Underground Diesel Pipeline Leak Detection for Mining Infrastructure
Commercial Leak Detection was engaged to locate multiple leaks within a newly installed underground diesel pipeline at the Covalent Lithium Mine in Western Australia.
During commissioning, pressure testing identified a significant pressure loss across approximately 3 kilometres of underground diesel pipeline, preventing the system from being commissioned and delaying the project.
With the pipeline forming a critical part of the mine’s fuel infrastructure, accurate leak detection was essential to allow repairs to be completed quickly while avoiding unnecessary excavation across the entire pipeline.
Project Detail
The Challenge
Commissioning pressure tests confirmed the newly installed diesel pipeline was unable to maintain pressure, indicating one or more hidden underground leaks.
Given the length of the pipeline and the absence of any visible surface evidence, traditional excavation would have been extremely costly, time-consuming and impractical.
Commercial Leak Detection was engaged to accurately locate each underground leak using advanced non-destructive leak detection technology before excavation commenced.
Safe Mine Site Mobilisation
Before commencing work, our technicians completed all required mine site inductions, safety training, drug and alcohol screening and site onboarding procedures.
Once authorised to access the project, we mobilised with our specialist tracer gas leak detection equipment and worked closely with the commissioning contractor throughout the investigation.
Multiple Underground Leaks Located
The first underground leak was successfully identified and accurately marked for excavation.
Following repairs, the commissioning contractor repeated pressure testing. Additional pressure loss was still present, confirming further leaks existed within the pipeline.
Over the following days, Commercial Leak Detection continued the investigation, locating three additional underground diesel pipeline leaks.
Each leak was:
- Precisely located
- Marked for excavation
- Repaired by the contractor
- Pressure tested before progressing to the next section
This systematic approach ensured every leak was identified before final commissioning.
Successful Project Outcome
Following repairs to all identified leaks, the underground diesel pipeline successfully passed final pressure testing.
The commissioning contractor was able to place the pipeline into service, allowing the project to continue towards operational status.
By accurately locating each leak rather than excavating large sections of the pipeline, significant time, excavation costs and project delays were avoided.
Why Mining Companies Choose Commercial Leak Detection
Commercial Leak Detection provides specialist leak detection services for mining, industrial and commercial infrastructure throughout Western Australia.
Using advanced tracer gas technology, acoustic leak detection and underground utility locating, we accurately locate hidden pipeline leaks while minimising excavation and disruption to site operations.
Whether investigating diesel pipelines, water pipelines, process pipework or underground services, our experienced technicians deliver precise leak locations that allow repairs to be completed efficiently.
Related Services
Whether you’re dealing with a hidden water leak, gas leak or fire main leak, Commercial Leak Detectors provides accurate non-destructive leak detection services across Western Australia.
Explore our Water Leak Detection, Gas Leak Detection, and Fire Main Leak Detection services to learn how we help commercial, industrial and mining clients quickly locate underground leaks while minimising excavation and downtime.