Infrasonic Frequency Seismic Sensor System for Pipeline Integrity Management

Physical Sciences, Inc. in cooperation with the NYSEARCH committee of the North East Gas Association proposes to develop an infrasonic gas pipeline evaluation network that uses low frequency seismic/acoustic (0.1 to 100 Hz) sensor technology to proactively detect and warn of unauthorized activity near underground gas pipelines before damage occurs, thereby preventing third party damage and subsequent pipeline leaks or failure. This technology will detect and locate digging in the vicinity of the transmission pipe, but it does not need to be located along the entire service or main. Rather, multiple point sensors are placed in the ground near the pipe at ~1 km separation. We have already demonstrated the basic feasibility of the concept, and we propose to quantify its performance during the Phase I program. If successful, this technology would result in great savings through better detection and prevention. Moreover, it could be installed at much less cost than sensors that must be co-located along the entire length of the pipeline. The overall cost and safety benefits of detecting impending damage, are readily apparent. The proposed infrasonic detection technology provides low sensor cost, low network cost, simple installation, and can be retrofit to existing systems.