Acoustic Detection of Leaks in Water Pipelines Using Measurements inside Pipe

Abstract

Acoustic leak-detection techniques are proven to be effective and have been widely used in water-distribution systems for several decades. Most of the existing acoustic leak-detection techniques rely on external measurements of sound emitted from the turbulent jet of water escaping the pipe. Direct acoustic measurements through hydrophones, which travel inside the pipe with the flow, have been recently addressed as an efficient complementary leak-detection technique. This paper presents an experimental investigation that addresses the feasibility and potential of in-pipe acoustic measurements for leak detection. An experimental test rig was constructed to simulate a water transmission pipeline and permits different leak sizes, flow rates, and pressures. The acquired acoustic signals were analyzed; the feasibility and limitations of invoking in-pipe measurements for leak detection were addressed. © 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers.