Leakdetection

Leak detection, sometimes written as leakdetection, is the process of identifying and locating leaks of liquids or gases in systems, equipment, or environments. It encompasses methods to detect leaks in water lines, natural gas and other industrial gases, fuels, refrigerants, cooling fluids, and chemicals. Effective leak detection helps prevent damage, reduce losses, ensure safety, and minimize environmental impact.

Detection methods can be active or passive and range from continuous monitoring to on-demand testing. Common techniques include pressure and flow monitoring, acoustic emission and listening devices, infrared thermography, moisture and humidity sensors, tracer gas methods, and ultrasonic or laser-based detectors. Fiber optic sensing and wireless sensor networks enable distributed detection over large facilities.

Applications span utilities and infrastructure such as water distribution and wastewater systems; building management, including plumbing and HVAC leak monitoring; manufacturing and process industries; oil, gas, and petrochemical operations; data centers; and agricultural irrigation systems.

Effective leak detection relies on sensor placement, regular calibration, and data analysis to distinguish leaks from benign changes. Benefits include reduced water loss and energy waste, improved safety, and environmental protection, but challenges include cost, integration with existing systems, power and communication needs, and the risk of false positives or negatives.

Standards and best practices guide detection programs, with industry-specific requirements for sensor performance, response times, and reporting. Ongoing advances in sensor materials, machine learning for anomaly detection, and networked monitoring are expanding capabilities in leak detection.