Neptune Oceanographics Ltd is a global leader in subsea pipeline leak detection services for the offshore oil and gas industry. The company places a strong emphasis on research and development, continually working to create more effective systems that improve detection success, reduce costs and minimise environmental impact.

Leak Detection Specialists

Neptune offers several methods of subsea leak detection, with the most widely used being long-range fluorescence and passive acoustics.

Traditionally, subsea pipeline leaks were identified by visually detecting the fluorescence of dyes under ‘black light’ (unfiltered ultraviolet [UV] light). However, this method had significant limitations, as it required high dye concentrations and very good visibility.

In 1999, Neptune introduced ‘tuned’ submersible fluorometers. These sensors greatly improved detection efficiency by overcoming many of the issues associated with black lights. Leak detection no longer depended on visual observation alone.

In early 2007, Neptune Oceanographics successfully launched its range of ‘Long Ranger’ fluorometric sensors. These advanced sensors can detect fluorescent dyes and crude oil remotely at distances of 5 metres or more, without the drawbacks of black lights or the need for direct contact with the leaking fluid.