---
title: Overcoming flare system integrity challenges with advanced leak detection
description: Improve leak detection with Tracerco’s tracer technology, ensuring safer operations, regulatory compliance, and efficiency in flare systems.
---

[News and Views from the Tracerco](https://blog.tracerco.com/marketing)

# [Overcoming flare system integrity challenges with advanced leak detection](https://blog.tracerco.com/marketing/industrial-leak-detection-tracer-technology)

 Written by [Nurhazirah MY](https://blog.tracerco.com/marketing/author/nurhazirah-my) | Apr 15, 2025, 4:11:46 AM

`High hydrogen sulphide (H2S) concentrations in flare systems pose significant operational and safety risks. To mitigate these risks, Tracerco conducted an advanced leak detection assessment on nine pressure safety valves (PSVs) within the Flare Header. The goal was to enhance safety, ensure regulatory compliance, and improve overall process efficiency using cutting-edge tracer technology and leak detection methodologies.`

## `Innovative leak detection with tracer technology`

Tracerco utilised radioisotope gas tracer injection and monitoring to identify leaks. This industry-leading approach involved:

### 1. Strategic detector placement

- Multiple detectors were positioned upstream and downstream to monitor tracer flow patterns.

### 2. Tracer injection

- Where possible, tracer was introduced through upstream bleeders into the high-pressure process side.

### 3. Real-time monitoring

- The detectors tracked tracer gas movement, with downstream signals indicating potential leaks.

### 4. Data-driven analysis

- Leak rates were calculated based on gas tracer velocity. Significant flow in theoretically stagnant piping confirmed valve leaks.

## `Key findings: Identifying valve integrity issues`

Leak tests were performed on nine valves, revealing critical insights:

### Valves confirmed with leaks

1\. RV A  
Flow rate: 0.033 ft/s (149 ft³/hr)  
Leak detected: Yes  
Analysis: Leakage confirmed by tracer presence at multiple monitoring points.

2\. PV A  
Flow rate: 0.244 ft/s (177 ft³/hr)  
Leak detected: Yes  
Analysis: Tracer detected at all monitoring locations, verifying leakage.

3\. RV B  
Flow rate: 0.500 ft/s (361 ft³/hr)  
Leak detected: Yes  
Analysis: Rapid downstream detection indicated a significant leak.

4\. PV B  
Flow rate: Too low to calculate                                                                                                                                      
Leak detected: Yes  
Analysis: Tracer present in header but moving slowly and diffusing. Small leakage detected.

### Valves Confirmed with No Leaks

1\. RV C  
Leak detected: No  
Analysis: No tracer movement beyond expected locations.

2\. RV D  
Leak detected: No  
Analysis: No tracer movement beyond expected locations.

3\. PV C  
Leak detected: No  
Analysis: No tracer movement beyond expected locations.

4\. RV E  
Leak detected: No  
Analysis: No tracer movement beyond expected locations.

5\. RV F  
Leak detected: No  
Analysis: No tracer movement beyond expected locations.

## `Enhancing industrial safety with advanced leak detection`

The use of tracer technology in Tracerco’s leak detection process provided actionable insights for maintenance teams. Identifying four leaking valves helped mitigate the risks associated with of excessive H2S emissions, ensuring a safer working environment and compliance with industry regulations.

## `Proactive maintenance for long-yerm operational safety`

Tracerco utilised radioisotope gas tracer injection and monitoring to pinpoint and quantify leaks. This industry-leading approach minimises downtime and prevents hazardous incidents, reinforcing a proactive approach to industrial safety and efficiency.

 

<https://tracerco.com/downloads/case-studies/tracerco-diagnostics-flow-studies-on-offshore-flare-systems/>Have questions concerning this article? Complete the form below this blog for more details.

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