Service Spotlight: iota® Enhanced Leak Detection

What is iota® Enhanced Leak Detection (ELD)?

The iota® non-volumetric leak testing method is ideal for testing newly installed systems and locating suspected leaks in double-walled piping systems of any scale. This technology was developed and patented by CGRS specifically for leak testing primary piping and tanks that are secondarily contained. Those who are designing or installing new double-walled fuel systems depend on our technicians to ensure that all quality control benchmarks are met.

Our experienced iota® technicians are highly skilled in the fine art of leak delineation. They can locate leaks in sumps, primary and secondary product piping, vapor/vent lines vacuum monitoring equipment, tank top fittings, flex connections and even tank primaries.

Although the iota® technology was developed primarily for quality control testing on fueling systems, it is also applicable for testing and certifying other types of critical piping systems at various vapor-tight leak-rate testing standards.

If you notice product dripping from your piping secondary, call us. We’ll find the leak!

Call a CGRS Expert:
800.288.2657

Chris Murphy - Environmental Consulting Company - CGRS

Chris Murphy
CA ELD Manager
Mobile: 916.212.0454

A Little History:

Our path to developing iota® began twenty years ago, in 2003, when the enhanced leak detection requirement for new installations went into effect in the California market. Newly installed fuel systems and tanks within proximity of water wells are tested to a leak rate of 0.005 gph. We started out using Tracer® and using helium for pre-testing.

CGRS then started down the path of developing its own advanced methodology for tank testing. The first method (iota® VaporTite™ V005) is designed for tanks and piping. The second (iotaVision™ L005) is designed for double-walled brine tanks.

When the leak detection requirement was initially imposed, it was met with some resistance.  However, once installers and equipment manufacturers recognized the benefits of locating leaks and other problems early, the testing requirement was viewed as a positive, cost-saving measure for their customers, and for the environment.

iota® VaporTite™ V005 is a non-volumetric tank tightness test method. This testing method is utilized for new installations prior to any product being introduced into the system and can identify leaks at or below 0.005 gallons per hour to verify whether it is vapor tight.  In states like California, this testing threshold is a regulatory standard.

The V005 method can be used for pre- and final tests.

iotaVision™ L005 is designed for testing underground storage tanks that have brine-filled interstitial spaces between the primary and secondary walls of the tank. This method is the first of its kind to be recognized by the California Water Boards for detecting leaks in these types of tanks. This method has the added bonus of providing visual access to the interior of tanks, which allows verification of the absence of debris, and provides an opportunity to address a variety of concerns that would otherwise be difficult to ascertain.

It is advisable to schedule a petroleum-repair contractor at the same time as the iota® technician to assist with system purging, isolation, and repairs.

Fun Facts:

  • These testing methods may allow for testing without excavation, potentially saving thousands of dollars!
  • With two decades of experience in providing leak-detection services, CGRS is highly qualified to address your tank testing needs.
  • Finding leaks that are at or below 0.005 gallons per hour, could be compared with finding a needle in an exceptionally large haystack—or finding a BB in a football field!
  • Both methods can be referenced on the NWGLDE’s listing (that’s the National Work Group of the Leak Detection Evaluations).
  • Both methods are recognized as accepted testing methods by the California State Water Resources Control Board.

For a more in-depth look at how these testing methods work and how they can be utilized, please visit the California EPA State Water Resources Control Board website links below; or give us a call at 800.288.2657 to speak to an expert about these services!

https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/ust/leak_prevention/lg113/vendors/cgrs_b.shtml