Methods and apparatus for determining the presence or absence of a fluid leak

摘要

A pumping apparatus for pumping fluid comprises at least two pump chambers, two inlet valves and two outlet valves. The pump chambers comprise a first pump chamber and a second pump chamber, said first pump chamber and second pump chamber in parallel with said first pump chamber receiving fluid from a fluid supply via a first inlet valve and said second pump chamber receiving fluid from a fluid supply via a second inlet valve. The first pump chamber discharges said fluid via a first outlet check valve and said second pump chamber discharges said fluid via a second outlet check valve. The apparatus comprises further at least one motor for powering said pistons in said pump chambers, said motor operating in pumping mode upon receiving a pumping signal, and at least one inlet valve in fluid communication with said inlet of said pump chambers, said inlet valve having an open position and a closed position. The apparatus comprises further at least one switchable valve in fluid communication with said outlet of said pump chambers, at least one first pressure measuring device and control means for detecting leaks or defects.