New Wireless Hydrocarbon Leak Detection System

Detecting early hydrocarbon leaks has never been that easy. Smart Sensor Technology (Spain) has developed a wireless hydrocarbon leak detection system that could be easily installed in monitoring wells from 2” up.

Facilities storing large amounts of hydrocarbons (as fuel stations, bulk storages or refineries) are at risk of suffering leakage, causing environmental impact, risks of fire, and damages in the brand image. All that will definitely have a big impact in the company performance.

The new device developed by SST works with a wireless sensor that floats in the air-water interface of the monitoring well, and which physical-chemical properties are modified by the presence of hydrocarbons. The sensor is connected to a transmitter at the top of the well that broadcasts once a day (or any desired period). The signal can be visualised in any computer or mobile phone. That way any leak will be detected before it is too late, avoiding expensive environmental remediation costs.

This system features some competitive advantages in: Price: it is affordable, since no civil works are needed; Time: it takes no longer than 10 minutes to get the device installed and working; Reliability: no false alarms, the sensor will only activate the alarm by the presence of hydrocarbons; Remote communication: the system sends communication once a day (or the desired period); No wires: completely wireless installation up to 1 km; Durability: 7 years lasting battery, Proofs: a sample of the contaminating liquid is retained by the sensor, Reusing: the sensor can be replaced and reused; and ATEX certification and IP68 protection.

Smart Sensor Technology (SST) has developed an effective, low cost, high reliability device, that will allow the industry to detect hydrocarbon leaks in its early stage avoiding the costs of environmental remediation, fines and loss of reputation.