Frequency responses of single and multiple partial pipeline blockages

Abstract

The discrete Fourier transform (FT) of the peak pressure frequency response (PPFR) at a downstream valve generated by the transfer matrix method is used to detect a partial pipeline blockage. The location of this blockage is detected by locating the peak in the FT of the PPFR. This is also valid if multiple partial blockages are present. A methodology to detect individual blockage sizes is presented for single and double partial blockages. Yet, the present methodology is unsuccessful to predict the individual sizes if there are more than two partial blockages. However, the combined size of the partial blockages is detected by the magnitude of the zeroth frequency. In addition, special cases of partial blockage are presented to indicate the limitations of the present methodology.

Keywords:

• Frequency domain
• periodic flow
• pipe blockage
• pipe flow
• piping system

Additional information

Notes on contributors

M. Hanif Chaudhry

(IAHR Member), Mr and Mrs Irwin B. Kahn Professor, Associate Dean (International Program and Continuing Education)