Pipe leakage detection using ultrasonic acoustic signals

Abstract

In the work reported in this paper, two ultrasonic leak detectors were designed and manufactured to detect pipe leaks remotely using a non-contact, non-destructive method. One ultrasonic leak detector module with a parabolic reflector (diameter 150 mm and focal length of 100 mm) and a second ultrasonic leak detection module with a conical horn guide (length 100 mm, angle 9.5°) were fabricated. After CAD design, the parabolic reflector was processed by 3D printing manufacturing method. The performance of these devices was tested and evaluated in an outdoor environment in accordance with the ASTM E1002–05 class II equipment verification standards. The field verification tests were conducted about 20 times. According to the evaluation of the test results, the average S/N (signal to noise) ratio of the ultrasonic leak detector with the parabolic reflector was about 4.97 dB, and the average leak detection S/N ratio of the ultrasonic leak detector with a conical horn guide was about 1.89 dB

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