Numerical simulation and experimental study on hydrodynamic noise for water pipeline network

ABSTRACT

Schematic summary of the hydrodynamic-noise study in a water pipeline network. The graphic shows the sound-pressure model for hydrodynamic noise, acoustic boundary element simulations of a leaking pipe and a ball-valve pipe, and experimental measurements of leakage sound waves and ball-valve hydrodynamic noise. The results indicate that hydrodynamic noise generated by pipeline accessories has measurable sound-pressure intensity and may interfere with acoustic leak detection.

The water pipeline network is a crucial component of water infrastructure. However, harmful substances inside buried water pipelines can lead to wear, corrosion, and perforation, resulting in leakage incidents. These leaks not only waste water resources but also pose significant environmental pollution risks. In the field of pipeline leak detection, external wall acoustic detection is predominant; however, traditional methods often overlook the hydrodynamic noise generated by pipeline accessory facilities, which can diminish the accuracy of leak location. This article applies the principles of fluid dynamic acoustics to develop a sound pressure model for hydrodynamic noise. Utilizing acoustic boundary element numerical simulation, the sound pressure model for hydrodynamic noise is iteratively solved, revealing significant sound pressure intensity characteristics. Through pipeline testing, we analyse the spectral characteristics of leakage sound waves and hydrodynamic noise. Our findings indicate that hydrodynamic noise significantly interferes with the leak location process in water pipelines and should be filtered out to enhance the accuracy of leak detection.