A novel method for the detection of leakage and blockage in pipelines

A novel method for the remote detection of leakage and blockage in pipelines will be discussed. Experimental results obtained in air and water filled pipes, with and without flow, and from 40 to 305 mm diameter, will confirm the validity of the method. Interrogation distances in excess of 1 km appear to be achievable.Many techniques for the detection and location of pipeline failures have been proposed. Unfortunately, none is entirely satisfactory because of poor sensitivity, slow response, susceptibility to external noise, or inability to operate remotely. An alternative approach, based on acoustic wave propagation through the fluid, has merits, although the complicated nature of the acoustic wave reflections generated by the internal features of the pipe makes interpretation of the signal extremely difficult. The results of an on-going experimental study are discussed in this paper. It is shown that the new method eliminates many of these difficulties and is well suited to remote operation.