SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING A LEAK RATE THROUGH AN OPENING USING ACOUSTICAL SENSORS

摘要

Disclosed herein are various implementations of systems and methods for improving the process and accuracy of converting acoustical signals to leak rates through a structure, such as a closed valve or coupling, using filtering techniques and modal analysis. These systems and methods may be useful for verifying the accuracy of the conventional approaches and inventive processes and systems for improving leak rate quantification using acoustic emissions. For example, a testing apparatus for simulating a leak through a structure and methods for correlating an acoustical signal with a leak rate are disclosed. The information gathered from the testing apparatus and/or correlation methods may be used in the field to determine more accurately the leak rate of a fluid or gas through the structure.

主权项

1. A method of determining the leak rate of a fluid or gas through at least one opening in a structure comprising the steps of:
receiving at least one acoustical signal from at least one acoustical sensor positioned a known distance from a structure, the acoustical signal being associated with a leak through the at least one opening in the structure; receiving a low frequency component and a high frequency component of the acoustical signal; calculating a ratio of the low frequency component to the high frequency component; and identifying a leak rate associated with the calculated ratio.