SmartBall Technology
In a single deployment, the SmartBall® tool can collect a variety of inline inspection data in both piggable and unpiggale pipelines.
The SmartBall tool is a multi-sensor inline inspection platform that collects a variety of pipeline data to help integrity departments manage their assets more efficiently and safely. The tool can be used for confirmation of containment to locate pinhole leaks that CPM cannot detect, continuous pressure and temperature profiles, and pipeline mapping.
Confirmation of containment surveys that can detect pinhole leaks are an important part of a best-in-class pipeline integrity and leak detection program.
Pinhole leaks represent a significant risk for pipeline operators. An unnoticed leak can cause major environmental damage before it is detected, and is a preliminary indicator that the pipeline may fail. Using an acoustic sensor, the SmartBall tool is capable of detecting pinhole leaks as small as 0.11 LPM (0.03 GPM). When paired with a CPM system, the SmartBall tool can eliminate the gaps in modern leak detection programs by locating small leaks that other systems will miss.
Regular confirmation of containment also allows the pipeline owner to confirm MFL results by ensuring none of the identified pits are 100% through wall. This can be done immediately following an ILI or as a routine check in the middle of an ILI cycle. Use of the SmartBall tool allows operators to build a complete integrity program that reduces pipeline risk.
Why Choose PureHM?
The SmartBall tool collects a variety of pipeline and condition data that complements existing integrity programs, all in a single deployment.
The SmartBall tool provides data that traditional integrity tools cannot; this data is crucial in the safe operation of pipelines.
Using the SmartBall tool contributes to a complete industry-leading integrity and leak detection program that limits risk and ensures pipelines are fit for service.
SmartBall Technology has been used for approximately 350 pipeline inspections ranging from 4-36 inches in diameter, totaling over 40,000 km (26,000 mi) in length.
Learn more about inline inspections and PureHM’s solutions.
Learn more about PureHM’s inline inspection solutions.
This white paper explores why confirmation of containment should be integrated into regular ILI programs.