Usage and Effect of Multiple Transient Tests for Pipeline Leak Detection

Abstract

The value of multiple transient tests under the same experimental conditions for the purpose of leakage detection is assessed. The gain in signal-to-noise ratio and leakage detection accuracy due to the multiple tests are derived theoretically and evaluated experimentally. The role of the multiple measurements in suppressing interferences and thus minimizing false detection is proven using experimental data. A theoretical extension of existing leakage detection method that was derived for single measurements is tested. From a practical perspective, this research quantitatively shows that the multitest strategy allows detecting smaller leaks in noisier environments, and/or using smaller-amplitude waves.