Siemens Energy partners with ProFlex Technologies
Siemens Energy has partnered with Houston-based ProFlex Technologies to
provide spontaneous leak detection services for pipeline operators. As part of
the agreement, Siemens Energy gains exclusive access to ProFlex Technologies’
digital Pipe-Safe™ advanced leak detection technology. The technology,
combined with Siemens Energy’s Internet of Things (IoT) system, will enable
operators to reduce the environmental risk associated with operating their
infrastructure by minimizing unplanned releases of product into the ecosystem.
The solution leverages remote pressure monitoring and complex data
processing algorithms to rapidly detect and localize pipeline leaks within +/-20
feet of their location. It is particularly relevant for companies that operate
aging infrastructure, enabling detection of small leaks in pressurized lines
transporting virtually any type of liquid or gas medium (e.g., natural gas, crude
oil, water, petrochemicals, etc.). Specific applications include long-distance oil and
gas transmission lines (i.e., multi-node systems); production gathering networks at
well sites; and offshore production risers.
“The use of Siemens Energy’s IoT technology, together with the Pipe-Safe
technology, is a powerful combination that will help operators safely operate
their assets and mitigate against the impact of unplanned product release
through the early detection of leaks,” said Nico van Rensburg, head of Onshore
Solutions’ Digital Solutions and Portfolio Innovation at Siemens Energy. “The
IoT-based leak detection solution uses highly sensitive pressure sensors
connected to pipelines at key locations to monitor internal pressure
continuously.”
Using complex data processing algorithms at the monitoring nodes, pressure
pulses created by the leak are identified, and leak location can be accurately
determined. This data can be transmitted to mobile devices or back to a central
location using the latest cloud-based technology. Immediate actions can be
taken to repair the leak. The IoT-based approach has broad applicability and is
suitable for use with any asset type, including new installations and existing
assets.
“Combining state of the art remote pressure monitoring and data processing
technologies within Siemens Energy’s IoT systems represents a cost-effective
leak detection solution that’s easy to install and requires little ongoing human
intervention,” said Stuart Mitchell, managing partner, ProFlex Technologies.
“The solution provides peace of mind to customers that any unexpected
damage to their pipeline can be immediately detected and located,
significantly reducing the volume of any liquid spill and the associated impact
to ongoing operation.”
“The Pipe-Safe solution from Pro-Flex Technologies complements our existing
IoT digital service offerings that, with the use of analytics, improve asset
efficiency and safety with greater operational transparency,” said Jennifer
Hooper, senior vice president, Industrial Applications Solutions for Siemens
Energy. “This collaboration represents yet another step on our journey to
helping the industry enhance sustainability by providing solutions that reduce
emissions and minimize environmental impacts.”
The spontaneous leak detection as-a-service is immediately available from
Siemens Energy, with the first implementations expected early next year.
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