How do the leak detection methods for pressurized piping work?
Automatic line leak detectors (LLDs) • Flow restrictors and flow shutoffs can monitor the pressure within the line in a variety of ways: whether the pressure decreases over time; how long it takes for a line to reach operating pressure; and combinations of increases and decreases in pressure. • If a suspected leak is detected, a flow restrictor keeps the product flow through the line well below the usual flow rate. If a suspected leak is detected, a flow shutoff completely cuts off product flow in the line or shuts down the pump. • A continuous alarm system constantly monitors line conditions and immediately triggers an audible or visual alarm if a leak is suspected. Automated internal, vapor, or interstitial line monitoring systems can also be set up to operate continuously and sound an alarm, flash a signal on the console, or even ring a telephone in a manager’s office when a leak is suspected. • Both automatic flow restrictors and shutoffs are permanently installed directly into the
