Water Leak Detection
Water Leak Detection
Outdoor Water Leak Detection: Factors Affecting the Leaks Sound
For outdoor water leak detection, an acoustic leak detection method is recommended. In this method, water leaving a pipe under pressure creates vibration and noise. The noise is detected on the surfaces, indicating the location of the leak.
But do you know there are certain factors that affect the level of the sound? In this post, we will discuss these factors and help you utilize water leak locating services in the best way possible.
Water Pressure in the Pipe
The force given by water when it moves through the pipe is known as water pressure. If the pressure is high, it increases the water flow speed. The speed of the water flow causes more noise if there is a leak or obstruction.
Pipe Material and Pipe Diameter
Pipes made of different materials transmit different types and levels of sound. It’s said that sound amplifies if the pipes are made of metals like copper or steel. On the other hand, plastic pipes, such as PVC reduces the noise level.
The pipe diameter also directly affects the sound level and frequency. A larger pipe diameter causes lower sound frequency, and a smaller pipe diameter produces sounds with a higher pitch.
Soil Type and Compaction
During the water leak detection process, the soil type surrounding the pipe affects the sound from the pipe to the surface. If the soil is loose, it absorbs more sound and reduces the intensity of the noise. On the other hand, if the soil is compact, transmission of the sound is more effective. Rocky or sandy soil also has an impact on the sound.
Depth of the Pipe
The depth of the pipe impacts the level of sound it emits. Shallow-buried pipes easily transmit noise to the surface and make leak detection simpler. Deeply buried pipes reduce the intensity of the sound because they absorb more soil mass.
Surface Cover
Different things, like grass, loose soil, asphalt, landscape matting, vapor barriers, concrete slabs, etc. cover the ground above the pipe. This surface cover decides how much sound reaches the surface for detection.
Grass, loose soil, vapor barriers, and landscape matting reduces the sound level, whereas hard surfaces like asphalt or concrete reflect and amplify the sound. Leaks under hard surfaces are more noticeable.
Type of Break
Pipe damage or breaks causing leaks produce different sound profiles. If the leak damage is like a pinhole, it produces a hissing sound, whereas if there is a larger rupture, the noise is loud and rushing. The break shape and size determine the pitch and volume of the emitted sound.
Bottom Lines
Acoustic leak detection is the recommended method for outdoor water leak detection and irrigation leak detection. But its accuracy depends on the sound emitted from the pipe damage and leakage. So, try to capture the sound and understand its impact on the detection process.
Are you looking for a water leak locating service? Come to C-N-I Locates.
