Crude and other petroleum resources though expensive and valuable can be harmful when left exposed. They, therefore, need a safe means of transportation and pipelines are one of the safest means used in the movement of these resources from one location to another.
Pipes are used by most areas of industry in the transportation of substances such as water, gas, waste, or fuel, from one place to another. A lot of money is therefore invested in the construction of pipelines that are safe and reliable. A leak in any of these piping system causes huge loss to the companies and is equally dangerous to those around that vicinity.
These pipelines, therefore, require a certain level of maintenance to ensure that they are in good conditions. Also, only those with the right skills and knowledge in leak repair for pipelines should be employed for this purpose as doing otherwise could cause devastating results. Thorough research should be done to ensure a professional leakage-stopping service provider is engaged.
Prevention of Pipeline Leaks
Leakage leads to loss of material, damage to the environment, and the company’s image not to mention the additional costs involved in cleaning up the mess and civil liabilities. This can however be avoided by employing safe practices which will put in place measures to avoid such an occurrence. Carrying out the following measures will ensure the safety and durability of the pipes.
Avoid Geographical Hazards
To avoid this danger along pipeline routes, tools such as aerial photography, satellite imagery, and geographical maps should be employed to understand the terrain and to avoid locating designs along with the areas of supply and delivery. These instruments will also aid in identifying other environmental obstacles early enough.
Compressors or Pump size
These need to be properly fitted to prevent leakage. Simulations can be conducted to ascertain the usability of hydraulics and if the pumps or compressors are being employed economically.
Protection from Corrosion
Protecting pipelines by using cathodic protection systems and special coating will prevent them from rusting or wearing away.
Inspection of Pipeline
Advanced forms of non-destructive testing are carried out to check for structural damages on the outside walls. This also includes ultrasonics and testing for magnetic particles. High-resolution forms under the in-line inspection can be used to conduct internal testing and to prevent leaks.
Proper Training
Training should not be for only operators to identify conditions that can cause a dangerous release but also for people who live near pipelines. They should equally be educated on actions that could cause leakage problems and how to avoid them.
How to Stop Leakage in Pipelines
Several techniques can be employed to stop pipeline leakage. Although most of them would demand the system to be partially shut down, some others would not. They are as follows:
Line Freezing
This involves the use of nitrogen in isolating some areas of the system so that work can be executed on the affected part. To do this, a jacket is first wrapped around the pipe before liquid nitrogen is injected into the space between the pipe and the jacket. This automatically builds a freezing plug and enables the repair to be executed.
Hot Tapping
This method doesn’t demand a complete shutdown of the entire system as holes are drilled in a pressurized vessel or line. Certain instruments are then installed through these holes or even to make tie-ins and connect branches. The steam generator of a plant is a perfect example of such a vessel.
If you need more information about hot tapping, you can check here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_tapping.
Bolting Services
This method is often used in refineries and gas plants for operating systems with high pressure and temperature. It involves measuring the bolt stress, tensioning the bolt, and tightening the torque.
Leak Sealing
This is commonly referred to as an online technique since it doesn’t require cutting off the supply of the product. It can be executed while all systems are operational without causing any destruction. It is mostly used on a large system like crude oil piping systems.
Line Plugging
This method works in combination with the hot tapping technique when the pipe is transporting crude oil before the line is plugged with special equipment. This technique also allows for the closing of pressurized pipelines or the separation of certain components.
It works with a sealing ingredient that is joined to the top-of-the-line plugging machine. It is then positioned in the pipe to prevent the flow of the fluid. This method doesn’t require the complete shutdown of the entire system and saves cost.
Hiring the Best Pipeline Leak Stopping Services
Leak repair in piping systems is expensive and when carried out constantly, causes wear to the pipe therefore, it is vital to employ the services of an expert who will do a proper and thorough job to avoid repeats. There are some basic considerations to bear in mind before hiring a professional, this will aid you in choosing the best service provider for the job.
Research
Carrying out research is important and only takes a little of your time but helps you get the best service. Search for professionals who have a good reputation. This can be known based on the comments of customers who have patronized them before. They must be capable of providing satisfaction.
Knowledge of Techniques
Although, you will employ the services of a professional, having a wide knowledge of the various repair methods available will help in choosing the most suitable option for the repair. It will also enable you to converse properly with the service provider while also asking the right questions. This way you will have your expectations set straight.
Technological Advancement
In choosing a service provider, the type of equipment being used by the company is very important. Is their equipment up to standard with current trends? Modern instruments such as acoustic leak detectors, snake and thermal imaging cameras, and leak tracing gas systems are some of the instruments which are required to effectively and efficiently carry out their job.
Certification and Training
There should be proof of the acquisition of the skills and knowledge being advertised. Certificates give credence to whatever claim is made. Training also shows that additional effort was made to acquire more experience in the field, giving you an edge over others.
Great Customer Service
This is often ignored but it is vital as it goes to show the extent to which the company would go to ensure the satisfaction of their clients. A company with bad customer service may not be willing to go the extra mile to see their clients' satisfaction.
Conclusion
Leaking pipelines are known to cause serious damage to the environment and equally put communities on that route at great risk therefore they should not be taken lightly. Proper maintenance should be carried out on the pipes.
There should also be the prompt repair of damages to prevent it from worsening. Finally, always employ the services of professionals with a proven track record whose quality of work is guaranteed.
