Transmission Main Leak Detection
Large-Diameter transmission main leak detection service
DID YOU KNOW?
–A 1/8″ HOLE IN A WATER MAIN CAN LOSE OVER 1 MILLION GALLONS OF WATER A YEAR
Typically, leak-noise correlators have been ineffective when it comes to locating water leaks in large-diameter transmission mains. Traditional leak detection methods often involve a hydrophone (water microphone) being inserted into a pipe and having the water carry it downstream as it listens for water leaks. However, few utilities conduct leak detection on their transmission mains because of numerous drawbacks that are often presented by such methods, which can include:
- Having to use specialized ports
- Having to alter water flow or dewater pipes
- Having to close service take-offs (often requires other technologies and additional costs)
- Disturbance of sediment in the pipe
- Introduction of foreign organisms into the pipe
- Loss of testing components in the pipe
- Limited accuracy
Fortunately, successful developments in acoustic leak detection technology made by Echologics, a subsidiary of Mueller Water Products, are enabling municipalities across North America, and in Europe, South Africa, Singapore and Australia to cost-effectively detect leaks on large-diameter transmission mains–composed of a range of materials including Ductile Iron, Pre-Stressed Concrete Cylinder Pipe (PCCP), Plastic and Asbestos Cement (AC)–to prioritize water system repairs and improve conservation–without breaking ground or disrupting service.
Key Advantages
Echologics’ Transmission Main Leak Detection service has several key advantages:
- Easy, fast and cost effective
- 100% non-invasive
- Highly accurate
- Detects and locates leaks over great distances
- Does not require specialized ports, closure of service laterals or flow alterations
- Does not disrupt water service Is not limited by pipe geometry (90-degree bends, butterfly valves, etc.)
How it Works
This 100% non-invasive leak detection service involves two hydrophone sensors that are separately mounted outside of a selected pipe on air valves, fire hydrants or other existing appurtences. Distances between the two sensors can range anywhere from 1000ft (300m) to more than 5000ft (1300m). A correlator listens for noise created by leaks that may exist in the span of pipe between the two sensors. The specific location of a leak is determined by the length of time it takes the noise it creates to reach each sensor. Echologics Transmission Main Leak Detection Service can locate leaks within 3ft (1m) of accuracy.
Performance
On-site performance is dependent on a number of factors, including the distance between the sensors and the geometry of the leak. Results actually achieved in the field:
- 60” PCCP, 3600’ (1100m) between sensors , leak of 1 GPM (~4 LPM)
- 24” Cast Iron, 2500’ (760m) between sensors, leak of .25 GPM (1 LPM)
To date, Echologics has surveyed over 100 miles (160 km) of transmission mains, locating hundreds of leaks.
For more information or to arrange for a pilot test of Echologics Transmission Main Leak Detection service, please contact us at: info@echologics.com.
