Pipeline leak detection method based on coupling analysis and its application

There are only few studies on pipeline leak diagnosis based on analysis of coupling between pipeline and pump unit. Combining the integrated detection of process data of pipeline facilities, this paper presents a new leak detection method for pipeline using coupling analysis according to the theory of negative pressure waves. The method includes pipeline pressure abnormality capture by means of logical reasoning, real-time status identification of relevant pipeline equipment, and leak diagnosis through coupling analysis. Field applications have proved that this method is more capable of detecting minor pipeline leaks with high efficiency by effectively removing the possibility of false alarm of leak caused by abnormality of pump unit and reducing other false alarms in leak detection. It provides a new technique and concept for ensuring the stability of pipeline system.