What is the worst thing that can happen to a pipeline that is transporting oil or gas? Without hesitation, the answer is leakage. What's even worse, leaks are difficult to detect without the use of thermal imaging cameras. Therefore, it's important for O&G companies to invest in thermal technology and know how best to use it. In this article, we will discuss detecting leaks using thermal imaging cameras and provide insights as to how you can make your investment worthwhile.

What is Thermal Imaging and How Does it Work?

Thermal imaging is a technology that involves emissivity. With MOBOTIX cameras, preset temperature levels measure the differences from a material’s normal emissivity to a temperature that is abnormal. This allows the cameras to immediately detect changes in ambient tempurature in locations where they should not be. If this were to occur, immediate communication can be sent to the proper authorities to take any necessary actions. In addition, up to 20 zones of temperature detection can be set within a single field of view (FoV) which can in turn, lead to the detection of multiple oil or gas leaks based on their individual emissive temperatures.

These unique cameras from MOBOTIX can also combine optical viewing overlays on top of the thermal imaging views which can provide an enhanced viewing experience. With optical viewing, infrared lighting can be introduced so that the operator can see not just the thermal images, but also the optical images simultaneously. Pre-programmed communication & messages to authorities or to other IP devices can then be activated based on the level of detection. This is critical as it means that any evidence of temperature variance and/or visible damage through MOBOTIX thermal cameras can be quickly identified before things get worse.

How Can Thermal Imaging Prevent Oil Leaks?

Thermal imaging can help identify potential leaks in pipelines before they become a problem. By identifying hotspots and areas of increased or decreased temperature along a pipeline, technicians can take corrective action to prevent a leak from happening or getting worse. In advanced cases, thermal imaging can be used in combination with mapping to pinpoint the exact location on an incident.

What are the Benefits of Thermal Imaging?

Thermal imaging is a valuable tool for detecting leaks because of:

• Effectiveness in all weather conditions, no matter the light level.
• Precise detection of leaks that could be missed by other methods.
• View and communication of leaks in real time that enable resulting actions to be made quickly.
• Faster decision making due to accurate detection of problems early on before they grow.

How Can You Utilize Thermal Imaging?

Oil and gas companies can benefit from thermal imaging technology in several ways. One way is to use these cameras during pipeline surveys or inspections to detect leaks before they become a problem. From a preventative maintenance perspective, this means that companies can avoid costly repairs and protect the environment from pollution. Companies that do not have thermal imaging equipment should consider investing in it as a preventative measure to ensure their pipelines remain leak-free for longer periods of time.

Thermal Imaging: The Future of Pipeline Leak Detection

As mentioned, thermal imaging is a technology that is becoming more widely used that can help oil and gas companies prevent costly leaks and fines. Not only does this technology save the company time and money, but it also protects the environment from further damage. With MOBOTIX advancing their product line by carrying in higher VGA resolution sensors for the MOBOTIX 7 thermal cameras, there are even more additional thermal benefits to take advantage of.

The Bottom Line

Thermal imaging is an important technology for detecting leaks at the earliest stages possible and limit the potential of major problems costing valuable time, money, and the priceless reputation of companies. MOBOTIX provides high-quality thermal cameras that are designed and manufactured in Germany specifically to detect and prevent oil and gas leaks. Contact us today to learn more about investing in MOBOTIX thermal camera technology to obtain the highest levels of safety and security of your oil and gas infrastructure.