In many buildings that have been refurbished over time or where extensions have been added, new plumbing solutions are often introduced – and this usually also means additions or complex reroutes to installed lines that were approved in the original plans. When it comes to leak detection, contractors may well be challenged to find the leak amid a confusing array of new lines and unused pipes and cabling.
However, according to SA Leak Detection Distributors, with advanced technology detecting leaks or locating lines need no longer be complex problems for trained contractors.
Deon Pohorille of SA Leak Detection Distributors, sole distributor of Sewerin leak detection equipment, says, “Technologically advanced equipment can be used to determine the location and the nature of the leak and trained contractors can do this in a fraction of the time that it used to take, although this will depend on the strength and nature of the leak.”
With sophisticated acoustic and gas leak detection equipment, almost any leak can be detected by a qualified contractor. Pohorille says the contractor should determine which method will best serve a specific site and search.
Acoustic equipment works on the basis that all leaks create a noise. With digital electroacoustic equipment and ground microphones, the contractor can hear the noise and accurately locate the leak. Microphones or noise loggers can be attached to the water pipe or pipes to identify the noise and feed precise data into the system. The data is correlated to determine where the leak is.
Tracer gas, containing hydrogen and nitrogen, can also be used to locate a leak. When it is introduced to the water pipe, the gas escapes from the leak and is detected by a gas detector instrument. This method of leak detection is highly effective inside buildings.
Sophisticated CCTV mini-cam systems provide a live view and can accurately pinpoint leaks, damages or blockages in water pipes. A flexible push rod allows the camera to be pushed easily through bends that there may be in the pipe.
Pohorille emphasises that locating pipes is a critical first step in leak detection and can prevent unnecessary costs. Pipe location equipment can be used to trace and differentiate between PVC and other non-metallic pipes.
He says that all this equipment is available and should be used to protect and conserve water as a most precious resource.
