Leak monitoring in pipeline networks using wavelet analysis

Leaks and blockages in fluid filled pipeline networks are one of the major concerns in chemical, gas, oil and water distribution industries. Current monitoring procedures of these networks require the use of multiple sensors distributed throughout the pipes. These include: pressure sensors, flow meters and/or valve sensors. Leak detection is usually accomplished by monitoring the fluid flow rate in and out of a pipe.. Recent work in this area has shown applications of wave reflections identified from the water hammer tests. This paper proposes a wavelet-based procedure for leak severity monitoring. The method detects singularities in reflected pressure waves. The method is validated through pipe network simulations. Pressure waves are simulated using time domain based transmission line modelling techniques. The study shows great potential for this method of leak severity identification which can be applied to many industrial applications.