Pipeline Leak Localization Using Pressure Modulation and Flow Delay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leak detection methods in pipeline systems are inadequate for continuous monitoring of existing leaks, as they often require significant pressure impacts, are limited to large leaks, and can lead to misinterpretations due to interference points.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the modulation of pressure signals within the pipeline system at specific locations, allowing for the calculation of the distance to a leak based on the time offset between pressure changes and flow changes, which can be repeated at different locations to determine the exact location of the leak.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pressure wave methods are used for leak detection, then leak location can be identified, but significant pressure surges are required which place stress on the piping system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic pressure modulation at a first location in the pipeline system. Instead of using strong pressure surges, the system uses periodic pressure changes at a moderate amplitude to create measurable effects. This periodic action allows continuous monitoring without subjecting the pipeline to harmful stress, while still enabling leak detection through correlation analysis of the modulated pressure and flow signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the pressure parameter by modulating it periodically at a specific location rather than applying transient pressure waves. This parameter change approach uses small-amplitude periodic variations instead of large pressure surges, achieving leak detection sensitivity while avoiding pipeline stress. The modulation frequency and amplitude are optimized to detect leaks without causing harmful effects.
2Measurement precision
If transient pressure wave methods are used, then leak detection is possible, but the measurement setup is temporary and requires personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous pressure modulation and monitoring at the first location, replacing temporary measurement setups. The periodic pressure modulation runs continuously, and the correlation analysis between modulated pressure and flow signals provides ongoing leak detection. This eliminates the need for personnel to set up temporary equipment and enables permanent integration into the pipeline system for continuous monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the pipeline's own flow and pressure characteristics to detect leaks. By modulating pressure and correlating it with flow measurements, the system self-diagnoses leak conditions without requiring external personnel intervention. The automated correlation analysis and leak determination enable the system to monitor itself continuously.
3Measurement precision
If pressure modulation is used for leak detection, then small leaks can be detected, but differentiation from normal consumption patterns is challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses correlation analysis between the modulated pressure signal and the flow signal to detect leaks. The correlation coefficient provides feedback on the relationship between pressure changes and flow changes. When a leak is present, the correlation shows a specific pattern that differs from normal consumption patterns. This feedback mechanism enables reliable differentiation between leaks and normal variations in water consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The periodic pressure modulation creates a predictable signal pattern that can be correlated with flow measurements. By using periodic action, the system establishes a reference pattern against which actual flow responses can be compared. This periodic reference enables the system to distinguish between leaks (which show characteristic response patterns) and normal consumption variations (which show different patterns).
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the detection and localization of leaks, including small ones, without disrupting normal pipeline operations, and allows for differentiation between leaks and normal consumption patterns, providing a more accurate and continuous monitoring solution.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure signal is modulated with a first predefinable reference signal for a first defined period of time at a first location
Implementation Method 2
the time offset between a change in pressure and a change in flow can be used to calculate a distance to a leak location
Implementation Method 3
a pressure sensor detects pressure fluctuations in the fluid in the pipe caused by the pressure wave
Implementation Method 4
the flow (and, for comparison, also the pressure) is measured at the point of pressure application
Implementation Method 5
the time offset between the change in pressure and the change in flow can be used to calculate the distance to the leak location
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for detecting a leak and a suitable device for this purpose in a supply network with a piping system through which a fluid is conveyed, wherein at various locations (x1, x2, ...xN) of the piping system, the pressure (p(t)) and the volumetric flow rate (V(t)) of the fluid are measured as a function of time. The invention is characterized in that at a first location (x1), the pressure in the piping system is modulated with a first predefinable reference signal (M1) for a first defined time period (T1), and preferably at this first location (x1), the profiles of the modulated pressure and volumetric flow signals are recorded, and upon detection of a time difference (Δt1) between defined signal components of the pressure signal and the volumetric flow signal, a first distance of a leak from this first location (x1) is determined from this time difference (Δt1).The method according to the invention and correspondingly designed devices are particularly applicable for the detection of existing leaks in supply networks.