Leak detection systems for hydrogen and carbon dioxide pipelines

A key enabler within the energy transition is the ability to safely and economically transport hydrogen. Pipelines have proven to be a safe and economical mean for this. Nevertheless due to the nature of hydrogen small leaks are common. Phenomena like hydrogen embrittlement due to absorbed hydrogen increase the risk. Therefore reliable leak detection for hydrogen pipelines is of key importance.

Classical systems have limitations due to the damping of physical effects such as negative pressure waves or because of linepack changes caused by compressibility. This leads to long detection times or high thresholds. The systems will react with a loss of sensitivity or in the worst case with false alarms. This is different with KROHNE PipePatrol.

PipePatrol is a leading edge system for pipeline leak detection and localisation in pipelines. It is the most sensitive internal leak detection system (LDS) available, providing accurate leak information for a high degree of safety. PipePatrol combines the Real Time Transient Model (RTTM) with a patented Leak Pattern Recognition module to create an Extended Real Time Transient Model (E-RTTM). This improves overall robustness for hydrogen applications as it accepts different compositions and mixtures related imbalance and errors. This way, the system reliably detects leaks in 100% hydrogen pipelines as well as pipelines transporting blends of hydrogen and natural gas and separates false alarms from real leaks.

The system meets the relevant national regulations (eg the German TRFL), and complies with international industry standards – for example the API 1175 on pipeline leak detection program management, API 1130 for computational pipeline monitoring, AB 864 and the CSA Z662.

KROHNE PipePatrol systems can be retrofitted onto existing pipelines as an upgrade to the system management, using existing instrumentation. KROHNE also supplies complete project packages, including flow and other instrumentation, complete with remote data communication solutions.