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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Method and device for detecting and locating leaks in pipelines

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5717138

A device for locating leaks in a pipe includes a leak locator probe that is suitable for being transported along a length of the pipe. The leak locator probe includes a tube that is closed at one end and open at the other end. An aperture provides an air flow passageway between the interior of the tube and an annular volume exterior to the tube as defined by the exterior walls of the tube, annular rings and the interior walls of the pipe. Cables are utilized to reciprocate the leak locator probe within the pipe. During operation, the leak locator probe is inserted into the pipe in sealing contact therewith. The pipe is pressurized adjacent the open end of the probe with the annular volume between the rings pressurized through the orifice. When encountering a leak adjacent the annular volume, air is caused to flow through the aperture. A check valve prevents air from flowing from the exterior of the tube to the interior thereof.

Assignee:
AGL Corp.
Patent Number(s):
US 4402213
OSTI ID:
5717138
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English