A Quantitative Infrared Assessment Method for Gas Leakage Rate in Pressure Vessels Based on Outer Wall Temperature Difference

Abstract

Abstract. This study thoroughly examines the influence of gas leakage on pressure vessel outer wall temperatures using theoretical analysis, experimental validation, and numerical simulations. It establishes a quantitative connection between leakage rates and temperature variations and delves into critical elements affecting detection efficiency. An experimental setup simulating gas leaks in pressure vessels was designed alongside a numerical model predicting thermodynamic behavior during leakage. The close agreement of simulation results with experimental data confirmed its accuracy. Analysis revealed that under constant internal pressure, a significant linear correlation exists between the leakage rate and the outer wall temperature difference between the leak site and the intact surroundings. This suggests that the extent of leakage can be indirectly gauged by measuring this temperature difference in infrared thermal images. These discoveries deepen our comprehension of gas leakage mechanics in pressure vessels and offer foundational theories and pragmatic guidelines for infrared-based gas leak detection techniques.