Enhancing Sensitivity-Accuracy in Leak Detection Systems: A Comprehensive Study Applied to Section 1 of the North-Peruvian Oil Pipeline (NPOP)

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Real-Time Transient Model (RTTM) for leak detection in Section I of the Norperuvian Pipeline (ONP). Through advanced hydraulic simulations, critical operational scenarios, such as sudden flow variations, high-density batch transitions, and small leaks, were analyzed to identify characteristic patterns and optimize system configuration. The results indicate that the RTTM can detect leaks as small as 0.125 inches within 30 minutes using 6-minute time steps; however, 60-minute time steps provide greater stability in transient scenarios with extended response times. This analysis also assessed the influence of dynamic configurations aimed at enhancing system sensitivity, improving performance under more complex operational conditions. The study highlights the importance of volume balance (VB) as a useful tool for improving the sensitivity of such monitoring systems, adding value to the design of methodologies that can be replicated and/or applied to other transportation systems, ultimately contributing to the minimization of environmental and operational risks in critical infrastructure.