Detection of gas leaks

The systematic detection of gas leaks in the supply networks is essential for preventing gas explosions. The Electricity and Gas Authority requires that a set percentage of the supply networks be inspected. Specifically the entire low, medium and highpressure networks must be inspected within a maximum of 4 years. Also, a point system has been activated to evaluate the quality of the service provided to the customers.

The service

This service offered by CPL CONCORDIA augments the traditional detection techniques that are performed on foot with a more efficient service that uses vehicles equipped with instruments for detecting the presence of traces of methane gas in the air at a concentration of as little as 1 ppm (part per million).

These instruments, which are based on flame ionization technology, test the sensitivity level daily and allow even extremely small leaks to be located which could previously have been found only by means of very careful testing done on foot. The signaling system’s fast response time allows any presence of methane gas to be recorded within a few meters from where it is detected.

Locating the leaks

Each time the presence of gas is detected, a careful inspection will be made to establish whether there is actually a gas leak and to pinpoint its exact location. This phase is executed by making probe holes in the ground along the axis of the pipeline, the goal of which is to define the leak zone. The leak is most likely located near the hole that exhibits the highest concentration of methane gas.

A complete service

To achieve the highest degree of collaboration with its customers, CPL CONCORDIA has developed a program called SAFEGAS for recording the data. The purpose of this software is to record, program, and summarize all the obligatory activities. This software also gives CPL CONCORDIA the ability to deliver the complete documentation in paper form as well as a digitized record of the data necessary to produce the final declaration, thereby avoiding that the data be entered manually by the customer at a later date.

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