AUTOMATED OIL AND GAS PIPELINE VANDALISM DETECTION SYSTEM

This project aims to develop an Automated Oil and Gas Pipeline Vandalization Detection System designed to provide around-the-clock protection for buried pipelines. The primary objective is to create a system that detects pipeline vandalization attempts early, allowing authorities sufficient time to intervene and prevent damage. The system's design incorporates specialized sensing units deployed along the pipeline route to continuously monitor earth vibrations. Unlike traditional methods that require physical sensors attached directly to pipelines, this approach utilizes geophones to detect vibrations indicative of vandalization attempts. These vibrations are processed and analyzed to differentiate between routine ground disturbances and potential vandalization activities. The absence of direct sensor contacts with the pipeline itself makes installation easier and less invasive, while real-time data transmission to a centralized monitoring system ensures that any unauthorized activity is detected promptly. The results from live tests conducted at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE) in Effurun, Nigeria, demonstrate the system's effectiveness in detecting potential threats. The system's data indicates a high level of accuracy in identifying vandalization-related vibrations, with minimal false alarms. Analysis of the collected data confirms the system's reliability, ease of implementation, and suitability for deployment in vulnerable areas. This automated solution presents a promising advancement in safeguarding oil and gas pipelines, offering a proactive approach to addressing the longstanding issue of pipeline vandalization.