Understanding Acoustic Emission Testing- Reading 1 Part B-A

Active approach to leak detection
The water systems managed by ASM, whose extension is around 2,200 km
are constructed mainly of ductile iron and cast iron pipes. Over 120 boreholes
and 30 spring sources supply the networks delivering to users a total of 47
million mc a year. Since 1988, ASM BRESCIA S.p.A. has been engaged in
an active program of leakage reduction.
Various methods of leakage monitoring and detection have been employed
by ASM. They include:
• District metering technique and step testing (using quadrina insertion flow
meters and data loggers)
• Leak detection and location using leak noise correlators
• Area surveys using acoustic loggers (Aqualogs)
• Analysis of the results by the Company's Maintenance Database
ASM's commitment to leakage reduction is demonstrated by the reduced
level of leakage achieved in many of the managed water networks.
Charlie Chong/ Fion Zhang
http://www.ndt.net/article/wcndt00/papers/idn183/idn183.htm