Blockage detection device and related system for unblocking drain pipes

摘要

A system to detect blockages in drains and pipes and determine if the blockage Is due to freezing or foreign debris is described. Additionally in the event of the blockage being due to freezing the system is able to thaw the frozen liquid. The system also protects a run of pipe work installed in an environment liable to freezing or blockages. The system comprises a combined heater and temperature sensor 4 a controller 5 a combined reservoir and expansion vessel 1 and level sensors 2 & 3. The combined heater and temperature sensor 4 Is inserted through a port 11 into the top of the a combined reservoir and expansion vessel 1 and either exits the reservoir from a second port 12 and is fixed externally to the pipe work run 22 or continues along the inside of the pipe work, terminating at the end of the pipe work run. In the event of a blockage the fluid expelled from apparatus connected to the input port 13 will back up into the combined reservoir and expansion vessel 1, in turn the blockage detect fluid level sensor 2 will activate Informing the controller that there is a blockage in the pipe run.