Method and apparatus for monitoring a fluid conduit system

摘要

The method and apparatus is directed to monitoring a fluid conduit system for leaks, particularly a leakage flow of less than 25 liters per hour. After closing a main valve that fluidly connects a fluid source to the conduit system, the time is measured for the pressure in the conduit system to drop to a predetermined first value. Upon reaching the first value a shunt valve is opened and the time is measured for the pressure to rise to a second predetermined value. The leakage flow is calculated from the two measured times and the two pressures together with known constants for the control system. In place of providing the shunt valve the main valve may be partially opened. Controls for the valves are provided together with evaluating apparatus for determining the leakage volume.