A pipeline leak detection apparatus

By mechanically connecting the fiber optic grating sensor and the accelerometer to the pipeline using a clamp structure, the problems of cumbersome installation and pipeline damage in existing technologies are solved, achieving non-destructive testing and reliable leak monitoring, and reducing costs.

CN224339932UActive Publication Date: 2026-06-09HEBEI BAISHA TOBACCO

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
HEBEI BAISHA TOBACCO
Filing Date
2025-06-13
Publication Date
2026-06-09

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing installation methods for fiber Bragg grating sensors and accelerometers are cumbersome to operate, difficult to reuse, and may damage pipelines, affecting the reliability and cost of detection.

Method used

The fiber optic grating sensor and accelerometer are fastened to the pipe using a clamp structure, which is a mechanical connection that avoids welding and gluing. It is suitable for detachment and reuse and can be adapted to different pipe diameters and surface shapes.

Benefits of technology

It enables non-destructive testing, improves the comprehensiveness and accuracy of testing, reduces monitoring costs, and ensures the integrity of pipeline structures and the stability of sensors.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model discloses a pipeline leak detection device concretely relates to pipeline detection technical field, including the clamp, fiber grating sensor and acceleration sensor, and the clamp is used for with the pipeline of measuring detachably connected, and the fiber grating sensor is placed between the clamp and the pipeline of measuring, and the fiber grating sensor is fixed and clamped on the pipeline of measuring through the clamp, and the acceleration sensor is connected with the clamp, and the contact probe of acceleration sensor is in close contact with the outside wall of the pipeline of measuring. The utility model discloses simple structure, can be used repeatedly, can realize fast, stable installation, and the practicality and reliability of detection system are promoted.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of pipeline inspection technology, and in particular to a pipeline leak detection device. Background Technology

[0002] In urban heating, industrial systems, and other fields, pipelines are crucial carriers for transporting media, and their safe and stable operation directly affects the normal functioning of the entire system. Pipelines may leak due to long-term use, corrosion, aging, or external damage. This not only wastes energy but can also lead to safety accidents and environmental pollution. Therefore, real-time monitoring of pipelines and timely detection and location of leaks are of great significance.

[0003] In recent years, with the development of fiber optic sensing and vibration sensing technologies, non-invasive pipeline leak detection methods based on fiber optic grating (FBG) sensors and accelerometers have attracted attention. FBG sensors, in particular, offer advantages such as high sensitivity, resistance to electromagnetic interference, and corrosion resistance. They can measure local strain changes on the pipeline surface caused by leaks, enabling early identification of leaks. Accelerometers, by acquiring vibration signals caused by fluid leakage in the pipeline, can help determine the occurrence and location of leaks.

[0004] However, both of these sensor installation methods have significant limitations: fiber optic grating sensors require adhesive bonding, which is cumbersome, inefficient, difficult to disassemble and reuse, and the bonding quality is greatly affected by human factors, easily leading to problems such as poor adhesion, resulting in measurement errors or even failure; accelerometer sensors typically use rigid connection methods such as stud welding to the pipe surface, which, while ensuring signal transmission, can cause permanent damage to the pipe, contradicting the concept of "non-destructive installation." These problems restrict the widespread application of multi-sensor fusion detection technology in pipeline leak monitoring. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a pipeline leak detection device that is structurally sound, easy to install, reusable, and does not affect the integrity of the pipeline. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a pipeline leak detection device to solve the problems existing in the prior art. It has a simple structure, is reusable, can be installed quickly and stably, and improves the practicality and reliability of the detection system.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides the following solution:

[0007] This utility model provides a pipeline leak detection device, including a clamp, a fiber optic grating sensor, and an accelerometer. The clamp is used to detachably connect to the pipeline to be tested. The fiber optic grating sensor is placed between the clamp and the pipeline to be tested, and the fiber optic grating sensor is fixedly clamped to the pipeline to be tested by the clamp. The accelerometer is connected to the clamp, and the contact probe of the accelerometer is in close contact with the outer wall of the pipeline to be tested.

[0008] Preferably, the clamp includes a first semi-circular clamp, a second semi-circular clamp, and a fastener. The first semi-circular clamp and the second semi-circular clamp are spliced ​​and fixed into a whole circular clamp by the fastener. The first semi-circular clamp is connected to the accelerometer, and the second semi-circular clamp is used to make the fiber optic grating sensor fit tightly against the pipe to be tested.

[0009] Preferably, the first semi-circular clamp and the second semi-circular clamp are respectively provided with connecting ears at both ends, and bolt holes are opened on the connecting ears. The fasteners include bolts and nuts, and the corresponding connecting ears on the first semi-circular clamp and the second semi-circular clamp are connected by the bolts and the nuts.

[0010] Preferably, the first semi-circular clamp has a detection hole for mounting the acceleration sensor.

[0011] Preferably, the highest point of the outer side wall of the first semi-circular clamp has a boss, and the detection hole is provided on the boss.

[0012] Preferably, it also includes a mounting gasket, which is fixedly mounted on the inner side of the second semi-circular clamp.

[0013] Preferably, it also includes locking washers, which are fixedly installed on the connecting ears at both ends of the second semi-circular clamp.

[0014] Preferably, both the mounting gasket and the locking gasket are made of polyurethane rubber.

[0015] The present invention achieves the following technical advantages over the prior art:

[0016] This invention provides a pipeline leak detection device. A clamp, detachably connected to the pipeline under test, mechanically secures a fiber optic grating sensor and an accelerometer to the pipeline, eliminating the need for welding, gluing, or drilling. This avoids damage to the pipeline surface, meeting the requirements of "non-destructive testing." It is suitable for pipelines requiring periodic disassembly and re-inspection without affecting the overall structural integrity and service life of the pipeline. The entire device is easy to disassemble and can be reused in different locations or on different pipelines, reducing monitoring costs. When sensors fail or need replacement, the clamp structure allows for quick disassembly and replacement. Furthermore, the clamp provides a more stable fit on curved pipelines, ensuring reliable detection. The integrated fiber optic grating sensor and accelerometer enable monitoring of the pipeline status from different angles, improving the comprehensiveness and accuracy of leak detection. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a pipeline leak detection device;

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the clamp structure of a pipeline leak detection device;

[0020] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the first semi-circular clamp of the pipeline leak detection device;

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the second semi-circular clamp of the pipeline leak detection device.

[0022] In the figure: 1-First semi-circular clamp; 2-Second semi-circular clamp; 3-Connecting ear; 4-Bolt; 5-Nut; 6-Mounting washer; 7-Locking washer; 8-Boss; 9-Detection hole; 10-Bolt hole; 11-Fiber optic grating sensor; 12-Acceleration sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0024] The purpose of this invention is to provide a pipeline leak detection device to solve the problems existing in the prior art. It has a simple structure, is reusable, can be installed quickly and stably, and improves the practicality and reliability of the detection system.

[0025] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, the utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0026] This utility model provides a pipeline leak detection device, such as Figures 1-4 As shown, the device includes a clamp, a fiber Bragg grating sensor 11, and an accelerometer 12. The clamp is used to detachably connect to the pipe under test. The fiber Bragg grating sensor 11 is placed between the clamp and the pipe under test, and the fiber Bragg grating sensor 11 is fixedly clamped to the pipe under test by the clamp. The accelerometer 12 is connected to the clamp, and the contact probe of the accelerometer 12 is in close contact with the outer wall of the pipe under test. The clamps that connect to the pipe under test mechanically secure the fiber optic grating sensor 11 and the accelerometer sensor 12 to the pipe without the need for welding, gluing, or drilling, thus avoiding damage to the pipe surface and meeting the requirements of "non-destructive testing." This makes it suitable for pipes requiring periodic disassembly and re-inspection without affecting the overall structural integrity and service life of the pipe. The entire device is easy to disassemble and can be reused in different locations or on different pipes, reducing monitoring costs. When sensors fail or need replacement, the clamp structure allows for quick disassembly and replacement. Furthermore, the clamps provide a more stable fit on curved pipes, ensuring reliable detection. The pipe leak detection device integrates the fiber optic grating sensor 11 and the accelerometer sensor 12, enabling monitoring of the pipe's condition from different angles. It utilizes changes in strain and vibration as judgment criteria, improving the comprehensiveness and accuracy of leak detection.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment of this utility model, the clamp includes a first semi-circular clamp 1, a second semi-circular clamp 2, and fasteners. The first semi-circular clamp 1 and the second semi-circular clamp 2 are spliced ​​and fixed into a whole circular clamp by the fasteners. The first semi-circular clamp 1 is connected to the accelerometer 12, and the second semi-circular clamp 2 is used to make the fiber optic grating sensor 11 fit tightly against the pipe to be tested.

[0028] In a further preferred embodiment of this utility model, the first semi-circular clamp 1 and the second semi-circular clamp 2 are respectively provided with connecting ears 3 at both ends. Bolt holes 10 are provided on the connecting ears 3. Fasteners include bolts 4 and nuts 5. The corresponding connecting ears 3 on the first semi-circular clamp 1 and the second semi-circular clamp 2 are connected by bolts 4 and nuts 5. This connection method facilitates quick installation and disassembly. The clamps can adapt to different pipe diameters by adjusting the tightness of the bolts 4, making them particularly suitable for non-circular pipes or pipes with uneven surfaces.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment of this invention, the highest point of the outer wall of the first semi-circular clamp 1 has a boss 8, and a detection hole 9 is provided on the boss 8. The accelerometer 12 is fixed by the specially designed boss 8, which can firmly fix the accelerometer 12 to the curved surface of the first semi-circular clamp 1, ensuring that the accelerometer 12 can form a stable vibration system with the pipe under test, reducing the influence of external interference factors, and ensuring accurate detection of vibration signals. Further preferably, the accelerometer 12 is threadedly connected to the detection hole 9, facilitating the installation and removal of the accelerometer 12.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment of this utility model, the pipeline leak detection device further includes a mounting gasket 6 and a locking gasket 7. The mounting gasket 6 is fixedly installed on the inner side of the second semi-circular clamp 2, and the locking gasket 7 is fixedly installed on the connecting ears 3 at both ends of the second semi-circular clamp 2. The mounting gasket 6 can both provide buffering for the fiber optic grating sensor 11 and effectively transmit strain, enabling the fiber optic grating sensor 11 to more accurately capture the minute deformation of the pipeline caused by leakage. Furthermore, the mounting gasket 6 has an anti-slip function; when the clamp is tightened on the pipeline, the friction between the mounting gasket 6 and the fiber optic grating sensor 11 and the outer wall of the pipeline under test will greatly increase, firmly adhering the fiber optic grating sensor 11 to the outer wall of the pipeline under test. The locking gasket 7 is used to buffer the tightening force between the first semi-circular clamp 1 and the second semi-circular clamp 2, preventing damage to the first semi-circular clamp 1 and the second semi-circular clamp 2 when the bolt 4 and nut 5 are clamped and fixed.

[0031] In a further preferred embodiment of this utility model, both the mounting gasket 6 and the locking gasket 7 are made of polyurethane rubber. The polyurethane rubber mounting gasket 6 not only provides the necessary friction to ensure the stable operation of the fiber Bragg grating sensor 11, but its elastic properties also ensure that the fiber Bragg grating sensor 11 will not be damaged even if it is installed and disassembled multiple times. The polyurethane rubber locking gasket 7 can reduce damage to the clamp when disassembling the clamp.

[0032] When using a pipeline leak detection device, the accelerometer 12 is first threadedly connected to the first semi-circular clamp 1 via bolt 4. Then, the fiber optic grating sensor 11 is tightly attached to the pipeline. At the same time, the mounting gasket 6 on the inner side of the second semi-circular clamp 2 is used to press the fiber optic grating sensor 11 tightly onto the pipeline to be tested. Then, the first semi-circular clamp 1 is also attached to the other side of the pipeline to be tested. Finally, the first semi-circular clamp 1 and the second semi-circular clamp 2 are spliced ​​together and fastened to the pipeline to be tested with bolt 4 and nut 5. The installation is then complete.

[0033] This utility model uses specific examples to illustrate its principles and implementation methods. The above description of the embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core idea of ​​this utility model. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the idea of ​​this utility model. In summary, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

Claims

1. A pipeline leak detection apparatus, characterized by: The device includes a clamp, a fiber Bragg grating sensor, and an accelerometer. The clamp is used to detachably connect to the pipe under test. The fiber Bragg grating sensor is placed between the clamp and the pipe under test and is fixedly clamped to the pipe under test by the clamp. The accelerometer is connected to the clamp and the contact probe of the accelerometer is in close contact with the outer wall of the pipe under test.

2. The pipeline leak detection apparatus of claim 1, wherein: The clamp includes a first semi-circular clamp, a second semi-circular clamp, and a fastener. The first semi-circular clamp and the second semi-circular clamp are spliced ​​and fixed into a whole circular clamp by the fastener. The first semi-circular clamp is connected to the accelerometer, and the second semi-circular clamp is used to make the fiber optic grating sensor fit tightly against the pipe to be tested.

3. A pipeline leak detection apparatus according to claim 2, characterised in that: The first semi-circular clamp and the second semi-circular clamp are respectively provided with connecting ears at both ends. Bolt holes are opened on the connecting ears. The fasteners include bolts and nuts. The corresponding connecting ears on the first semi-circular clamp and the second semi-circular clamp are connected by the bolts and the nuts.

4. The pipeline leak detection apparatus of claim 2, wherein: The first semi-circular clamp has a detection hole for installing the accelerometer.

5. A pipeline leak detection apparatus according to claim 4, characterised in that: The highest point of the outer wall of the first semi-circular clamp has a boss, and the detection hole is provided on the boss.

6. The pipeline leak detection apparatus of claim 3, wherein: It also includes a mounting gasket, which is fixedly installed on the inner side of the second semi-circular clamp.

7. The pipeline leak detection device according to claim 6, characterized in that: It also includes locking washers, which are fixedly installed on the connecting ears at both ends of the second semi-circular clamp.

8. A pipeline leak detection apparatus according to claim 7, characterised in that: Both the mounting gasket and the locking gasket are made of polyurethane rubber.