Investigation of acoustic leak imaging method for detecting multiple gas leakage points

This paper proposes an acoustic imaging-based method for multi-point gas leakage detection and presents algorithmic validation. To address the low efficiency of leakage localization in oil and gas facilities, the swept-frequency Delay-and Sum (DAS) algorithm is innovatively introduced. By analyzing the frequency characteristics and sound pressure level of turbulent acoustic waves generated by gas leakage, this approach overcomes the limitations of traditional singlefrequency detection techniques. Algorithm validation was conducted using a 32-sensor circular array under conditions of 0.6 MPa pressure and leakage apertures ranging from 0.5 to 1 mm. The method successfully simultaneously localized three leakage points with different frequencies (15~26 kHz). Compared to conventional non-swept-frequency algorithms that can only identify single leakage points, the detection efficiency is significantly improved. The proposed method offers a novel solution for preventing safety risks in oil and gas storage and transportation, effectively reducing the risk of gas leakage-induced explosions.