In a 90-day international roadshow, US technology firm Electro Scan has demonstrated a new multi-sensor leak detection probe that can be used in water utilities. The company estimates that 20-30% of water is lost before it reaches the meter. Inaccurate results can result in pipe repairs, and the cost of faulty pipes rises. This is where technology plays a vital role.

Acoustic correlators

Correlators use sound waves to detect leaks, and are a great way to isolate one leak from another. These devices use microphones and sound sensors to isolate a leak and pinpoint its location. Acoustic correlators were developed in the 1970s and were 10 to 20 times bigger than today’s models. They can also be used in areas where sound is a problem, such as basements and underground parking garages.

These instruments can detect both water and gas leaks. The noises are produced by pressure equalization at the location of the leak. The wavelength of the noise depends on a number of factors. Water leaks tend to generate sounds in the low kilohertz range, while gas leaks generate sounds in the ultrasonic range. Broadband acoustic sensors are better suited for gas leak detection.

Fiber optic sensors

A new technology called Fiber Optic Sensors for Plumbing Leak Detection is a promising option for monitoring pipelines. These fiber optic sensors are capable of monitoring up to 80 km of pipeline and detect changes in temperature, pressure, strain and bending. The new technology also integrates with existing digital control systems and alerts operators via digital protocols. A fiber optic leak detection system is an effective way to protect the environment and reduce spill risks.

The principle behind this new technology is based on the concept of intelligent infrastructure. The fiber optics cable is placed either beneath or on top of the pipeline. The system detects changes in strain within the pipe as fluid leaks alter the thermal environment of the cable. The sensor detects these changes and alerts the appropriate authorities. The technology is also useful in pipeline assets monitoring, pig tracking, batch tracking, third party interference, and flow anomalies.

Ground Penetrating Radar

A popular way to find out if you have a plumbing leak is to use Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). This technology uses microwave-band radiation to detect water in pipes and other underground objects. The reflected signal is then picked up by the receiver, allowing specialized technicians to create maps of the subsurface. The technique has many applications, from studying ancient history to finding out why your water bill keeps going up.

A ground penetrating radar system can track metal or non-metal pipes and detect their presence in real time. These systems are lightweight and easy to use, and they can give you the type of target and depth of detection. The software lets you follow the targets in real-time, map their locations, and pinpoint their exact locations. This is especially useful when searching for hidden pipes that are located deep beneath your basement. Avail best leak detection services.

Ultrasonic waves

The principle behind ultrasound leak detection is simple, but it is not foolproof. The signal generated by the leak decreases exponentially as it moves away from its source, which means the farther the inspector has to travel, the less likely he or she will be to detect a leak. This is true even in noisy plant environments where a leak may be hidden behind a wall or other structure. Hence, it is important to understand the process before employing it.

Ultrasonic leak detection technology was developed by NASA’s National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The technique utilizes an elliptical collector and an acoustic meter to measure small leaks. It can be used to detect leaks of gaseous substances, even at a distance. The detection process combines an elliptical collector with an earphone-like device located at the focal point of the ellipse.

Hydrophones

The EchoShore(r)-TX is a wireless communication transceiver that is inserted into pipelines. The technology is compatible with all pipe materials and can be installed in either a tap point or chamber wall. The system can detect small leaks from large to small, and is also non-intrusively deployable. Hydrophones are ideal for pipelines with long lengths, large diameters, and plastic pipes.

The LeakTronics team developed a new device that could detect pipes by their sound. It consists of three separate devices: an accelerometer for aboveground installation, a hydrophone for belowground installation, and a side mic for non-metallic pipes. The new SM-1 Side Mic eliminates ambient outside interference and increases leak detection accuracy. The SM-1 Side Mic is capable of receiving sound from pipes up to four miles below the surface of the water.