Success Stories

SABADELL - SPAIN

SCENARIO

In 2015, ATL performance reports showed a loss of flow. Once the appropriate checks were carried out and the derivations in the Vallés Occidental regional conduits were discarded, a net loss due to non-visible leakage of approximately 6.07 m³/h was calculated.

These leaks were inmediately searched by using conventional systems: pressure tests, correlation, accelerators and hydrophones. The application of these systems did not allow the location of the anomalies, mainly because the section runs through urban areas with high traffic density with the consecuent external noise.

Given the situation, ATL opted for the application of the Nautilus System, a wireless neutral buoyancy technology specifically designed for the inspection of large diameter pipelines.

RESULTS

After extracting the sphere, the information recorded by Nautilus during the inspection was processed. This software pinpoints the location of the leaks and anomalies found, by linking acoustic records and velocity with the actual layout of the pipe, changes in direction, turbulence, etc.


When the data was analized, a total of 3 incidents were detected in the 5.8-km-long section inspected, which is equivalent to an average of 1.95 leaks per kilometer.

Characteristics of the inspected section

SECTION 1

Pipe Diameter

800 - 1250mm

Length

3,447 metres

Material

Reinforced concrete with metal covering

Pressure

7 bar.

SECTION 2

Pipe Diameter

800 - 1250mm

Length

2,352 metres

Material

Reinforced concrete with metal covering

Pressure

7 bar.

TYPE OF INCIDENT

F2 Type A Leak

Incidents: 1

F3 Type A Leak

Incidents: 1

B1 Air Pocket

Incidents: 1

B2 Air Pocket

Incidents: 0

Anomaly

Incidents: 1

client testimonial

“Upon receiving the inspection report, we considered the repair of the leak and, once repaired, we found that the leaks were indeed at the indicated points.

As a result of being a reliable system, we have added it to our catalog of leak detection systems with fully satisfactory results to date.”