Leak Detection in Pipeline System Based on Flow Induced Vibration Methodology in Pipeline

Mohammad Rizwan, Immanuel Dinesh Paul

Abstract: The control of leaks in compressed gas and water distribution networks represents a critical issue. This paper deals with the detection of leaks by using vibration monitoring techniques. A Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS is developed for non invasive monitoring of pipeline systems. It incorporates MEMS accelerometers for measuring flow-induced vibration on the surface of a pipe to determine the change in fluid pressure caused by rupture and the damage location. This work presents an experimental investigation of the relationship between flow-induced vibration and the pressure fluctuations. Measurements of vibration were performed in pipe sections of a compressed gas filled loop subjected to a wide range of pressure. Experimental studies and observations shows that a sharp change in pressure is always accompanied by a sharp change of pipe surface acceleration at the corresponding locations along the pipe length. Therefore, pressure-monitoring can be transformed into acceleration cum vibration-monitoring of the pipe surface.

Keywords: leak detection, acceleration, vibration, MEMS sensors