Acoustic leak detection has become an integral part of the whole water leak detection domain. Those who don’t know much about acoustic leak detection, it is a technique to detect water leaks based on sounds produced by leaks as opposed to those of normal water flow through the water system.
Water loss control or WLC has become one of the most challenging tasks in water systems – both in commercial and residential premises. With the advent of modern technology, WLC has come up with a new method to detect a leak in congested yet underground spaces – called acoustic leak detection.
Irrespective of the equipment used, it is recommended to adjust the acoustic leak detection system according to the specific system needs – ensuring optimal results.
Water Leak Detection: Leak Sounds
When it comes to leaking sounds, they’re mostly related to the material and size of the pipe. In most cases, water flow through a pipe does not make sound; unless it is disturbed.
The disturbances may include:
- Unusual change in diameter or direction
- Service draw
- Flow through meters
- Flow through pumps
- Throttled valves
- PRV’s (Pressure Reducing Valves)
- And most of all leaks.
The material of Water Pipe
As discussed earlier, leak sounds can vary according to the size and material of the pipe. For instance, metal pipe leaks produce the sound of higher frequency; metals like iron, steel, and copper pipes product leaks’ sound of frequencies ranging from 500 Hz to 1500 Hz.
If you’re concerned about PVC pipes, the leak sound frequency ranges from 70-850 Hz. Small likes like pinholes are most likely much louder than larger leaks. Again, it all depends on certain factors.
Tips to Consider When Employing Acoustic Leak Detection
Whether you’re new to leak detection or looking forward to finding links at your place, the following tips will help you ease the water leak detection process.
- It is not necessary for all leaks to make noise. Even if it does, it is nearly impossible to detect sound even with the most sensitive leak detection equipment. Thus, you may want to detect the leak using traditional water leak detection methods.
- Avoid hydrant to hydrant surveys unless you’re after a larger leak with a short deadline. There are greater chances that you’ll miss some leaks as they are not good at contact points.
- Stay away from leak detection companies that guarantee they will find all the leaks. As discussed earlier, it is impossible to find all leaks as not all leaks make noise.
- Make sure not to take anything for granted. Now is the right time to isolate valves to avoid flow through tees, throttled valves, and crosses.
In a nutshell, water leak detection in every water system varies. No two water systems are similar. Thereby, a thorough survey is always needed to ensure the best solution. In case of further questions, feel free to contact us or leave a reply.
