APRIL 28, 2015
TransCanada, Kinder Morgan and Enbridge are partnering together
on the venture, in hopes of improving overall above-ground pipeline safety.
The aircraft sensors will be required to detect small
leaks in pipelines. The research will involve laboratory and field testing. The
testing will be carried out by Edmonton-based C-FER Technologies.
Brian Wagg, a director with C-FER Technologies says the
challenge with aerial leak detection is not with the aircraft, but with
choosing appropriate sensors to detect liquid hydrocarbon leaks before
they reach the surface.
"This program helps operating companies understand
which technologies are best suited for detecting these leaks, and will provide
vendors with unique information on what leaks actually look like,"
said Wagg in a statement. "This information will help those
vendors fine-tune their systems to detect leaks with greater reliability."
The aircraft testing project could include researching the
use of infrared cameras, laser-based spectroscopy systems, and flame ionization
detection systems. Trials are expected to begin this fall.
The three pipeline companies previously joined together to
develop a pipeline simulator.
The energy sector has had interest in aircraft for decades.
Just last year, BP received permission from regulators to use drones
to patrol its Alaskan oil fields.
Source: http://www.cbc.ca
According to a
recent Houston Chronicle article on drones, energy companies worldwide are
testing new ways to use drones to save time and improve safety. Drones could
eventually become an integral part of oil and gas operations, the article
states.
"It's coming," Curt Smith, a director at BP's
chief technology office in Houston, told the newspaper. "The question is
how long will it take."