Patent ID: 6134949
Filing Date: 2000-10-24
Classification: F16K,G01M

Abstract:
A method for use with a fluid transport system having an upstream pipe, a downstream pipe and a valve connected between the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe for controlling fluid flow through the system, the valve having at least one upstream seal, at least one downstream seal and an inner cavity effectively isolated by the seals from the fluid flow stream, the method for detecting the presence of a leak in both of the seals when the valve is closed and a differential pressure exists across the valve, comprising the steps of:determining the magnitude of the differential pressure across the valve;sensing the presence of pressure pulsations within the inner cavity resulting from fluid flowing through the seals into and out of the inner cavity and generating representative electrical signals as a function of time;analyzing the electrical signals and generating an auto spectrum representation; andusing the auto spectrum in conjunction with the determined differential pressure magnitude to indicate the existence and extent of a leak.