In-Pipe Leak Detection via Multi-Point Close Proximity Scanning

This technology relates to leak detection and more particularly to a leak detection system for deployment within a pipe.

 

Researchers

Dimitrios Chatzigeorgiou / Rached Ben-Mansour / Kamal Youcef-Toumi / Sanjay Sarma / Stephen Ho

Departments: Department of Mechanical Engineering
Technology Areas: Agriculture & Food: Sensors / Industrial Engineering & Automation: Manufacturing & Equipment
Impact Areas: Sustainable Future

  • leak detection system
    United States of America | Granted | 8,820,143

Technology

This invention moves many small ring-shape tubes perpendicular to the inner tube wall to check multiple points in the pipe simultaneously. Leaks flowing through pipe walls will propagate into the tubes. By moving the ring through the pipe, the pipe’s inner surface can be mapped. A sufficiently high density of tubes would sense a leak anywhere around the circumference.

Problem Addressed

Acoustic methods only sense leaks from outside of the pipes, which limits accessibility.

Advantages

  • Detect the leak and its position and orientation by surveying the entire pipe surface.

License this technology

Interested in this technology? Connect with our experienced licensing team to initiate the process.

Sign up for technology updates

Sign up now to receive the latest updates on cutting-edge technologies and innovations.