Nitor Technologies Inc. -- Company News

Company News

Nitor is on the PROWL for Perfect Pipelines

By: Kristen Sabol
[Pittsburgh TEQ Magazine, Volume Nine, Issues Nine]

Of the more than 1.9 million miles of pipeline in the U.S. transporting gas and other hazardous chemicals, approximately 67 percent of pipelines are 40 or more years old. While underground shifting can cause pipelines to crack, aging pipeline systems constitute a larger concern. The leading causes of gas leaks include corrosion and general wear and tear. In light of these conditions, Beaver Falls-based startup, Nitor Technologies, has developed the PROWLER system — a patented leak-detection and location system designed to help solve the major concerns of today’s pipeline operators while protecting local communities.

PROWLER’s ultimate aim is summed up in its full, formal title: “Protect & Reclaim Our Water, Land and Environmental Resources.” The technology behind PROWLER was originally developed in the early 1980s by German physicist, Dr. Wolfgang Issel, under the sponsorship of the German Ministry of Research. Issel’s technology passed hands a number of times but became best known as LASP technology — the Leak Alarm System for Pollutants. Nitor Technologies purchased the rights to LASP in 2001 and began revamping it. According to Michael Orlando, Field Engineer with Nitor Technologies, LASP mistakenly acquired a bad reputation in the mid-1990s. Poor product follow-up, maintenance and a general lack of upgrade advising by prior companies owning the technology contributed to the technology’s downfall. “Our new PROWLER is a top-of-the-line product,” said Orlando. “And we’re doing everything we can to reestablish interest in this technology’s capabilities by firmly demonstrating a stronger commitment to product management,” says Orlando.

Nitor Technologies has been fully operational since 2002. The company currently employs about 10. PROWLER’s hydrocarbon-based detection system offers three distinct advantages. First, it can detect a leak as small as 0.04 gallons per hour (gph) and accurately locate the leak within 10 feet of its location. “This is very cost effective as it allows line repairmen to hone in on the problem area rather than digging up hundreds of yards blindly,” says Orlando. The system can also be calibrated to test against the background of the existing environment. Ground content is measured against leak conditions to ensure that normal trace substances do not set off false alarms. The water table also does not matter, making it possible to install tubing in aqueous situations.

Due to new EPA regulations, everyone operating pipes will be required to do a baseline assessment test proving that their lines are not leaking or falling apart. Most assessment results will not be due until 2008; however, companies operating pipes in highly concentrated areas must comply by 2004.

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