Global oil producer implements advanced AI vision technology for leak detection across US facilities

Global Oil Producer Implements Advanced AI Vision Technology for Leak Detection Across US Facilities

A leading global oil producer and distributor has successfully integrated an advanced AI-powered vision technology across its US-based aboveground facilities to enhance early-stage leak detection. This initiative comes in response to the company’s need for a solution capable of detecting leaks at a threshold much lower than traditional non-visual systems like mass balance and pressure monitoring.

Implementation and Partnership

The company embarked on this technological upgrade in collaboration with IntelliView, a provider known for its AI-driven thermal and colour camera-based leak detection systems. The partnership, which began with the validation and testing of IntelliView’s first-generation system, has since evolved significantly. Following the fruitful outcomes of the initial phase, the company proceeded with the deployment of 20 units of IntelliView’s second generation DCAM system across various Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) facilities.

Building on the positive impacts observed, the collaboration expanded to include the development and deployment of the explosion-proof DCAMEx units for offshore platforms. This integration heralded a standardisation of IntelliView’s solutions within the company’s operational footprint, positioning IntelliView as a key partner in their vision-based leak detection strategy.

The partnership further advanced with the introduction of the DCAM II system, which is noted for its enhanced energy efficiency. This development garnered the 2023 Gulf Energy Information Excellence Best HSE Contribution – Midstream award, underscoring its significance within the industry.

Significant Outcomes and Benefits

Currently, over 100 IntelliView systems are operational, providing monitoring services across the company’s US and international sites, including pump stations, pigging stations, terminals, block valve sites, refineries, and well pads. The AI-powered systems offer several critical advantages:

• Enhanced Leak Detection: The systems enable detection of leaks far below the thresholds identified by conventional methods.
• Rapid Alarm Verification: Alarms can be visually verified in under a minute, eliminating the need for immediate field visits.
• Minimised False Alarms: There is a substantial reduction in false alarms, attributed to the system’s ability to differentiate between environmental noises and actual leaks.
• Remote Monitoring: The AI systems facilitate remote alarm verification and visual inspections, reducing the risks associated with site inspections, particularly in hazardous weather conditions.
• Cost Efficiency: The streamlined approach results in considerable financial savings from reduced field trips and lower personnel requirements, alongside averting potential $15 million clean-up costs related to leakages.

This implementation not only bolsters the oil producer’s operational efficiency but also enhances safety measures within its infrastructure, minimizing environmental and operational risks. The integration of IntelliView’s systems marks a significant milestone in adopting AI-driven solutions across the oil and gas industry.

Source: Noah Wire Services