Leak Detection Methods in Transmission Pipelines and Error Sources

Leak detection in transmission pipelines is important for safe operation of pipelines. The probability of leaks may be occurred at any time and location, therefore pipeline leak detection systems play a key role in minimization of the occurrence of leaks probability and their impacts. Today there are many available assortments of modern technologies in the domain of leak detection. This paper provides the proper methodology to facilitate the choice of leak-detection system. The paper deals with external methods based on external measurements such as acoustic emissions, cable sensors, liquid sensing and vapor sensing and with some internal methods based on flow and pressure measurements in the pipeline: volume or mass balance method, pressure wave detection method, and real time modeling were described. Additionally, the discussion of error sources and final conclusions are presented.