Design criteria and performance analysis of a smart portable device for leak detection in water transmission mains. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Brunone, B.; Capponi, C.; Meniconi, S.
• Is Part Of: Measurement. Volume 183(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Leak detection -- Transient tests -- Device for generating transients -- Transmission mains -- Pressurized flow; Weights and measures -- Periodicals; Measurement -- Periodicals; Measurement; Weights and measures; Periodicals; 530.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.measurement.2021.109844
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-2241

Abstract

Abstract: In this paper, criteria for the optimal and market-oriented design of the Smart-Portable Pressure Wave Maker (S-PPWM) device are presented. The outlined criteria are based on the positive results obtained both in laboratory and real systems. The S-PPWM can be used for fault (e.g., leak) detection in pressurized transmission mains (TMs) within the so-called Transient Test-Based Techniques. The proposed design procedure addresses two crucial issues: i) to minimize the volume (and then improving the portability), and ii) to allow evaluating easily the minimum detectable leak, for a given test TM. Such a procedure takes into account the characteristics and functioning conditions of the test TM. In such a context, the safety of the test TM in terms of the maximum generated overpressures and air entry prevention during transient tests is taken into account. Highlights: Leak detection in Transmission Mains is a key component of leakage control. Optimal design criteria of the S-PPWM, a smart device for leak detection, are given. S-PPWM is used within transient test-based techniques for leak detection. The proposed criteria allow minimizing the S-PPWM size for the given test pipe.