Heat Transfer Fluid Channel Leakage Detection in Reactors

The patent applies preliminary action by continuously monitoring heat transfer fluid flow rates and comparing them against predicted values from a numerical model before actual leaks occur. The system detects deviations in flow rates that indicate developing leaks, allowing maintenance to be scheduled before the leak escalates to a point requiring shutdown. This proactive detection approach transforms leak detection from reactive to preventive, resolving the contradiction between continuous operation and timely leak detection.

The patent implements feedback by continuously measuring heat transfer fluid flow rates, comparing them against model-predicted values, and using the error measures to detect leaks. The system provides ongoing feedback about system health status, enabling operators to respond to developing leaks before they cause shutdowns. This closed-loop monitoring approach improves detection reliability while minimizing unnecessary shutdowns by distinguishing actual leaks from normal variations.

The patent applies preliminary action by detecting leaks at early stages through continuous flow rate monitoring and numerical model comparison. By identifying leaks before they escalate, the system allows for planned maintenance during non-critical periods rather than emergency shutdowns. This approach maintains system reliability through early intervention while preserving productivity by avoiding unnecessary reactor shutdowns for minor issues.

The patent uses parameter changes by monitoring heat transfer fluid flow rate parameters and comparing them against predicted parameters from a numerical model. The system detects leaks through changes in flow rate error measures rather than requiring physical inspection or shutdown. This parameter-based detection method maintains reliability through continuous monitoring while preserving productivity by enabling operation until scheduled maintenance windows.

The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a numerical model as a mediator between the physical system and the detection process. The model predicts expected flow rates based on operating conditions, and the comparison between predicted and actual flow rates provides leak detection. This intermediary model enables precise leak detection without requiring complex sensor arrays or invasive measurements in the heat transfer fluid channels, resolving the contradiction between detection precision and system complexity.

The patent replaces mechanical leak detection methods (such as physical inspection, pressure testing, or acoustic sensors) with a computational approach using numerical modeling and flow rate analysis. By substituting mechanical detection systems with a software-based numerical model comparison system, the patent achieves high detection precision while avoiding the complexity of multiple physical sensors and mechanical inspection procedures.

The patent applies continuity of useful action by implementing continuous monitoring of heat transfer fluid flow rates and continuous comparison against the numerical model. Rather than periodic sampling, the system continuously generates and analyzes error measures, enabling immediate detection of leaks as they develop. This continuous analysis approach improves detection speed by eliminating gaps in monitoring while the efficient computational methodology keeps data processing time minimal.

The patent uses skipping by directly comparing measured flow rates against model predictions without intermediate complex analysis steps. The system calculates error measures through straightforward subtraction or ratio comparison, rapidly identifying deviations that indicate leaks. This streamlined approach rushes through the data processing necessary for early leak detection, improving detection speed while minimizing the time lost to complex computational analysis.