Hydrostatic drain testing machine
OwnerAndrew K. Dufresneinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The invention is an apparatus for detecting leaks in pipe systems. The apparatus has an elongate body to which are attached two pairs of inflatable seals; one pair adjacent one end and the other pair adjacent the opposite end of the body. A testing zone is defined between the pairs of seals. The seals of each pair are spaced one from the other along the length of the body and, when inflated, are capable of sealingly engaging the inner walls of a pipe to be tested. The apparatus also has an air supply to inflate the seals; a water supply to supply water to the testing zone; a pressure sensor between the seals of each pair to detect incomplete sealing between the seals, when they are inflated, and the inner walls of the pipe; and a pressure sensor within the testing zone to detect changes in water level in the testing zone.
Claims13
An apparatus suitable for detecting leaks in pipe systems, the apparatus comprising:
- an elongate body;
- a first pair of inflatable seals adjacent one end of the body and a second pair of inflatable seals adjacent the opposite end of the body to define a testing zone between the first and second pairs of seals, the seals of each pair being spaced one from the other along the length of the body, the seals being substantially external to the body, and the seals when inflated being capable of sealingly engaging the inner walls of a pipe to be tested;
- inflation means to inflate the seals by the introduction of fluid to the interior of the seals;
- liquid supply means to supply a liquid to the testing zone;
- a sealing leak detection means between the seals of each pair to detect incomplete sealing between the seals and the inner wall of the pipe, when they are inflated;
- and
- a level sensing means within the testing zone to detect changes in liquid level in the testing zone.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.