Numerical study on leakage detection and location in a simple gas pipeline branch using an array of pressure sensors

Pressure signals measured in gas pipelines provide useful information for monitoring the status of pipeline network operations. This study numerically investigates leakage detection and location in a simple gas pipeline branch using transient signals from an array of pressure sensors. A pipeline network simulation model was developed and used to predict one-dimensional compressible flow in gas pipelines. Two monitoring methods were tested for leakage detection and location; these include cross-correlation monitoring and pressure differential monitoring. The performance and reliability of the two monitoring methods were numerically assessed based on simulation results for a simple pipeline branch operation with a prescribed leakage rate (5% of total flow rate in the gas pipeline).