Pipeline Leak Detection
Pipeline leaks are more than a maintenance issue — they threaten public safety, damage the environment, disrupt operations, and create costly liabilities for operators. At American Pipeline Solutions (APS), we help operators prevent, detect, and resolve leaks through a proven combination of pipeline pigging, inspection, cleaning, and condition assessment.
Where others rely solely on high-tech sensors, APS emphasizes a hands-on, process-driven approach rooted in decades of field experience. Our services ensure your pipelines remain safe, efficient, and compliant with today’s strict industry standards.
Why Pipeline Leak Detection Matters?
Leaks can occur in any pressure pipe system, whether it transports water, oil, gas, chemicals, or wastewater. Left undetected, even a small leak can:
Compromise worker and community safety
Contaminate soil and water sources
Damage property and infrastructure
Trigger regulatory penalties and lawsuits
Increase product loss and operational costs
An effective pipeline leak detection program is not optional — it is a critical safeguard that protects lives, assets, and reputations.
American Pipeline Solutions’ Leak Detection Process
At APS, the most reliable way to maintain pipeline integrity starts with pigging the pipeline. Pigging allows us to:
Remove buildup, sediment, and debris through pipeline cleaning
Prepare the pipe for accurate pipeline inspection
Deploy intelligent pigs for condition assessment
Detect and localize leaks using multiple proven methods
By starting with a clean, prepared pipeline, we can ensure every leak detection, inspection, and assessment step delivers accurate results.
Now that the pipeline is free of any debris or obstructions, APS can begin the leak detection process. The smart tool and equipment that APS uses in leak detection vary based on the type of pipeline. One unique tool that APS uses is known as the i2i smart pig. This smart pig is run through the pipeline one to two times. APS then verifies the data that is gathered during this leak detection process.
Using the verified data, APS performs an in-depth analysis of the pipeline system. First, APS provides a baseline summary of the pipeline that outlines the initial findings of the data collected. Once an in-depth analysis is complete, APS can provide more detailed results of the leak detection process. In addition, APS can provide clients with a video that shows the expected lifespan of each length of their pipeline overlaid on Google Maps.
Pipeline Leak Detection Methods
APS uses a blend of field-tested and industry-proven methods to detect leaks quickly and accurately while minimizing false alarms.
Inline Inspection (Smart Pigging)
Intelligent pigs equipped with sensors travel inside the pipeline to identify leaks, cracks, corrosion, and wall thinning. This pipeline inspection method provides precise condition data, supporting both leak detection and long-term asset management.
Hydrostatic Testing
Pipelines are pressurized with water to assess integrity. A pressure drop may indicate leakage or weakness in the pipe wall.
Acoustic & Pressure Monitoring
Using sensitive instruments, we detect sound waves and pressure fluctuations associated with fluid escaping from the pipe.
Condition Assessment & Verification
Every leak detection effort is supported by a complete pipeline condition assessment, giving operators a full picture of system health — not just a single leak point.
Industries We Serve
Leaks pose different risks across industries. APS tailors our pipeline leak detection and inspection services to the unique needs of each system.
Oil & Gas Pipelines
Undetected leaks in crude oil or natural gas pipelines can lead to explosions, environmental disasters, and millions in fines. Our pigging and inspection services provide operators with accurate leak location data and compliance support.
Municipal Water Systems
From trunk mains to distribution lines, water utilities face the challenge of detecting leaks that cause water loss, property damage, and public health risks. APS offers pressure pipe inspection and leak detection for potable water and wastewater systems.
Wastewater & Sewer Pipelines
Sewer leaks can contaminate the environment and create regulatory violations. Our inspection and leak detection methods help municipalities avoid costly emergencies.
Chemical Pipelines
Chemical leaks can be catastrophic to both people and the environment. We provide thorough pipeline condition assessment and continuous inspection strategies to mitigate risks.
Industrial & Manufacturing Pipelines
Facilities that rely on process pipelines need assurance against leaks that disrupt production. APS provides regular inspection and testing to prevent downtime.
Pipeline Integrity Beyond Leak Detection
Leak detection is one piece of the puzzle. APS delivers a complete approach to pipeline integrity that includes:
Pipeline Cleaning – Pigging removes scale, wax, debris, and obstructions that contribute to leaks and flow inefficiencies.
Pipeline Inspection – Smart pigs, cameras, and hydrostatic testing provide real-time insight into pipe condition.
Condition Assessment – We evaluate wall thickness, corrosion levels, and structural health to plan proactive maintenance.
Pipeline Rehabilitation & Lining – For aging systems, APS offers solutions like epoxy lining or mechanical repair to extend service life.
This full-service pipeline integrity management approach makes APS a trusted partner across industries.
Compliance & Safety
APS services align with industry regulations and safety standards, helping operators meet requirements set by organizations such as:
PHMSA (Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration)
EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)
Local and state environmental agencies
Our team emphasizes worker safety, environmental protection, and operational reliability at every stage of the pipeline leak detection and inspection process.
Why Choose APS for Leak Detection?
Hands-on expertise – Our team brings decades of field experience in pigging, inspection, and pipeline assessment.
Proven process – Starting with pigging ensures accuracy in every inspection and leak detection.
Comprehensive approach – We don’t just find leaks; we help you understand pipeline condition and plan next steps.
U.S.-based and safety-first – We’re a local partner with national reach, built on trust and integrity.
Custom solutions – Every pipeline is different, and we tailor methods to fit your system’s needs.
Partner with APS for Reliable Leak Detection
Pipeline leaks can’t be left to chance. With American Pipeline Solutions, you get a partner who combines pipeline pigging, inspection, cleaning, and condition assessment into a comprehensive, safety-first program.
Whether you operate municipal water systems, oil and gas pipelines, chemical lines, or industrial process systems, APS delivers leak detection and integrity management you can rely on.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect the safety, performance, and future of your pipeline infrastructure.
Are you in need of effective pipeline leak detection services?
Contact American Pipeline Solutions today to learn how our pipeline leak detection services can benefit your pipeline systems.
