline flow with attempt to determine and localize leak has been achieved in this study. Mathematical models have been developed to detect and localize leaks in crude oil pipeline during leak occurrence. Leak detection was modeled using the conservation of mass equation while leak localization was modeled by modifying the Darcy-Weisbach pipeline liquid flow equations and utilizing the Swamee-Jain friction factor correlation. Equations for flowrate and pressure drop along the pipeline were developed for two cases: a case where there is no leak in the pipeline and a case where there is leak in the pipeline. Leak localization equation was determined by equating the fluid flow equation when there is no leak and when there is leak. The model was structured and simulated in Matlab software with the model tested for four field cases. The results from the simulation revealed swift leak detection, accurate localization of the leak, and determination of the pressure at the point of leak. Experimentally determined results from actual field measurements of leak incidences were used to validate the results. The result determined from the model developed proved accurate with only an average error of 0.216 miles.