Methods and tips for finding PE pipe leaks

In modern urbanization, PE (polyethylene) pipes are often widely used in water supply, drainage and natural gas. However, after long-term use, PE pipes may develop leaks due to various reasons. Timely and accurate identification of leaks is crucial to repairing the pipes, avoiding water wastage and ensuring proper operation. This article will introduce several common methods and techniques to find PE pipeline leaks.

I. External observation method

Visual observation: First, check whether there are obvious signs of breakage, cracking or leakage on the external surface of PE pipes. Never ignore the subtle water stain lines, wet areas or damp soil, which may indicate the existence of leaks.

Sound Detection: You can look for unusual noises by listening carefully to the sounds around PE pipes. Leaks produce a special flowing sound, and you can use a stethoscope or sound amplification equipment to detect and locate leaks when the pipe is under pressure.

Second, the pressure test method

Positive pressure test: pressurize the piping system to a certain level and observe the change of the pressure gauge. If the pressure drops rapidly, it means that there may be a leak point, at this time, you can investigate section by section, and use foam or soapy water to detect bubbles or gas seepage to help determine the location of the leak.

Negative pressure test: Pump a vacuum in the piping system, then observe the change in the manometer. If the pressure rises, it means there may be ambient air entering the piping system, which means there is a leak.

Third, infrared thermal imaging method

Use infrared thermal imaging camera to scan PE pipes and find out the location of water leakage by detecting temperature changes. Since a leak will lead to a local temperature increase, the infrared camera is able to reveal different thermal zones to locate the leak. This method is suitable for a larger range of piping systems as well as buried pipes.

Four, compressed air detection method

Using compressed air jet pipe, inject a certain pressure of air into the PE pipe and observe whether bubbles are generated around the leak location. Soapy water or foam can be used to coat the surface of the pipe, and when bubbles appear, the leak can be accurately located.

V. Professional testing equipment

The principle is "when there is a leak, the pressure water will be sprayed outward from the crack of the pipe, and the vibration caused by the friction between the pressure water and the rupture gap of the pipe will cause the spraying noise. It will spread along the pipe to both sides and diffusive way to the ground" with the detection instrument sensor above the road surface of the pipe to detect, to find the purpose of the leak.

Conclusion:

For PE pipeline leakage problem, early detection and quick location of the leakage point is crucial. Through the use of external observation method, pressure test method, infrared thermal imaging method, compressed air detection method and professional testing equipment, we can effectively identify PE pipeline leakage points and provide accurate information and guidance for rehabilitation work. In practice, suitable methods can be selected according to the specific situation to locate water leakage points to ensure the reliable operation of the pipeline system and the reasonable use of water resources.