Fibre Optic Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) methods have been successfully applied to many processes in the oil & gas industry. This non-intrusive sensing system proves invaluable in the monitoring of LNG pipelines both for cool down at commissioning, for temperature profiling during operation and as a leak detection system. There is ongoing work in the use of fibre optic DTS systems in the development of smart cryogenic hoses for the transfer of LNG and storage and piping systems aboard floating LNG vessels. Developments in LNG pipes include multi-layer insulated piping systems. This contribution presents recent studies in the use of fibre optic distributed sensors for temperature profiling and leak detection in multi-layer insulated LNG pipes. Industrial applications of fibre optic distributed temperature sensors (DTS) include the use of DTS systems as an early warning system, allowing operators to act swiftly in the event of a breach in LNG containment as a part of the safety management system as well as provide a real time temperature profiling during loading, offloading and cool down cycles. This paper also discusses a recently installed Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL 2) rated leak detection system based on fibre optic distributed temperature sensing (DTS) method in a UK LNG importation plant.
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