Detecting small water leaks in concealed pipes

Abstract

Due to environmental and operational concerns, it is crucial for us to detect fluid leaks caused by corrosions. Corrosions in concealed pipe causes pinhole leaks that damage the surrounding wall and causes water wastage. Numerous existing leaks detection methods were examined and evaluated to develop a cheap and reliable leak detection device to save water.

A series of experiment were done on a leak simulation system to analyse the behaviour of pressure decay and volumetric flow of a leaking pipe. The differences in each experiment aid in the development of a complete leak detection device for identifying small leaks occurring in the concealed pipe system.

Using the concept of pressure gradient force, the designed leak detection device is able to detect any pressure loss in the pipe system through movements of the plunger in the barrel, however, this design is still in the early stages. Recommendations were made to enhance the detection of leaks as well as to improve the experiment for future studies.