Pipeline Inspection
1.0 Inspection of the Gas Pipeline Network
In 2015, Laboratorijski sistemi d.o.o. completed the accreditation assessment for its gas pipeline network inspection system according to the DVGW G465/1 standard and received the first accreditation of this kind in the Republic of Slovenia. This service is primarily intended for the inspection of natural gas networks of distributors, but with a specialized method, it is also applicable for the inspection of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) networks. In 2023, we also obtained an operational permit for flying Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in the special category. The inspection includes:
- Review of cadastral data on the location, dimensions, and specifics of the gas network,
- Analysis of previous findings from the systematic inspection,
- Preparation of measures for handling critical findings,
- Leak detection by walking systematic inspection of main pipelines,
- Leak detection by walking systematic inspection of residential gas pipelines,
- Visual inspection of gas pipelines,
- Preparation of reports with GPS data alignment,
- Preparation of proposed measures to ensure compliance,
- Development of an inspection plan for the next period,
- Issuance of an inspection report and certificate.
Following the review and preparation of input data and a project in specialized software, we carry out the operational part of the inspection, which covers the entire gas pipeline network from the exit at the MRP (gas transfer point) to the residential connection pipelines.
We have developed the following methods for pipeline inspection:
- Manual Pipeline Inspection with a Portable System with Special Gas Detection Device: We exclusively use top-quality devices designed for such inspections, manufactured by Hermann Sewerin GmbH, Gütersloh, Germany. These devices record the location and concentration of any detected gas leaks. This method is mainly used for inspecting main, transmission, and connection pipelines.
- Pipeline Inspection with a Specialized Vehicle: The vehicle is equipped with a device that, through bell-shaped probes mounted on the front of the vehicle, collects air and analyzes it for the presence of gas. The device is operated via computer software, which records measurement data and location. This method is primarily used for inspecting main pipelines, where larger gas leaks can be quickly located. For mobile systematic inspection of buried gas pipelines, we have selected what we believe to be the most advanced system, the Laser Gas Patroller LGP 800, manufactured by Hermann Sewerin GmbH, Gütersloh, Germany.
