ENGINEERING
AND
CONSTRUCTION
PIPELINE MODELLING
AND
LEAK DETECTION SYSTEM
S.E.I.C. srl
Viale Italia, 26
61032 Fano (PU)
Italy
Tel.: +39 0721 8121
Fax: +39 0721 8121 35
E-mail: seicfano@seicfano.it
Web: www.seicfano.it
Engineering and
Construction

INDEX
1.0 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................... 4
1.1 What is S.E.I.C. PMS .......................................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Why S.E.I.C. PMS ............................................................................................................................................... 4
2.0 Application ............................................................................................................................................................. 5
2.1 Pipeline Instrumentation .................................................................................................................................. 5
2.2 Pipeline Operational Conditions ....................................................................................................................... 5
2.3 References ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
.
3.0 Overview ................................................................................................................................................................ 7
3.1 Pipeline Modelling Software (PMS) .................................................................................................................. 7
3.1.1 Data Acquisition and Validation Module ...................................................................................................... 7
3.1.2 Real Time Module (RTM) .............................................................................................................................. 7
3.1.3 Leak Detection System Module (LDS) ........................................................................................................... 8
3.1.4 Man Machine Interface (MMI) ..................................................................................................................... 9
3.1.5 Leak Location .............................................................................................................................................. 13
3.1.6 Pipeline Inventory ....................................................................................................................................... 13
3.1.7 Instrument Check ........................................................................................................................................ 13
3.1.8 Configurator ................................................................................................................................................ 14
3.1.9 Batch Tracking – For OIL transporting Pipelines only ................................................................................. 14
3.1.10 Pig/Scraper Tracking ............................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.11 Operator Training ................................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.12 Tuning ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.13 Over and Under Pressure ....................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.14 Pipeline Efficiency ................................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.15 Gas Composition and Quality Tracking .................................................................................................. 16
.
3.1.16 Cavitation Module .................................................................................................................................. 16
3.1.17 Cathodic Protection ................................................................................................................................ 16
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3.1.18 Reservoir Management and Leak Detection Monitoring ....................................................................... 16
3.1.19 Remote Access and Control Module ...................................................................................................... 16
3.1.20 Gas Transportation and Sotrage (PMS‐GMS) ......................................................................................... 16
3.1.21 Instrumentation Configurator ................................................................................................................ 17
3.2 Simulation Software ........................................................................................................................................ 18
3.2.1 Predictive Module ....................................................................................................................................... 18
3.2.2 Look Ahead Module .................................................................................................................................... 18
3.2.3 Operations Planning Module ...................................................................................................................... 18
3.2.4 Pump Module ............................................................................................................................................. 19
3.2.5 Survival Time Module ................................................................................................................................. 19
3.2.6 Compressor and Optimisation Module ...................................................................................................... 19
.
3.2.7 Gas Temperature Monitoring ..................................................................................................................... 19
3.2.8 Load Forecasting Module............................................................................................................................ 19
3.2.9 System Flow Module .................................................................................................................................. 19
.
3.2.10 Gas Scheduler ......................................................................................................................................... 20
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
S.E.I.C. srl is expert in Pipeline Modelling, Management and Leak Detection Systems.
S.E.I.C. srl is specialized in pipeline management and leak detection solutions for water and Oil & Gas industries.
1.1 WHAT IS S.E.I.C. PMS
S.E.I.C. has developed an advanced, accurate, robust pipeline modeling software (PMS) using a Real‐Time approach
based on mathematical models. The system is designed to operate on both gas and liquid pipelines.
1.2 WHY S.E.I.C. PMS
Pipelines are the safest method for transporting hydrocarbon fluids & gas compared to trucking, rail or marine
transportation, though leaks could occur along the Pipelines causing environmental damage. Therefore it’s important
to monitor and predict possible leaks along the Pipelines.
S.E.I.C. PMS is the best solution to achieve:
A responsible environmental policy
Reduction risks of environmental damage
Leaks can be promptly detected, allowing action to be taken early before leaks grow larger and cause
potentially major catastrophes
Improvement safety of infrastructure and for personnel
Any leaks will be detected quickly thus minimizing risk to operations personnel
Reduction of false Alarms
Thanks to the Real‐Time model, correcting for pressure/temperature/volume (i.e., line pack) relationships
within the pipeline, false leak alarms are minimized
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2.0 APPLICATION
S.E.I.C. srl Pipeline Modelling and Leak Detection System can be applied to these type of pipelines:
• Airport Networks
• Gas Distribution Networks
• Multi‐product Pipelines
• Onshore Pipelines
• Offshore Pipelines
• Sub‐sea Pipelines
2.1 PIPELINE INSTRUMENTATION
S.E.I.C. srl PMS can utilize measurements from the following main pipeline instrumentation:
• Pressure Meters
• Flow Meters
• Temperature Meters
• Density Meters
• Valves
• Flow computers
2.2 PIPELINE OPERATIONAL CONDITIONS
S.E.I.C. srl PMS will run on the following pipeline operational conditions with minimum false alarms:
• Multi‐Phase Flows
• Pigging
• Variable product Densities
• Variable Temperatures
• Reverse Flows
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2.3 REFERENCES
Client Country Year Pipeline Product
PraOil Italy 2007‐2008 Leak Detection System for Gaeta ‐ Pomezia Gasoline/
Pipeline Jet Fuel/
Light Oil
KTI Technip Egypt 2006‐2007 Leak Detection System for El‐Arish ‐ Asquelon Gas
Pipeline
Praoil Italy 2005‐2006 Leak Detection System for Montealpi ‐ Taranto Oil
Pipeline
OJSC KAZTRANSOIL Kazakhstan 2005 Leak Detection System for Eastern/Western Oil
Branch
FoxPetroli Italy 2003‐2004 Leak Detection System for Pipeline from Gasoil/
Adriatic See shore to onshore Tank Farm. Gasoline/
Supplied mini‐SCADA System. Oil
FoxBoro SCADA Italy 2003‐2006 Leak Detection System for Settignano Water
(Florence) water supply network.
ENPPI Egypt 2003‐2006 Leak Detection System for Port Said ‐ Damietta Butane/
Pipeline Propane
ENPPI Egypt 2003‐2006 Leak Detection System for El Arish ‐ Aqaba Methane
Pipeline
OJSC KAZTRANSOIL Kazakhstan 2002‐2003 Leak Detection System for Oil
‐ Western Branch
‐ Eastern Branch
‐ Aktyubinsk Branch
AGIP Italy 2002‐2003 Leak Detection System for sealines Angela ‐ Process
Angelina/Angela Cluster Water
OJSC KAZTRANSOIL Kazakhstan 2002 I‐GIS (Intelligent‐Geographical Information Oil
System) for Aktau‐Zhetybai/Uzen Pipeline
E.A.K.A.A. Greece 2001‐2006 Leak Detection System for Fuel Transmission Jet Fuel
Pipeline Hel.PE ‐ “Airport El.Venizelos”
NPC‐ National Power Philippines 2001 Leak Detection System for Ilijan Gas Pipeline Methane
Corporation
Raffinerie di Roma Italy 2001 Leak Detection System for Rome Refinery to Gasoline/
sea and to International Airport Pipelines Jet Fuel/
Crude Oil
YUKOS‐OIL Russia 1999‐2000 Leak Detection System for Priobsky‐Yokos Crude Oil
Pipeline + Gas
ENICHEM Italy 1995 Leak Detection System for Ferrara‐Ravenna Ethylene
Pipeline in
gaseous
state
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3.0 OVERVIEW
S.E.I.C. PMS is a modular software, running on WINDOWS‐based platforms, which can interface to any
SCADA/DCS/RTU system.
S.E.I.C. PMS is fully OPC (OLE for Process Control) compliant.
3.1 PIPELINE MODELLING SOFTWARE (PMS)
S.E.I.C. Pipeline Modelling Software is based on dynamic modelling software about fluid transportation in a pipeline,
called Real‐Time Model (RTM) and developed using field proven equations on pipelines Engineering.
The Leak Manager software (one for each line, for multi‐line pipeline systems) permits to automatically manage all
modules without intervention of the Operator.
3.1.1 DATA ACQUISITION AND VALIDATION MODULE
This Module represents the interface with SCADA/DCS/RTU systems for field data acquisition and processing. It has
the aim of:
1. Data Reception
Acquisition of field data from SCADA/DCS/RTU
2. Data Pre‐processing
Acceptance study of received data
3. Data Recovery
Reconstruction of invalid/out of range data
4. Data Generation
Mathematical reconstruction of missing informations (e.g. density or viscosity values, wall and environmental
temperatures)
3.1.2 REAL TIME MODULE (RTM)
RTM Module goal is to provide the thermo‐fluid dynamic trend along the Pipeline from the field sensors values
acquired by SCADA/DCS/RTU, calculating in real‐time the axial profiles of pressure, volumetric flow, fluid temperature,
viscosity and density.
1. Dynamic RTM
Operating conditions of the Pipeline
2. Static RTM
Pipeline intercepted or no flow condition
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3.1.3 LEAK DETECTION SYSTEM MODULE (LDS)
PMS Module detects and locates possible leaks along the Pipeline, manages warning and alarm Messages.
1. Flow Deviation (FD)
Based on the analysis of the differences between the simulated/calculated flow data upstream and
downstream the node where a pressure measurement is available
2. Standard Volume Dynamic Balance (BVD)
Based on the balance of the inlet fluid volume at standard operating conditions, the outlet fluid volume at
standard operating conditions and the standard volume change of the fluid in the Pipeline due to
temperature and pressure changes, throughout some different time intervals
3. Standard Volume Static Balance (BVS)
Applied to pipeline sections delimited by closed check valves, taking into account also flow deviation due to
pressure and temperature changes
4. Differential Pressure (PD)
Applied to pipeline sections delimited by closed check valves
5. Real‐time Dynamyc Statistical Analysis (RTDSA)
Statistical mass balance to determine the probability of a leak in order to reduce at minimum level the false
alarms
6. Real‐time Static Statistical Analysis (RTSSA)
Applied to pipeline sections delimited by closed valve, the methodology is the same described above
excepting for flow inlet and outlet and equation solved
7. Pressure Surge (PS ) – FOR OIL TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
Based on detection of pressure surge caused by a rupture, this method checks that pressure values don't
exceed a fixed limited temporal variation
8. Alarm Thresholds Management
The module works on the comparison between leak parameters and threshold values defined for each
parameter. Threshold values are dynamically calculated while PMS is running, following the operating
conditions of the Pipeline and the state of instrumentation in order to reduce false alarm
9. Alarm Management
This Module controls the differences between the calculated thresholds and the relevant leak parameters:
when the leak parameter overcomes the relevant threshold an Aarm signal will be generated, with different
levels
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3.1.4 MAN MACHINE INTERFACE (MMI)
MMI Module is independent from other calculating modules and it represents the Operator Interface of the System.
1. Main Window
This is the Graphical Interface of PMS, displaying the map with the complete Pipeline pattern and all features
and operations allowed to the Operator.
2. RTM Graphs
RTM graphs show temperature, pressure, flow and other variables values calculated along the selected
pipeline section. RTM graphs are refreshed at regular intervals, depending on SCADA data updating.
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3. BVD Graphs
BVD graphs are a group of different plots (windows) showing the Ud values trend relevant to the selected line
section.
4. BVS Graphs
BVS graphs are similar to BVD graphs, but relevant to static conditions of the Pipeline.
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5. PD Graphs
PD Graphs show upstream and downstream differential pressure and relevant thresholds for the selected
pipe section.
6. FD Graphs
FD Graphs show upstream and downstream flow and relevant thresholds for the selected pipe section
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7. Over/Under Pressure Graphs
Graph reports over and under pressure thresholds and pressure value along the line.
8. Pressure Surge Graphs – FOR OIL TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
Graph reports trend of pressure peaks for each node. It’s possible to compare two nodes each time.
9. Cavitation Graphs – FOR OIL TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
This graph reports the section of Pipeline and the level of the fluid inside a part of Pipeline which could
present a cavitation phenomenon (for the section length interested by cavitation).
10. Inventory Graphs
This graph represents the inventory in the pipe connected with the time. Two different thresholds generate
warning in case of exceeding. A trend prediction is possible in case of a no‐flat situation
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3.1.5 LEAK LOCATION
Scope of the Leak Location is to estimate the x‐coordinate of the Pipeline where a leak is detected .
1. FD Module
Dynamic Leak Location by FD Module automatically provides information as soon as the FD Method
calculation detects a leak
2. Location Module
Dynamic Leak Location using Location Module is most complex and more accurate
3.1.6 PIPELINE INVENTORY
Pipeline Inventory Module allows the Operator to estimate the actual inventory and line‐pack in certain boundary
conditions. This Module allows to know how much product is stored in the Pipeline, for example to foreseen the
necessary available capacity to empty the line.
3.1.7 INSTRUMENT CHECK
Instrument Check Module gathers and checks instrumentation
data received from SCADA in order to give information regarding
the state and drift of field instrumentation. The aim of this
Module is to give suggestion about maintenance schedule and to
inform the operator about possible field instrumentation
malfunctioning.
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3.1.8 CONFIGURATOR
Configuration Module provides an
intuitive interface for the configuration
of the whole system. This module allows
the Operator to browse through
configuration data, to select different
configuration files, to edit and save
modified configuration files.
3.1.9 BATCH TRACKING – FOR OIL TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
Batch Tracking Module provides
information about batches location
along the Pipeline, number and length
of batches inside the Pipeline,
estimated arrival time at each
characteristic point along the line
(plants, valve locations, etc.) and speed.
A graphical representation will allow
the Operator to identify the
displacement of interfaces of different
products along the Pipeline.
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3.1.10 PIG/SCRAPER TRACKING
Pig/Scraper Tracking Module provides information about pig/scraper
location along the pipeline, number of pig/scrapers currently inside the
pipeline, estimated time of arrival at the trap, bends, valve location, about
pressure drop upstream and
downstream the pig/scraper,
pig/scraper speed.
The Module is automatically started
any time a pig detector switch, installed
at the pump/delivery stations, detects a
Pig/Scraper launching.
3.1.11 OPERATOR TRAINING
Operator Training Module is a software package for the Operator Training in plant management.
This Module reads the files/database information and simulates commands issued by the Operator.
During the Training session simulated data created by Trainer can be used instead of real‐time data, to check the
trainee’s responses to the sent data. The output consists of the files/database with the simulation results.
3.1.12 TUNING
Tuning Module allows the Operator to execute system tuning both in manual and automatic mode; the adjustment of
system parameters is done to establish the closest possible accordance between real process and model process.
It is very important that system tuning is carried out in no leak conditions with instrument system working
correctly.
3.1.13 OVER AND UNDER PRESSURE
Over and under Pressure analysis is continuously performed comparing the computed pressure values and measured
values at node points with the higher and lower limits, generating the relevant alarms when a pressure value, exceeds
the settled limits.
3.1.14 PIPELINE EFFICIENCY
Pipeline Efficiency Module is able to define the Efficiency and the Aging of the pipeline on the basis of monitoring and
valuation of head loss that increase in time because of deposits formation on wall pipeline.
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This analysis gives the Operator useful informations about the efficiency of the pipeline in order to decide for
appropriate correction actions (configuration, pipe cleaning, increasing in pump inlet pressure, etc) to improve the
operating Pipeline system performance.
3.1.15 GAS COMPOSITION AND QUALITY TRACKING
Gas Composition and Quality Tracking Module allows the Operator to monitor the gas composition along each
segment of the whole gas network and is able to give information about the gas composition taking into account all
the contributions due to the feeds of the branches to the trunk line.
FOR GAS TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
3.1.16 CAVITATION MODULE
Cavitation Module permits to detect possible cavitation zone along a Pipeline.
Cavitation phenomenon may occur in Pipeline trunks where fluid pressure is lower than its vapor pressure: along
these trunks there are both liquid and vapor. Cavitation phenomenon is strongly influenced by altimetric profile of the
Pipeline: e.g. the increase of altitude can cause of a drop of pressure for a liquid.
FOR OIL TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
3.1.17 CATHODIC PROTECTION
Cathodic Protection Module is a graphic display communicating with the cathodic protection system and its purpose
is the visualization of the current drain for each power supply together with cathodic potential in each measurement
point.
3.1.18 RESERVOIR MANAGEMENT AND LEAK DETECTION MONITORING
This Module allows the Operator to manage and control all the operations relevant to the filling in and to the
emptying out of the tank(s).
The Reservoir Management and Leak Detection Monitoring Module is able to give the Operator the information
relevant to the operating conditions of the tanks system. At the same time the Module will monitor the possible leaks
of the tanks on the basis of the incoming/out coming oil quantities, of temperature and pressure.
FOR OIL TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
3.1.19 REMOTE ACCESS AND CONTROL MODULE
This module allows S.E.I.C. technical staff easily connect and access in each moment from the headquarters of society
to the PC when the PMS is installed, for the immediate remote control and check of PMS and all its modules.
3.1.20 GAS TRANSPORTATION AND SOTRAGE (PMS‐GMS)
The primary purpose of the PMS‐GMS application is to support the commercial management and control of natural
gas pipeline and storage assets. The commercial activity supported are separated into different major processes, and
the software applications have appropriate interfaces for each of this area.
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FOR GAS TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
3.1.21 INSTRUMENTATION CONFIGURATOR
Instrument Configurator allows the Operator to disable a sensor from the PMS acquisition
in case of malfunctioning.
The software will automatically adapt the new configuration of the system (trunks/section)
to the new conditions (available sensors).
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3.2 SIMULATION SOFTWARE
S.E.I.C. Simulation Software is a Pipeline Simulator for the design and operational analysis of existing networks which
calculates flow, pressure, temperature, line‐pack, survival time under different operational scenarios.
Initial states can be loaded from the live pipeline or historical data
3.2.1 PREDICTIVE MODULE
Scope of this module is to provide a utility for the
Operator to simulate particular operating
conditions before applying them to the Pipeline.
All simulating operations
can be easily defined on a
specific graphical
interface.
3.2.2 LOOK AHEAD MODULE
Look Ahead Module provides a prediction of possible future system condition allowing the Operator to act before a
critical condition occurs.
This is an off‐line Module totally independent of the Pipeline Modelling Software.
3.2.3 OPERATIONS PLANNING MODULE
Scope of this Operations Planning Module is to define the operating conditions, regarding Pipeline management,
taking into account the delivery plan. Operating condition for pipeline management has to be intended as pumps
schedule which guarantees the delivery plan.
FOR OIL TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
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3.2.4 PUMP MODULE
Pump Module has the aim simulate pumps behaviour.
The overall system behaviour can be simulated as a block diagram with relevant transfer function and can be used
both for flow‐rate and pressure control.
FOR OIL TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
3.2.5 SURVIVAL TIME MODULE
This module allows the Operator to determine the optimal operation of the Pipeline network on the basis of existing
line‐pack, source flow, and the actual takeoff’s in case of loss of major supply to the Pipeline system.
FOR GAS TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
3.2.6 COMPRESSOR AND OPTIMISATION MODULE
Compressor and Optimisation Module has the aim simulate turbo‐compressors behaviour.
The overall system behavior can be simulated as a block diagram with relevant transfer function and can be used both
for flow‐rate and pressure control.
FOR GAS TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
3.2.7 GAS TEMPERATURE MONITORING
In sub‐sea lines gas temperature cannot be measured, so it has to be calculated. The Simulation Software, through
Gas Temperature Monitoring Module, provides to model and calculate gas temperature.
The Simulation can be executed either with actual process parameters or with manually entered data.
FOR GAS TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
3.2.8 LOAD FORECASTING MODULE
Load forecasting Module is used in the determination of the anticipated gas flows on a Pipeline system and could also
be used to develop a variability profile for historical volumetric throughput of the Pipeline system.
FOR GAS TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
3.2.9 SYSTEM FLOW MODULE
System Flow Module is utilized to analyze the variability of the system load and allow physical control to increase the
efficiency of system operation, and allow for a more detailed understanding of the available capacity of the system.
FOR GAS TRANSPORTING PIPELINES ONLY
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3.2.10 GAS SCHEDULER
Gas Scheduler Module
defines necessary upstream
supply conditions, for a single
Pipeline, to ensure a
scheduled downstream flow
downstream, generally
maintaining the downstream
pressure inside fixed bounds.
Upstream pressure and flow
are related and bounded by
Pipeline turbocompressors
characteristic of operation.
FOR GAS TRANSPORTING
PIPELINES ONLY
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