Penstock leak detection using accurate flow monitoring systems
- O.R.E. International, Falmouth, MA (United States)
- Pacific Gas and Electric Co., Chico, CA (United States)
Multiple path acoustic flow rate measurement systems are ideally suited for applications requiring a high degree of accuracy and repeatability such as penstock leak detection. The use of multiple acoustic paths yields the accuracy and repeatability performance necessary for greater performance. In a typical application, a multiple path flowmeter is installed at a remote end of a penstock which continuously measures and telemeters flowrate data and status to a local multiple path flowmeter for comparison. If the comparison of flowrates; yields a differential that exceeds a preset threshold, the flowmeter enunciates alarms or valve closure contacts. Pairs of flowmeters monitoring flowrate provide redundancy and fail safe mechanisms to minimize the probability of false detection. Acoustic flowmeters utilize computer based technology that provides a flexible approach to detecting leaks in penstock configurations having hydraulic structures for transient protection such as surge chambers and vacuum breakers.
- OSTI ID:
- 220174
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-9507190-; TRN: 96:000708-0256
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Waterpower 1995: international conference, San Francisco, CA (United States), 25-28 Jul 1995; Other Information: PBD: 1995; Related Information: Is Part Of Waterpower`95. Volume 1-3; Cassidy, J.L. [ed.]; PB: 2869 p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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