Structural stresses and leaks along the transmission and high-pressure gas pipeline system operated by Southern California Gas Company will be monitored by fiber optic cable technology.

Fiber optic strands can transmit data across long distances, providing early warning of pressure changes or vibrations that could indicate a leak or damage to the gas line. The technology quickly detects when abnormal stress, movement, or temperature conditions occur.

Fiber optic cable on top of gas pipeline. Credit: Southern California Gas CompanyContinuous monitoring and measurement will help the company quickly identify threats to a pipeline from heavy equipment operation, unexpected earth movement, or physical impact. Information sent within seconds along the fiber cable to a remote monitoring station can pinpoint where a potential problem may be developing within 20 feet.

The early warning system works on the principle that light signals vary when a fiber optic cable is exposed to vibration, stress, or an abnormal change in temperature. Operators interpret these signal changes and determine the type of threat posed and the precise location along the continuous length of cable. In some cases, operators will be able to distinguish hand digging and routine traffic from heavy equipment use near the pipeline.