Success Stories
SABADELL - SPAIN
- 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
Pipe Diameter
800 - 1250mm
Length
3,447 metres
Material
Reinforced concrete with metal covering
Pressure
7 bar.
Pipe Diameter
800 - 1250mm
Length
2,352 metres
Material
Reinforced concrete with metal covering
Pressure
7 bar.
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.”