Terminals and Pipeline Leak Location

terminals and pipeline leak location

Don't let a small leak become a big problem

Damaged pipes not only leak product but profits and productivity. That’s why we provide a comprehensive suite of accurate and reliable technologies and services that are designed to fit the needs and budget of your business, and are backed by the best experience and reputation in the industry.

The Tracer Tight® leak detection technology is available for a wide range of applications, including tanks and pipes buried under pavement, concrete and buildings. The Tracer Tight method is a patented system for inoculating a tank or pipeline with a small amount of tracer chemical. Next, probes are installed under and around the tank or pipeline allowing the Tracer Tight service technician to collect and analyze soil vapour samples. If a leak occurs, tracer is transported to the soil where it is easily detected by gas chromatography. Using this process, Linde can identify and locate leaks as small as 3.8 l (1 gallon) per day regardless of the size of the tank.

We’ve also developed the SeeperTrace® pipeline leak location service for long-distance pipelines.  This commercially available technology quickly and cost-effectively locates leaks in buried pipelines that carry liquids, gases or multi-phase products. A leak as small as 3.8L  (1 gallon) per day can be detected without service interruption or excavation.

And finally, our HeliTec® helium leak detection service quickly locates leaks in buried pipelines as well as plant piping and systems. The method uses a helium tracer in a gas, usually with nitrogen as a carrier gas, and a sensitive helium detector. The normal fluid is removed from the line, the line is pressurized with the test gas, and then the helium detector is used to sense the presence of helium in the air above the line.

Pressure and Leak Testing

New piping and vessels often need their mechanical integrity proven prior to use. Existing vessels and piping can require a similar test as part of an asset integrity program or for re-rating at a higher pressure. We offer pneumatic testing with our nitrogen pumping services. 

For existing piping and pipeline, we can also add a tracer to either nitrogen gas or water to quickly and accurately locate leaks with our SeeperTrace leak detection service, allowing the leak to be repaired and the test completed without costly project delays.