Pipeline transport is the transportation of goods or material through a pipe. At the last count, the CIA Factbook reports that there are just over 2 million miles of pipeline currently in commission throughout the world with many more miles planned or already under construction.
Though any chemically stable substance can be transported through a pipeline, they are most commonly used to carry oils and gases, sewage, slurry, water and beer.
Pipelines carrying flammable or explosive materials such as natural gas or oil, present major safety concerns and have been responsible for many accidents and deaths over the years[1].
What are the Risks?
Due to the nature of their cargo, pipelines carrying gases and oils can be naturally volatile and are, therefore, at risk of explosion. However, pipelines can also be subjected to vandalism, sabotage and even terrorist attacks.
Pipelines, pumps and other aspects of pipeline transport systems can also be subject to wear and tear. If they are not regularly maintained or develop a fault, a fire could easily break out.
Mechanical or electrical equipment can also develop faults, become overloaded or overheat.
What are the Challenges?
Pipelines and their associated stations are often located in challenging environments such as power stations, oil refineries and ship and marine terminals.
Therefore, the selection of appropriate fire detection technology is essential, especially as factors such as sunlight and flare reflections may render some detector types ineffective or cause false alarms.
What is the Solution?
Linear heat detection can provide efficient and reliable detection for applications similar to pumps and pipelines. Heat sensing cables can be installed around equipment that is at risk of fire and along pipelines to ensure maximum protection.
FyreLine Linear Heat Detection
A FyreLine linear heat detection system is capable of detecting fire, or excess heat, at any point along the length of its heat sensing cable. This means that the location of fire can be accurately identified to ensure a quick response.
FyreLine digital
FyreLine digital offers fixed heat detection and is available with temperature ratings of; 68°C, 88°C, 105°C or 185°C. Once the cable reaches its rated temperature, an alarm signal is sent to the fire alarm control panel.
FyreLine Analogue
FyreLine analogue provides both alarm and pre-alarm warnings. Once the cable reaches it predefined pre-alarm temperature, the control module triggers a warning allowing the user to investigate the incident. A full alarm will only be triggered if the temperature reaches a specified alarm point.
FyreLine Linear Heat Cable Coatings
FyreLine heat sensing cable is available with a number of different coatings to ensure maximum protection in a range of different environments. This means that FyreLine can be adapted to suit every aspect of a pipeline transport system.
PVC Coated Sensing Cable
PVC coating is the standard coating provided with FyreLine heat sensing cable and is suitable for most environments. However, it should not be used if the cable is likely to be exposed to hazardous chemicals or direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time or where the cable may be exposed to mechanical abrasion.
Nylon Coated Sensing Cable
Nylon coated sensing cable provides UV protection and is, therefore, suitable for use in direct sunlight. It is slightly more hardwearing than PVC coating and can withstand slight mechanical abrasion. Nylon is also suitable for areas where hazardous hydrocarbons such as fuel oils, diesel and kerosene are present. This makes a nylon coating ideal for most areas of a pipeline transport system.
Stainless Steel Braid Coated Sensing Cable
Any of the above cables can be further protected with stainless steel braiding. This offers increased protection for areas where the cable may be subject to mechanical abrasion or accidental damage.
High Temperature Coated Sensing Cable
High temperature coated sensing cable offers both high-temperature protection and chemical protection. High temperature coated cable is most commonly used in high-temperature, hazardous and safe areas where chemicals may be present.
For more information about the FyreLine Linear Heat Detection System, or to discuss any of the other products that Eurofyre have to offer, please feel free to get in touch either by phone on +44 (0) 1329 835 024, by email to [email protected] or via the online enquiry form situated on our contact page.
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source: wikipedia.org