Multiple leak detection algorithm for pipe network

In this work, several important issues and solutions are considered in order to develop a method for multiple leak detection in pipe network systems. To relax the model complexity and ameliorate parsimony problems, a mathematical formulation of the occurrence of multiple leaks in a pipe network is proposed, which also provides flexibility for multiple leak representation. To identify the leakage signal from the complex pressure variation of a pipe network, a decomposition scheme to obtain a pressure signal from a transient wave according to its interaction with multiple leaks is developed. Considering the wave transmission characteristics of a disturbed pressure wave obtained for a leak in a pipeline element by a pressure sensor, a sequential leak detection algorithm (composed of single and dual path algorithms) for application to the identified leakage signal is developed. While the single path algorithm uses the principle of time domain reflectometry, the dual path algorithm extends the pressure responses to address multiple pressure pathways. A multiple leak detection example for a heterogeneous pipe network demonstrates the potential of the developed methods and, also, addresses the nonlinear interaction between multiple leaks and the pipe network structure. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.