When you are experiencing leaks in your home, but you don’t know where it’s coming from, you need to hire the services of a professional plumber in Cape Town to conduct leak detection. There are many types of leak detection methods and devices depending on every situation and an experienced plumber would know what to use. Some of these methods include: visual inspection, acoustic test, helium test, hydrostatic test, smoke detection and CCTV and infrared imaging. Through the years, technology has improved when it comes to detective water leaks and it can be applied to both residential and commercial applications.
If you’re doing your own research about leak detection, you’ve probably come across with a device called “Leak Detection Pump”. So what is it?
A Leak Detection Pump is a manual or electric testing pump that measures the pressure rating of water lines in a process called hydrostatic testing. They come in different sizes and in different bar or pressure per square inch (psi). They help monitor the pressure of new or existing water lines, gas lines or fuel tanks to see if the desired pressure is achieved and if there are any leaks. Hydrotesting is very important because it can detect if the piping installation is defective and if the overall system is functioning properly.
You can even find a leak detection pump inside your car or vehicle. It identifies if there is leakage in the fuel pipelines and sends a notification to the engine control module on your dashboard. Hence, it is incredibly helpful to all of us in terms of safety.
Only someone who is technically capable should handle a leak detection pump, and that someone would be your trusted plumber. It is also not recommended for you to buy one as it is a costly investment.
Table of Contents
Pump Parts
A manual pump is composed of a pressure valve, shut-off valve, purge valve, locking hook, handle and tank. The electrical pump does not have a handle and will have to be connected to a power supply.
Operation
To operate, the pressure hose will first have to be connected to the tank. And then the hose will be connected to one or more points of the existing pipeline. Once connected, liquid will be pumped into the pipeline by moving the handle in an up-down motion. The liquid used in usually water, colored water to see leaks more easily, or oil. Under no circumstances should harmful liquids like acids be used. The liquid will be pumped continuously until desired pressure has been achieved and then all valves will be closed. This is when the pressure is monitored. If there are no leaks, then the pressure should remain the same. If there is a leak, there will be a drop in pressure.
Maintenance
The leak detection pump should be cleaned regularly and the suction pipe should be used with a filter to prevent dirt from entering. The piston should be greased for smooth operation every time. The pump should also be checked for damage before using, or else the reading would be inconclusive.
