API 1130 & API 1160 SCADA-Based Leak Detection
Understand leak detection methods, API 1130 requirements, CPM system design, and sensitivity-reliability tradeoffs
The minimum detectable leak rate (MDLR) is the smallest leak that a pipeline leak detection system can reliably identify under steady-state conditions. For SCADA-based computational pipeline monitoring (CPM) systems per API 1130, typical MDLR ranges from 1-5% of nominal flow rate, depending on instrument accuracy, SCADA scan rate, and pipeline operating conditions.
API 1130 is the American Petroleum Institute standard for Computational Pipeline Monitoring for Liquids. It provides guidance on the design, implementation, testing, and operation of CPM leak detection systems that use SCADA data (flow, pressure, temperature) combined with mathematical models to detect leaks in hazardous liquid pipelines.