Keeping the UK’s energy infrastructure running efficiently requires constant monitoring and maintenance, though reaching the infrastructure to inspect and perform the necessary repairs can be the most challenging part of the process.
ENA know that finding ways to innovate how necessary repair works are identified is something many in the industry are prioritizing.
LeakVISION is a patented in-pipe leakage detection sensor, mounted to a robot base or push-rod camera system. This system is used for the inspection of in-pipe features to highlight potential areas of interest, including leakages from pipeline features, such as joints, connections and defects.
The novel sensor visualises leakage and, in a sci-fi touch, it uses heat-seeking vision that can identify the precise point of leakage.
Compared to other methods for spotting repairs, LeakVISION provides detailed information and is quick to deploy on-site, speeding up how leakages are detected and repaired.
Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North East, has received £78,000 of Ofgem SIF funding to trial thermal imagery and robotics for assessing the pressure condition of pipes, exploring internal characteristics and simulate change impacts.
The system was developed during a collaborative project alongside NGN and Synovate, whilst also working with the Energy Innovation Centre and a consortium of innovators.
Leakage identification, modelling and field trials made up the first phase of the project, with trials set to continue in order to gather further data and address any challenges to a rollout across the network. Insights into the ongoing project will be shared at the Summit.
LeakVISION is just one of the projects which will be showcased at the forthcoming Energy Innovation Summit. With less than one week to go, this in-person event will showcase learning from over 60 UK innovation projects, demonstrate the value of innovation in every aspect of our energy systems, and help drive action on the next generation of innovative projects across the sector.
By attending this event, you will:
- Have access to 15+ sessions across two days
- Hear from more than 75 expert speakers
- Visit the interactive exhibition with over 35 partner and exhibition stands
- Connect with likeminded people during any of the six networking sessions
- Have a range of networking opportunities, including dedicated receptions and lunches across the two days
You can find out more and register to attend on our website.
About Energy Networks Association
Energy Networks Association (ENA) is the industry body representing the electricity wires, gas pipes and energy system in the UK and Ireland.
ENA helps its members meet the challenge of delivering electricity and gas to communities across the UK and Ireland safely, sustainably and reliably.
Its members include every major electricity and gas network operator in the UK and Ireland, independent operators, National Grid ESO which operates the electricity system in Great Britain and National Gas which operates the gas system in Great Britain. Its affiliate membership also includes companies with an interest in energy, including Heathrow Airport and Network Rail.
What are energy network operators?
Energy network operators manage and maintain the wires, pipes and other infrastructure which delivers electricity and gas to your home, business and community. They are private companies which are regulated by Ofgem and employ around 40,000 people in Great Britain.