Transmission Loss as an Indicator of Multiple Leaks in a Pipeline
Publication: Journal of Pipeline Systems Engineering and Practice
Volume 13, Issue 3
Abstract
Because leaks tend to form at joints or welds at the intersection of modular pipes, the occurrence of multiple leaks in a long pipeline is possible. In this study, a multiple-leak detection methodology using an acoustic method was adopted. A mathematical model based on using the transfer matrix method for calculating the sound transmission loss in a pipeline with multiple leaks is presented. It was found that one can clearly differentiate the transmission loss spectrum of multiple leaks from that of a single leak. It was also established that one can distinguish the transmission loss spectra of pipes having two or three concurrent leaks. The transmission loss curves further appear to provide useful indications on the level of leaking severity.
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Data Availability Statement
Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Acknowledgments
The authors would like to acknowledge the support provided by King Abdulaziz City of Science and Technology (KACST) for funding this work through Project No. 11-ELE1623-04 as part of the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Plan.
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Information & Authors
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Published In
Journal of Pipeline Systems Engineering and Practice
Volume 13 • Issue 3 • August 2022
Copyright
© 2022 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Nov 2, 2021
Accepted: Mar 16, 2022
Published online: May 30, 2022
Published in print: Aug 1, 2022
Discussion open until: Oct 30, 2022
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