Internal Repair of Pipeline Leaks Using Pressure-Activated Sealant

Abstract

TX 75083-3836, U.S.A., fax 01-972-952-9435. AbstractA cost-effective method of internally repairing pipeline leaks has been developed that -in many instances -eliminates the need for expensive and risky external mechanical repairs.By delivering a pressure-activated sealant between two pigs to a leak site and pressure activating the sealant to polymerize as a flexible solid within the leak path, it is possible to internally repair pipeline leaks without the need for excavating or replacing defective sections with minor leaks.

Safety First, Environment Last: Improving Regulation of Gas Pipeline Leaks

“…Large leaks, caused by corrosion or other major failures, are often repaired by excavating the pipeline and replacing the corroded section or covering it with a sleeve. 30 This is not, however, always required. Many leaks can be repaired internally by, for example, using cables to insert a liner into the pipe or applying a sealant onto the interior surface thereof using devices known as pigs.…”

Systematic Experimental Investigation on In-Situ Self-Adaptive Sealing Property of Composite Pressure-Activated Sealant for Curing Minor Tubular Leaks

“…They pointed out that the sealant treatments were more favorable to peoples' health and safety and to the environment, and they also emphasized that the plugging capabilities and longevity of the sealant technology needed to be further studied to enlarge the sealant's application. Rusch et al [13] reported on the component characteristics of the pressure-activated sealant and defined its particulate size to distinguish it from conventional particulate sealants. In addition, they validated the sealant's application in a new field of curing leaks in gas transmission pipelines.…”