Fiber optic products were invented to carry big amounts of voice data over long distances very efficiently. Improvements in fiber optic pipeline monitoring have led to the fact that now we know fiber optic cables as an actual sensor. This fbg sensor is equipped with the ability to measure parameters such as acoustic energy, temperature, strain, vibration, and suchlike. The capability of continuously gathering data about these parameters over several kilometers of fiber simultaneously is called distributed monitoring. Fiber pipeline leak detection and prevention, asset and perimeter security, and precise fluid flow measurements.
Pipelines are very efficient and safe means of transportation. The number of leaks could be reduced since the early ’70s of the last century due to improved design and maintenance procedures as well as improved materials, but leaks still appear. Most of these are originated by external causes such as digging excavators or slope movements despite intensive pipeline right of way surveillance by foot, car, and out of the air. These events are a clear sign for a monitoring gap. The technical evolution of fiber optic products allows closing large parts of this monitoring gap.
Pipelines are part of the backbone of modern communities’ lifestyles and are absolutely indispensable for the transportation of water, gas, oil, and all kinds of products. Fiber optic devices are standard equipment for the transmission of voice, video, and other data. Fiber optic systems are frequently installed along pipelines and often used to enable communication between and remote control of the individual station of the system. The same standard optical fibers are suitable to measure several physical effects with high absolute and local accuracy.
Fiber optic products are almost ideal for many types of fiber optic pipeline monitoring applications and several of these applications have been implemented during recent years all over the industry. So here are some examples:
- Leak detection
- Ground movement detection and Structural health monitoring
- Third-party activities
- Fire detection
- Power cable and Transformer monitoring
- Status monitoring of water mains
- Pig position detection
In other words, many different applications have already been implemented in the industry and constantly ideas for new applications are being created.
Optromix, Inc. is a U.S. manufacturer of innovative fiber optic products for the global market, based in Cambridge, MA. Our team always strives to provide the most technologically advanced fiber optic solutions for our clients. Our main goal is to deliver the best quality fiber optic products to our clients. We produce a wide range of fiber optic devices, including our cutting-edge customized fiber optic Bragg grating product line and fiber Bragg grating sensor systems. Optromix, Inc. is a top choice among the manufacturers of fiber optic monitoring systems. If you have any questions, please contact us at info@optromix.com