Pipeline leak detection device and method
OwnerDarren E. Merlobinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A pipeline leak detection device for detecting leaks in a pipe includes a sensor assembly guided into a pipe to detect evidence of a leak, and a position assessing device provides an indication of a location of the sensor assembly. The sensor assembly may be a hydrophone, and the position assessing device may be a guide wire with markings for measuring lengths of the guide wire, or a transmitter. An injector plug can be inserted in an access port of the pipe to create a liquid tight seal for insertion of the sensor assembly. A pressurizing device may also be connected to the access port to pressurize the pipe.
Claims13
A system for detecting leaks in a pipe having an access port, the system comprising:
- a hose connecting a pressurizing device connected to the access port of the pipe, the pressurizing device providing pressure within the pipe through the access port;
- a sensor assembly configured to be inserted in the pipe to detect vibrations of a leak in the pipe;
- a guiding device connected to the sensor assembly, the guiding device being configured to guide the sensor assembly until the vibrations detected by the sensor assembly from the leak are at a maximum;
- and
- a position locating device connected to the sensor assembly, the position locating device being configured to determine a location of the sensor assembly.
A method of detecting leaks in a pipe comprising:
- inserting a sensor assembly into the pipe, the sensor assembly being configured to detect vibrations caused by a leak;
- guiding the sensor assembly to a location within the pipe where the vibrations detected by the sensor assembly are at a maximum;
- and
- locating a location of the sensor assembly where the vibrations detected by the sensor assembly is at a maximum.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.