Protecting long-distance pipeline infrastructure presents a unique challenge, particularly in areas with active construction and third-party activity. For Guangdong Natural Gas Group (GDNGG), the risk of accidental damage during the construction of a new 145 km pipeline section required a proactive, real-time monitoring solution.
Bandweaver delivered a fiber optic Pipeline Intrusion Detection System (PIDS) based on Horizon Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), utilising existing telecoms fiber along the pipeline route. The system continuously monitors acoustic activity, enabling the detection of both manual and mechanical excavation near the pipeline, with precise event localisation and real-time alerts to a central monitoring centre.
Through careful system design, calibration, and algorithm tuning, the solution exceeded performance requirements, detecting excavation activity beyond specified distances while maintaining a high verification rate. Within the first two months of operation, 96 events were detected, with over 90% confirmed as genuine construction activity, allowing rapid intervention by patrol teams.
By providing continuous, long-range monitoring and early warning of third-party interference, the system significantly reduces the risk of pipeline damage, helping operators prevent costly incidents and maintain the safety and integrity of critical energy infrastructure.