Evaluation of techniques for locating leaks in underground heat-distribution systems. Final report

Technical Report · Fri Aug 01 04:00:00 EDT 1986

OSTI ID:7036118

Cooper, K E; Marsh,; Segan, E G

This report evaluates techniques for locating leaks in both conduit and carrier pipes of Class A prefabricated heat-distribution systems and shallow-trench systems. Techniques discussed include infrared spectroscopy, tracer gas, and acoustic emission. Available techniques were reviewed for their success in locating leaks at various sites and for the cost of equipment and services they require. The probability of locating leaks with a given technique is a function of many factors, including system configuration, type of leak, depth of system burial, and other environmental factors. A flowchart was developed to help select an appropriate leak location technique for a given system. Accuracy of leak location may be excellent in some cases, but poor in others. The factors that impede accurate leak location using the various techniques investigated are also discussed.

• Research Organization: Army Construction Engineering Research Lab., Champaign, IL (USA)
• OSTI ID: 7036118
• Report Number(s): AD-A-172107/5/XAB; CERL-TR-M-86/16
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320600* -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Municipalities & Community Systems-- (1980-)
ACCURACY
DEPTH
DIMENSIONS
ENERGY SYSTEMS
ENERGY TRANSFER
HEAT DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
HEAT TRANSFER
LEAK DETECTORS
LEVELS
PIPES
UNDERGROUND