Leak Detectors: The Smart Way of Detecting Leakages

The ultimate aim of all the maintenance and control systems in the power plant is to ensure an efficient and reliable operation. Among various factors, which contribute to the downfall of the productivity of the system, leakage in the tubes is of major concern. Failing to detect these leaks at the earliest time possible doesn't only reduce the efficiency of the firm but also increases the chances of accidents in the firm. Prior to the advent of tube leak detectors, manual systems were used, which consisted of various tests like water bubble test, soap solution test, pressure and vacuum decay tests. However, the advent of leak detectors has made simplified the process to a great extent. Have a look at various popular sensors in this context.

Digital oil leak detection cable:

• The sensing element in this detector is a braid of semi permeable internal conductors, which is secured by an insulated permeable molded braid.
• The cable connector has internally built microprocessor, which is used to detect the electrical signals passing through the cables.
• If the cable gets into contact with the working fluid, it tends to change its properties. These changes alter the current passed through it, which gets detected by the microprocessor. 

Infrared radiometric testing:

• It is an accurate and efficient method of testing and locating the subsurface leaks caused due to various factors like deteriorated insulation of pipeline, eroded surfaces and others.
• When the fluid flows out into the restricted area, the difference between the thermal conductance of the fluid and its surroundings is the key to identify it.
• Equipping your firm with a high resolution infrared radiometer can allow you to scan the complete equipment out there. By studying the pictures displayed carefully, you can get to know more about the leakage areas.

Acoustic emission detectors:

• This test is based on the acoustic signal generated by the liquid escaping from the tubes. These sensors should be fixed on the external surface of the pipeline.
• In case of leakage, the flowing liquid generates an acoustic signal of low frequency will be generated. The sensors analyze these signals and generate the results for the same.
• Of late, sophisticated acoustic equipment has come into use, which enables us to generate graphs distinctly.

Vapor sensing tubes:

• Unlike the other types of sensors, the vapor sensing sensors should be installed along the whole length of the pipeline. These detectors are application oriented.
• When the leakage takes place in the system, the working fluid can diffuse into the detector in the form of vapor or gas.
• An image of the substance surrounding the detector is generated. The intensity of the leakage can also be found out with this device.

It is important to choose the perfect detector for your system. In this regard consider various aspects like the working fluid, design of the pipelines, the number of bolted or welded joints and others.

Source : articlesbase.com