LEAKAGE DETECTION IN WATER PIPES USING ACOUSTIC APPROACH

Abstract

Different methods are used for leakage detection in waterpipes over the globe. To minimize leakage in pipelines, different research and studies are carried out. In recent studies, acoustic approaches like listening devices, noise loggers and leak noise correlators are being used for research purposes. The use of these devices is minimal because of their high cost. Therefore, this experimental study uses an acoustic device (decibel meter) for leakage detection in water pipes whose cost is much lower compared to other acoustic devices and software-based methods. The noise generated during the leakage in waterpipes is detected by a decibel meter. The decibel values were observed and noted for varied inflow at different locations with different leakage rates and pipe sizes for all three types of pipe materials (MS, PVC and HDPE). The decibel values are recorded at the leak point, 0.2m and 0.4m away from the leak point perpendicular to the pipeline. The effect of pipe material at no leak condition shows a minimum decibel value. When the leakage starts, the decibel value starts increasing to reach a critical point beyond which the readings observed become constant even if the leakage rate is increased further for all types of materials for all sets of observations. Again, considering the effect of pipe sizes, the decibel values start increasing suddenly at lower leakage rates to reach a critical point beyond which the decibel readings observed remain constant even if the leakage rate is increased further for all pipe sizes for all sets of observation. Further, the effect of leak distance shows the gradual increase in decibel values at a lower leakage rate to reach a critical point beyond which the decibel readings observed remain constant even if the leakage rate is increased further for all leak distances for all sets of observations under all 432 sets of observations. The use of a decibel meter to identify leaks in water pipes has the effect of conserving water, reducing expenses, and strengthening infrastructure. It facilitates the smooth operation of water distribution networks and supports sustainable methods of managing water resources. Being non-invasive, the results of such a study can be used in future research as a landmark in the detection of the level of leak magnitude in not only surface but also underground water pipes.