Abstract
The difficulties in locating leaks in plastic pipes are well-documented. The frequency of noise generated by leaks and plastic pipes are generally much lower in frequency and amplitude than a similarly on a metallic pipe. The practical difficulties are so well-documented that very few leak detection technicians will even attempt to use leak noise correlators on plastic pipe. The Leakfinder RT correlator has earned a reputation for excellent performance on plastic pipe, however without the knowledge of proper feel procedures, correlation of leaks in plastic pipe will generally be unsuccessful. This paper will outline the physics of acoustics on plastic pipe and transmission mains, in order to give a fundamental background on the issues regarding leak detection on plastic pipes and large diameter pipes, as the issues are similar. The issues of frequency content, attenuation of acoustic waves, and velocity of the acoustic waves will be covered. Following this, the authors will present the results from several recent studies where successful leak locations were performed on plastic pipe. These include case studies from Numerous leaks were found on the system, and some novel measurement techniques were used to make the correlation technology successful. The techniques developed have application to other water systems as an example project of leak detection on plastic, the technical methods that must be used, and the limitations encountered.
Published Version
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