Leak Detection Instruction
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4.4
Key Facts about Water Leak Noise
These are some known facts about water leak noise:
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Size of l
eakage: Larger → Louder
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Type of leakage Source: Crack → Louder than holes and faulty connections
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Water pressure: Higher → Louder
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Pipe Material: Metallic → Louder
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Pipe Diameter: Smaller → Louder
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Pipe Depth: Shallower → Louder
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Soil Condition: Harder → Louder
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Pipe Depth: Shallower → Louder
4.5
Disruptive Noise Sources Generating Sounds like Leak Noises
The items listed below are examples of distracting noise sources which fall into the same
frequency band as water leaks and generate largely similar noises. The best solutions to
detect the noise of genuine water leaks are experience and the ability to discern the leak
noise in different conditions and environment, albeit with the help of advanced technologies.
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Power transformers (usually generate 300 Hz sounds)
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Gas powered air conditioners (usually generate 500 Hz sounds)
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Wastewater channels (usually generate 500-2000 Hz sounds)
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Water consumed by urban water subscribers, including the click-click sound of water
meters (usually generate 600-1500 Hz sounds)
4.6
Standard Procedure of Leak Detection Survey
The standard procedure of leak detection survey is as follows:
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Analysis and Plan: Examining maps, unit definitions, and the general direction of
projects; analyzing the control and statistical data of GIS.
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Area: Examining the network data, input and output of each area, and the results of
LCZ and DMA projects; using loggers’ data, choosing suitable areas for surveying
.
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Line: Using correlative and radio techniques and acoustic surveying of the itineraries
of buried pipes suspected to have leaks.
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Point: Using acoustic systems to spot the leak points accurately.
