Fluid Filled Cable Leak Detection

The use of Perfluorocarbon tracers (PFT's) to assist with cable leak detection was pioneered in the United States over a decade ago. The system has been used successfully and refined over time. The nature of the cables used varied widely from the US to Europe, as it varies widely within Europe itself.

PFT's have incredibly low background levels and are chemically stable, allowing them to be detected at very low levels.

A very small quantity of Perfluorocarbon tracer (PFT) is mixed with cable fluid (tagging) which is then degassed and pumped into the cable. Once it reaches the leak site it is detectable through atmospheric monitoring.

In many ways Utilise have taken a backwards step from the technology currently used elsewhere, believing that refinement that has taken place does not give the flexibility needed for application in the UK and Europe.

We have developed our own tagging and sampling systems, however use the latest analytical services. Our system is adaptable and robust, and dovetails with familiar cable infrastructure.

Results are provided to the engineers in the form of maps and pictorial reports, with the leak site identified on the picture itself, thus removing any requirement for interpretation. OS grid references are given and our engineers attend site to mark the position prior to excavation.

Many techniques have been put forward to address cable leaks in the past. These have only ever been partially successful or required de-energisation of the cable and excavation.

Our system allows the cable to remain energised throughout the location process and requires no excavation until the point of repair.

We offer the entire service on a "no win-no fee" basis, with a win being identification of the point at which oil exits the cable sheath to within 10m.