 LEAK DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING A LEAK IN A PRESSURE SYSTEM BY SETTING A VOLUME
专利摘要:
Leak Detection System and Method A leak detection system includes a pressure system that requires leak and/or pressure tests to be performed. a pressure sensor coupled to the pressure system detects a first pressure at time time0, after which the fluid pumping system supplies a selected volume of test fluid to the pressure system. the pressure sensor detects a test pressure at time1 and at selected intervals from 'n' to time(n+1) and transmits a reflective signal of the pressures at each time to a general purpose computer for recording and storage on a readable medium. computer. an operating program is configured so as to calculate a leak detection value, which is a function of a ratio of the first pressure at time time0 and the test pressure at time time1; the test pressure in time time1 and the test pressure in time 2 ; and so on until a test pressure in timen and a test pressure in time(n+1). a graphical output is configured to display the leak detection value as a function of time. 公开号:BR112012003541B1 申请号:R112012003541-0 申请日:2010-07-09 公开日:2021-07-13 发明作者:Charles M. Franklin 申请人:Charles M. Franklin； IPC主号:
专利说明:
PRIORITY CLAIM [001] The present application claims the benefit and priority of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 61/234,736, filed August 18, 2009, and entitled "System and Method for Detecting Leaks", as well as the Application United States Provisional Patent No. 61/311 863, filed March 9, 2010, and entitled "System and Method for Detecting Leaks", each of which is incorporated in its entirety for all purposes hereby. . FIELD [002] The embodiments of the present invention relate to systems and methods for detecting leakage and for testing the integrity of a pressure system, examples of which include various systems configured to retain and/or transport fluids, such as liquids and gases. Non-limiting examples of such pressure systems include piping, storage vessels, hydraulic/fluid piping, valves, seals, and other similar systems designed to retain a fluid, whether it is a gas, a liquid, or a combination thereof. FUNDAMENTALS [003] Tubes, valves, seals, containers, tanks, receivers, pressure vessels, pipes, ducts, heat exchangers, and other similar components are normally configured so as to retain liquids and/or transport fluids under pressure. For the purposes of the present application, these different components are referred to as a pressure system and comprise one or more of the above components and their equivalents and optionally include other components. A non-limiting example of a pressure system includes a pipeline for transporting natural gas or other hydrocarbons. Another non-limiting example is a natural gas and/or oil well and/or wells of other types, whether actively drilled or already in production, that typically transport fluids from the production geological formation to a wellhead. Such a well includes one or more of the following components: a Christmas tree or wellhead; a production pipeline; casings; drill pipe; overflow safety systems; finishing equipment; winding pipe; damping equipment, in addition to other typical and similar components. Yet another non-limiting example includes hydraulic and fuel lines of various types for transporting fluids for use in mechanical devices. Yet another non-limiting example includes storage containers for retaining fluid therein. Other pressure systems fall within the scope of the present invention. [004] Liquids trapped or transported within pressure systems typically include one or more gases, liquids, or combinations thereof, including any solid components entrained within the fluid. As a non-limiting example, a typical fluid comprises methane or natural gas, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, natural gas liquids, water, or the like. Another non-limiting example is crude oil, which typically includes methane, propane, octane, and longer chain hydrocarbons, including heavy oil/asphaltenes. Yet another non-limiting example is hydraulic fluid within a hydraulic pipeline. [005] The pressure systems and/or the individual components that make up the system, typically are tested to ensure that the pressure system has no leakage and/or that the pressure system is capable of maintaining pressure integrity. For example, a pressure system is typically pressure tested to ensure that the fluid system is capable of holding the fluid held within it at a selected pressure (for example, a maximum pressure rating or maximum rated pressure) without leakage or leaking fluid from the pressure system. [006] It should be understood that, with respect to fluids and gases that exhibit a potentially significant change in pressure as a function of fluid temperature, it may be difficult to determine whether a change in pressure typically, though not necessarily, a decrease in pressure in a pressure system is merely the result of the change in fluid temperature, or is the result of a leak somewhere within the pressure system. For example, a fixed volume of a synthetic drilling fluid in a suitable pressure vessel/container used in oil and gas drilling exhibits a decreasing pressure as a function of temperature. Depending on the drilling fluid involved, pressure can vary very significantly with temperature. In offshore deepwater drilling, where the drilling fluid is at a temperature of between 26.6°C to 48.8°C (80°F to 120oF) at the surface, the temperature fluctuation can be very large. For example, the fluid cools as it passes from the drilling rig, through the drill pipe and/or riser that is enveloped by the ocean, to a wellhead or overflow safety system that may be several thousands of meters below the sea surface or on the sea floor, where the surrounding, ambient water temperature can be as low as 1.1°C (34°F). Therefore, there is a rapid and large transfer of thermal energy from the drilling fluid, through the containment drill pipe and/or riser column to the surrounding ocean, which in turn causes a decrease at times the pressure of the fluid trapped within the pressure system. One problem is to distinguish this pressure drop caused by the temperature drop from a pressure drop caused by a leak within the pressure system, allowing the fluid trapped therein to leak out. [007] In order to solve this problem of distinguishing the cause of the pressure drop, pressure system operators often maintain a test pressure within the pressure system for a significant period of time, ranging from 10 minutes longer one hour, until a steady-state test pressure is reached (that is, one in which the test pressure changes very little over time). That is, it may be that only after a steady-state pressure is reached can an operator be certain that a decrease in pressure will have been the result of the fluid cooling through a heat transfer from the fluid to the sea and/ or other surroundings, and not because of a leak. [008] In addition, tests may be repeated multiple times in order to exclude various factors that affect the test results, such as how the test fluid is added, errors in the test procedure, additional confirmation for warranty, or thing like that. The result is that significant and often unnecessary time is spent performing leak/pressure tests. This becomes very expensive as tests can take 12 to 24 hours to complete, when, for example, a ship or offshore drilling rig pays a rent of $800,000 per day. In this way, it will be possible to save a great deal of time and money if a more efficient and accurate leak detection system and method is found. [009] Other methods, including those that require complex calculations, differential equations that calculate an equation in order to adjust the observed data, or the like, have been proposed in order to reduce the time it takes to conduct a test. leakage / pressure. These older tests, however, are typically based on models that require accurate input of various pressure system details, meticulous testing protocols that must be strictly adhered to, and highly trained personnel. In turn, such systems can be impractical in many applications. [010] Therefore, there is a need for a system that can accurately perform a leak / pressure test, particularly for fluids, including gases, that demonstrates a change in pressure with a change in temperature, that is simple, and does not require of complex models or enough data to solve differential equations. SUMMARY [011] It is to be understood that the present invention includes a variety of different versions or embodiments, and this Summary is not intended to be limiting or all-inclusive. This Summary provides some general descriptions of some modalities, but may also include some more specific descriptions of other modalities. [012] Modalities of a leak detection system include a pressure system configured so as to maintain a first volume of a fluid at a first pressure at an initial time, timeO. Optionally, the first volume is equal to zero, that is, the pressure system does not hold any fluid (except ambient air, for example) at a time 0 and therefore the first pressure is ambient or atmospheric and considered to be approximately zero. A fluid pumping unit is coupled to the pressure system, non-limiting examples of which include cementing units, pumps of various types (eg, centrifugal, duplex, triplex, positive displacement and eductors) all powered by an appropriate means (by eg hydraulic, electrical, or any other energy source suitable for running a pump), and other devices such as a syringe or pipette to supply fluid to a pressure system of a very small volume that can be found in laboratory equipment or the like. The fluid pump unit is configured to supply a selected volume of a test fluid to the pressure system. The volume of test fluid depends, in part, on the size of the pressure system, and can be from small amounts, such as microliters for laboratory equipment, to large amounts, such as barrels or more, for large pressure systems. dimensions, as can be expected with pipelines and oil wells. The addition of the test fluid to the pressure system increases the pressure at which the fluid within the pressure system is confined, such that a test pressure (that is, the pressure within the pressure system after the test be added to the pressure system) at a time is greater than the first pressure at timeO. Test pressure shows a change in pressure, such as a decrease in pressure, as time passes, as the temperature of the fluid (both the test fluid and the first fluid) decreases with time. In other words, the test pressure decreases over a time interval 0 to a time regardless of whether any leaks are present within the pressure system. [013] Leak detection system modalities also include a general purpose computer configured to accept and store an operating program and data as a function of time on a computer readable medium such as a hard disk, a flash memory, compact discs, data tapes, or the like. At least one pressure sensor is coupled to the pressure system and general purpose computer. The pressure sensor is configured to detect the first pressure and test pressure at time t0, tempol, time2, in a time(n+1), and transmit a reflective signal of the first pressure and test pressures at each one of the times for the computer to be stored on computer readable medium. [014] Operational program modalities are configured in order to calculate a leak detection value, which is a function of a variance of a percentage change in pressure over time, such as the percentage change in a difference in first pressure in timeO and in the test pressure in timel; the test pressure in timel and the test pressure in time2, and so on, for a given plurality of time intervals 'n' for a test pressure in timen and the test pressure in time(n+1). A benefit of the present method is its relative simplicity and precision and the fact that it does not need complex formulas or equipment to use it. [015] System modalities also include a visual output coupled to the general purpose computer. The visual output is configured to display the leak detection value as a function of time. Examples of visual output include monitors, prints generated by a printer, web pages that receive the leak detection value transmission through a server or other Internet connected to the general purpose computer, dedicated videos and/or simple (dumb) terminals , or something like that. [016] Methods of using the system described above for leak detection are also presented. [017] As used in this document, terms such as "at least one", "one or more" and "and/or" are open expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions "at least one out of A, B and C", "at least one out of A, B or C", "one or more out of A, B and C", "one or more out of A, B, or C" and "A, B, and/or C" means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together. [018] Various embodiments of the present invention are defined in the attached figures and detailed description, as provided in the present invention and as incorporated by the claims. It should be understood, however, that the present Summary does not contain all aspects and embodiments of one or more present inventions, is not intended to be limiting or restrictive in any way, and that the invention as presented herein shall and shall be understood by those with current knowledge in the art to cover obvious improvements and modifications thereto. [019] Additional advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following presentation, in particular when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [020] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [021] In order to clarify the above advantages and other advantages and characteristics of one or more present inventions, reference is made to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The drawings only show typical modalities and therefore should not be considered limiting. One or more embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of the leak detection system; Figure 2 is an example of an embodiment of the leak detection system used to test a safety system against an oil rig overflow; Figure 3 is an example of a graph of current raw data created by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is an example of a graph of a series of leak detection values calculated from the raw data shown in Figure 3; Figure 5 is an example of a graph of current raw data created by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 is an example of a graph of a series of leak detection values calculated from the raw data shown in Figure 5; Figure 7 is a flowchart of an embodiment of the leak detection method; Figure 8 is a continuation of the flowchart of Figure 7 of an embodiment of the leak detection method; and, Figure 9 is an example of a graph of current raw data in Figure 3 with different and additional aspects noted when referring to another embodiment of the present invention. [022] The drawings are not necessarily to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [023] A block diagram of an embodiment of the leak detection system 1 of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 1. The leak detection system 1 includes a pressure system 5. Tubes, valves, seals, containers, vessels, heat exchangers, pumps, ducts, ducts and other similar components are typically configured to retain and/or transport fluids within these items. For the purposes of the present application, these different components are referred to as a pressure system 5 and comprise one or more of the above components and their equivalents and optionally other components. A non-limiting example of a pressure system includes piping for the transport of natural gas or other hydrocarbons or other fluids. Another non-limiting example is a natural gas or oil well, a CO2 well, a water well, a disposal well or the like, whether it is actively drilled or already in production, which typically includes one or more of the following components: a Christmas tree or wellhead; a production pipeline; a casing; a drill pipe; overflow safety systems; in addition to other fluid system components necessary or appropriate for use in an oil well drilling or production system, as well as the subcomponents of each of these items, which optionally can be hydraulically isolated and individually tested, and, in some cases, they may include the raw well (ie uncoated) and the surrounding rock or geological formation. Yet another non-limiting example includes hydraulic and fuel lines of various types for transporting fluids for use in mechanical devices. Yet another non-limiting example includes storage containers for retaining fluid therein. Other pressure systems for transporting or retaining fluids fall within the scope of the present invention. [024] The fluids retained or transported within the modalities of pressure systems 5 typically include one or more gases, liquids, or combinations thereof, including any solid components entrained within the fluid. As a non-limiting example, a typical fluid comprises one or more of methane, natural gas, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, natural gas, liquids, or the like. Another non-limiting example is crude oil, which typically includes methane, propane, octane, and longer chain hydrocarbons, including heavy oil/asphaltenes. In the example of an exploration oil or gas well, the fluids typically include drilling fluids, wasted circulating materials, miscellaneous solids, drilled formation solids, and formation fluids and gases. Yet another non-limiting example is hydraulic fluid within a hydraulic pipeline. Other examples of such fluids include test fluids specifically chosen for testing, including, but not limited to, viscous water. Other fluids, whether a liquid or a gas, fall within the scope of the present invention. [025] A fluid pumping unit 10 is an optional component of the leak detection system, non-limiting examples of which include cementing units, pumps of various types (eg, centrifuge, duplex, triplex, positive displacement, eductors) powered by any suitable power source (eg hydraulic, electrical, mechanical). The fluid pumping unit 10 is coupled to the pressure system 5. The fluid pumping unit 10 is configured to supply a selected volume of a test fluid from a fluid source or reservoir to the pressure system. 5. The test fluid, as already noted, is optionally selected specifically for the test, such as a viscosified water, or a fluid of the type already present in pressure system 5, or other combinations thereof. The volume of test fluid selected depends, in part, on the size or total volume of the pressure system 5, and can be from small amounts, such as microliters for laboratory equipment, to large amounts, such as barrels (ie. , 42 gallons per barrel) or more, for large pressure systems, as might be expected in pipelines or oil and gas wells. The addition of the test fluid to the pressure system 5 raises the pressure at which the fluid within the pressure system 5 is confined, such that a test pressure (i.e., the pressure within the pressure system after the test fluid being added to the pressure system) at time becomes greater than the initial pressure of the fluid in pressure system 5 at timeO. [026] Optionally, a flowmeter 30, such as a Venturi flowmeter, a pressure flowmeter, time counter (calibrated to the volume/time of a given positive displacement pump), impeller flowmeters, or the like or as the case may be, are coupled to the fluid pumping unit 10 in order to detect the amount of fluid to be added to the pressure system 5. The flowmeter 30 optionally displays a reflective fluid flow signal, such as a flow rate. , through meters and/or digital displays. Flowmeter 30 optionally transmits a reflective flow rate signal to a general purpose computer 15, typically via sensor cables. While Figure 1 shows the flowmeter that transmits a signal through sensor cables, it is contemplated that the flowmeter 30 can be configured to transmit the signal wirelessly or even be connected to the Internet for transmission to a remote general purpose computer 15 configured to receive wireless and/or Internet signals. [027] The leak detection system 1 further includes at least one pressure sensor 20 coupled to the pressure system 5. The pressure sensor 20 is configured so as to detect an initial fluid pressure within the pressure system 5 at an initial time time0, as well as at subsequent times over an interval 'n' of dwell time to time(n+1). Pressure sensor 20 optionally displays a reflective signal of fluid pressure within pressure system 5 via gauges and/or digital displays. Pressure sensor 20 transmits a reflective pressure signal to a general purpose computer 15, typically via sensor cables, although it is contemplated that pressure sensor 20 may be configured to transmit the signal wirelessly. Of course, the signals can be sent via a physical wired system, a wireless system, or by other suitable means, such as via the Internet to the general purpose computer 15, if so configured. Pressure sensor 20 is typically selected for particular operating conditions, such as an expected pressure and temperature range for the fluid within pressure system 5. For example, a pressure sensor 20 selected for use in a pressure system. The pressure that is part of an oil well, such as an overflow safety system, would be able to detect a pressure in a range of 0 to 103.42MPa (0 to 15,000 pounds per square inch) and detect a temperature in a range from -4.44°C to 121.1°C (-40°F to 250°F). A non-limiting example of such a pressure sensor 20 includes Models 509, 709, and 809 Pressure Transducers, available from Viatran, a company of Dynisco, of Grand Island, NY. Other pressure sensors 20 suitable for the expected pressure and temperature conditions are found within the pressure system 5 also fall within the scope of the present invention. [028] The leak detection system modalities further include a general purpose computer 15. A general purpose computer 15 may include laptop computers, desktop computers, netbooks and tablets, personal digital assistants, calculators (programmable or not), in addition to other similar devices, and may be located at the test site or remote from the site. General purpose computer 15 is configured to accept and store an operating program configured to receive reflective pressure and temperature data, and manipulate and display the data as a function of time on a computer readable medium such as a hard disk, a flash memory, data tapes, jump drives (USB memory), a remote storage, such as a cloud computing with a server or data servers, or the like, for later sending to the user in a format suitable visual / readable. Optionally, the general purpose computer 15 is configured to receive and transmit data wirelessly or via an Internet connection 27 which, in turn, is connected to another visual output 28 and/or to the described general purpose computer in more detail below. Other embodiments of the present invention include a purpose-built computer configured to process the pressure and temperature signals from the sensor 20, rather than a general-purpose computer 15. The purpose-built computer will have an operating program recorded on a chip instruction-specific computer memory, such as read-only programmable memory, read-only externally programmable memory, read-only externally-erasable programmable memory, and/or hard-wired into an instruction-specific computer chip. [029] The operational program modalities, as will be described in more detail below, are configured in order to calculate a leak detection value, which is a function of a variance of the first pressure in timeO and the pressure test in time; the test pressure over time and the test pressure over time2; and so on for one and/or more time intervals 'n' for a test pressure in time(n+1) and for a test pressure in time(n+1). A benefit of this previously unknown method is its relative simplicity and accuracy. [030] Leak detection system modalities 1 also include a visual output 25 coupled to a general purpose computer 15. Visual output 25 is any suitable device configured to display temperature and pressure data to the user as well as the leak detection value as a function of time, such as a graph. Non-limiting examples of good visuals include scatter charts, line charts, and pie chart recorders that emulate analog pie chart recorders. Examples of visual output include monitors, prints generated by a printer, web pages that receive the leak detection value that is transmitted through a server or other Internet connection attached to a general purpose computer 15, or any other type of dedicated monitor and/or simple terminals. [031] As mentioned above, the test pressure exhibits a change in pressure over time as an effect of a fluid temperature (both the test fluid and the first fluid) that changes over time. In other words, the test pressure changes over a time interval0 to a time(n+1), regardless of whether a leak or leaks occur within the pressure system, and often changes at a rate exponential. This effect is particularly notable with synthetic fluids composed of long-chain hydrocarbon molecules that are compressible to a modest degree under pressure. The net effect is that it can be difficult to quickly determine whether a pressure drop is caused by a leak or simply caused by a drop in pressure as the drilling fluid cools and the thermal compression effect decreases. As a result, and as will be illustrated, it is typical practice to maintain the pressure system at an elevated pressure for long periods of time until a steady state pressure is reached. In other words, the temperature and hence the pressure of the fluid inside the drilling system reaches a relatively constant steady state. In large pressure systems such as pipelines or oil or gas wells, it can take more than an hour for the pressure system to reach a constant steady state pressure such that federal standards for testing such systems are satisfied. It should be noted that it is now understood that existing federal regulations do not require testing to take place for such an extended period, only that the uncertainty caused by the effects of temperature and compressibility causes operators to increase the testing period in order to ensure a valid reading that meets federal standards. As a result, it was observed that significant time is wasted, which, on the contrary, could be avoided if a test were available that could quickly assess the pressure system and present the effects of temperature and compressibility without the need for elaborate models, algorithms complex, detailed and rigorous test plans, or the like. [032] An operating program for the general purpose computer 15 (or physically connected to a silicon chip in a specific computer) uses an equation, as follows: Leak Detection Value = (1 - Time pressure / Time pressure) x 100. [033] It should be understood that multiplying the value by 100 creates a value greater than one, rather than a decimal value less than one, and therefore is optional depending on user preference. From the above, it can be seen that the leak detection value is a function of the variance of a pressure of a fluid in the pressure system plus the additional volume selected from the test fluid added to the pressure system in a first tempoo and the pressure in a second tempo . The general purpose computer reads these values as stored on the computer readable medium, which were previously sent by the pressure sensor. Of course, it should be understood that the operating program can read the data and calculate the leak detection value almost simultaneously with the pressure measurement by the pressure sensor or, in other words, in real time. When a single leak detection value is calculated, it is stored in the computer-readable medium for future use and recall, either as displayed in visual output or to be used in other calculations. The leak detection value is then calculated for subsequent time intervals and test pressures, such as in times∑ and times, and through the test pressure in tempon and time/n+tj, the test pressures in each of these times typically exhibiting a lower pressure than in the immediately preceding periods and exhibiting an exponential rate of disappearance (within error and noise limits in the measurement of the test pressure by the pressure sensor). [034] The time interval at which the test pressure is detected or measured typically occurs over a relatively short period of time, such as every 3 seconds, 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds or the like. Of course, other time intervals may be selected and fall within the scope of the present invention, including intervals of less than one second to about or about 30 minutes. Shorter periods typically work best for test pressures that decrease exponentially, particularly if there is an acute temperature gradient between the fluid within the pressure system and the ambient temperature surrounding the pressure system. It is contemplated that test pressure data acquired and stored on computer readable medium optionally undergo some form of data smoothing or normalization process in order to eliminate data spikes or transients. For example, you can use procedures to perform a moving 3-point average, a curve fit, and other data smoothing techniques of this type, before using that average to calculate a leak detection value. This allows for a smoother and potentially more readable and accurate representation of the leak detection value with less interference noise and spurious signals. [035] Method modalities include the provision of the components described above, namely, a pressure system 5, a fluid pumping unit 10, a general purpose computer 15, at least one pressure sensor 20, and an output visual 25, as described above, and, optionally, an Internet or wireless connection 27 connected to another visual output 28, and a flowmeter 30 coupled to the fluid pumping unit 10. [036] To perform a leak detection test and calculate the leak detection value, reference is made to flowcharts 700 and 800 of Figures 7 and 8. The fluid pumping unit 10 is coupled to the pressure system 5 of so that the fluid pumping unit 10 can pump or introduce a selected volume of test fluid into the pressure system 5, as shown in box 705 of Figure 7, such that the fluid within the pressure system 5 is at a test pressure, or Ptest, which is at or above a lower pressure limit, or Pthreshold. The pressure system must maintain Ptest pressure, without leakage. It should be understood that pressure system 5 may already have a volume of fluid at an initial pressure below a test pressure within pressure system 5 and therefore pressure system 5 requires only a small amount, additional test fluid is added. Alternatively, the fluid pumping unit 10 is capable of filling the pressure system 5 in its entirety to its test pressure. [037] Optionally, as the fluid pumping unit 10 pumps the test fluid into the pressure system, the flowmeter 30 detects the flow rate and/or determines the volume of test fluid pumped into the pressure system 5 and transmits a reflective signal of these values to the general purpose computer 15 for recording and storage on a computer readable medium, typically with an associated timestamp or other data. Optionally, when the flow rate is detected or sensed and transmitted to the general purpose computer 15, the general purpose computer 15 can be configured to calculate the total volume pumped. Other methods for determining the flow rate and/or volume include the use of simple analog or digital time counters connected to the fluid pumping unit 10, from which the flow rate and volume of the test fluid pumped can be used. be calculated on the general purpose computer. The flow rate and total volume of the test fluid can also be shown on visual output 25, along with other optional data. [038] The pressure sensor 20 can detect the fluid pressure within the pressure system 5 and transmit a reflective pressure signal to the general purpose computer 15 before, during or after the fluid pumping unit 10 pumps the test fluid for pressure system 5, as depicted in boxes 710, 715 and 720. The operating program can be configured to automatically and/or continuously record pressure data (and other data,) on the computer-readable medium. as shown above) as soon as a certain threshold value is reached, such as a minimum pressure, a flow rate, the pumped volume, and the like, or continuously. [039] Alternatively, it is contemplated that a user manually starts the program and/or instructs it to start data logging when entering a command to that effect. As noted earlier, pressure data (and other data) can be averaged, normalized, and/or smoothed before displaying and/or using them to calculate the leak detection value. The data is optionally presented at visual output 25 or transmitted wirelessly and/or via an Internet connection 27 to another visual output 28. [040] The operating program calculates the leak detection value according to the formula above for a selected time interval, as indicated in box 725. In one modality, the computer can be configured to continuously calculate and/or recalculate a leak detection value which is the change in test pressure at time 0 and the test pressure at time 1 subtracted by one unit and multiplied by 100 to generate a reflective leak detection signal of the value of leak detection. In another embodiment, the leak detection value is a function of a variance of the test pressure over time and the test pressure over time2; the test pressure in time2 and the test pressure in time3; through the test pressure at timen and the test pressure at said time (n+1). Leak detection values can also be smoothed, such as by averaging (eg the average of 3 moving points), curve fitting, normalization techniques, continuous averaging techniques and/ or otherwise smoothed. Leak detection values are optionally recorded on computer readable medium, typically with an associated time stamp. In addition, leak detection values are optionally displayed as raw data and/or as a graphical representation or graph in visual output 25. [041] Step or box 730 prompts a decision on whether this is the initial leak detection test performed on pressure system 5. If this is the initial leak detection test, the test pressure measurements are typically done for a selected period of time, such as five, ten, 15 minutes, or more, depending on system pressure 5, in order to ensure a valid test and characterize the pressure drop and leak detection value as a function of time. In other words, the selected volume of test fluid is maintained within pressure system 5 until the test is completed and additional fluid and/or pressure introduced into the pressure system to perform the test bleeds or is released. [042] If the decision in box 730 of Figure 7 is "No", and this is not the initial leak detection test, then the decision as to the amount of calculated leak detection value is determined using flowchart 800 of Figure 8 and more specifically in box 805, which is presented in detail below. [043] If the decision in box 730 is "Yes", ie this is the initial leak detection test, then the process advances to box 740. In this step, general purpose computer 15 is configured from in order to determine if the calculated leak detection value in box 725 meets a determined or minimum leak threshold that is preset by the user. For example, it could be that a leak detection value of less than ±0.1 or ±0.2 (leak detection value is a unitless indicator) indicates a valid test. That is, any decrease in pressure from pressure system 5, as measured by pressure sensor 20, during which the test fluid is pumped or held within pressure system 5, will typically be the result of the effects of temperature and temperature. fluid pressure rather than an indication of a leak within the pressure system 5. To avoid confusion with “negative numbers, the leak detection value can be manipulated so that it is always a positive number. , the leak detection value can be multiplied by a coefficient or other factor, in the sense of always outputting a positive value (such as when multiplying any negative results by -1), for example. Another manipulation of the detection value of leakage falls within the scope of the present invention. In addition, other threshold minima for the leak detection value can be selected depending on the type of pressure system 5 to be tested ado. For example, laboratory equipment that uses very small volumes of fluid may have a lower threshold value, such as 0.05, as the effect of the temperature gradient on these small volumes will be proportionally greater. This threshold value can be viewed on a graph or dashboard with a display of calculated leak detection values as output on the graphical screen, or it could be a simple pass/fail screen, or other similar type of result. Preferably, the values are displayed graphically. [044] When the leak detection value is at the minimum leak limit value, ie box 740 answers "Yes", box 745 indicates that the operating program records this effect as a good test and the detection values Leakage tests are recorded as a standard by which future leak detection tests of the same or similar components will be evaluated. [045] In the next step 765, the method operates to determine if there are additional leak detection tests to be performed on pressure system 5, such as when testing the individual components of a pressure system 5 that are capable of to be hydraulically isolated from the other components of the pressure system 5. An example of such an instance is the testing of an oil well overflow safety system, as overflow safety systems typically include one or more annular pistons and one or more tubes, blind settlements, and/or shear plungers, each of which can be hydraulically isolated and tested separately from the other components of the overflow safety system. [046] If no further additional testing is contemplated, a leak detection test report, such as a summary of the data, the result of the test or tests, or associated graphs and/or panels may be prepared for storage on the readable medium on a computer and/or sent via the graphic display, either on the monitor or as a hard copy and/or transmitted wirelessly or via the Internet to another graphic display. This step is indicated in box 775. [047] When other leak detection tests are contemplated, indicated as box 770, preparations are made for the next test and the process starts again as indicated in box 705. [048] Returning to box 740, when the leak detection value does not reach the lower threshold value to indicate a successful test, that is, the leak detection value indicates that a leak is present or some other factor is causing that the pressure system 5 loses pressure more quickly than could be explained by the effects of temperature and compressibility, in which case the decision goes back to box 750, which indicates on the screen "Test not passed". This failure may be observed on a graph or panel with a display of calculated leak detection values as shown on the graphical screen, or it may be a simple pass/fail type display, or other display that provides a noticeable or detectable indication by part of the user. Typically, the failure is also recorded on computer readable medium so that the result can optionally be retrieved and compared to leak tests that occurred earlier, perhaps weeks and months earlier, or even longer. Of course, storage in memory allows for comparison with tests that will take place in the future. [049] Box or step 755 indicates that the source of the leak or the cause of the pressure loss has been resolved and/or repaired, with the leak detection test being repeated in step 760, as indicated by the return to the start of the method in box 705. [050] Returning to the decision in step 730, that is, if this is the initial leak detection test, when the answer is "No", the method then advances to decision or diamond 805, as indicated in flowchart 800 of Figure 8. Since this particular test is a follow-up test, ie it is not the initial leak detection test, decision step 805 compares the leak detection value with or against the stored initial leak detection values as a reference in step 745. [051] When the leak detection value is compared to the reference value and produces a result in which the leak detection value is less than or equal to the reference value, the general purpose computer produces a result that is displayed or communicated to the user indicating that the test was good in step 810. It should be noted that subsequent tests will typically be compared against the validated reference value, although such a comparison is not required. In addition, comparing subsequent tests with a validated reference value typically results in time savings, as the additional test fluid and/or elevated test pressure will then typically be maintained for a shorter period of time, such as 5 minutes, compared to the time the test fluid and/or test pressure is maintained elevated during the initial or reference test. When the calculated leak detection value is less than or equal to the reference value and/or within a certain reference amount, the test is declared good in box 820, which then points to the decision step or box 765, in which it must be determined whether further testing should be performed, as described above. When the leak detection value in decision step 810 falls outside the range of acceptable values compared to the validated reference value, then the method returns to step 750 as described above. [052] Other methods of comparing leak detection values subsequent to initial or validated reference leak detection values include comparing an average leak detection value over the entire time interval for a given series of tests multiples, and subtracting that mean from the mean value of a specific test over the same interval. Another option is to subtract the reference test leak detection values of a specific time interval from the subsequent calculated leak detection value of another test in the same time interval. Other methods of manipulating and displaying leak detection values fall within the scope of the present invention. [053] Instead of comparing the leak detection values to a validated reference value as described in step 810, the leak detection values can optionally be compared to the lower limit as indicated in the step or box of decision 815, which is similar to box 740. When the leak detection value satisfies a lower limit, this is considered to be a good test, and the flowchart continues towards step 820. When the leak detection values do not satisfy the limit, the method returns to step 750 as shown above. [054] Two examples of the leak detection system and method will be described below, with reference to Figures 2 to 6. [055] Both examples refer to data acquired at a well site, in particular, a deepwater exploration well, in which the overflow safety system, and more specifically, various subcomponents of the overflow safety system which can be hydraulically isolated from other components, are tested for leaks and pressure integrity to meet federal standards. It should be noted that while both examples refer to a blast safety system and oil and gas drilling, the scope of the present invention extends to other pressure systems as described above. [056] Figure 2 is a representation of an embodiment of the leak detection system and includes a pressure system 5A, which includes, in this example, the flow piping 4 (which can be one or more flow piping) which is configured to couple to a fluid pumping unit 10A, typically a cementing unit when on a drilling rig, to one or more annular pistons 6 and one or more shear pistons and/or tube pistons 7. In addition Furthermore, while the examples do not extend to the testing of other components, Figure 2 also illustrates casing 8, open well hole 9, and the geological formation or structure/rock 11 surrounding open well hole 9. As As noted above, the method and system described in this document extends to these elements for leak detection and pressure integrity testing. [057] Also illustrated in Figure 2 is a flowmeter or flow sensor 30A coupled to a general purpose computer 15A, which includes an operating program and a computer readable medium, as described above. Two pressure sensors 20A and 20B coupled to pressure system 5A are also illustrated, one on the surface and one on the overflow safety system. Other pressure sensors may be positioned at the same or different locations in the pressure system 5A and fall within the scope of the present invention. Pressure sensors 20A and 20B shown are coupled to general purpose computer 15A as described above. A 25A visual output comparable to that described above is coupled to the 15A general purpose computer. Example 1 [058] Pressure, flow rate, and the volume of test fluid pumped are graphically represented in graph 300 of Figure 3, which illustrates a series of high pressure tests for various subcomponents of the overflow safety system illustrated in Figure 2. It is likely that some of the subcomponents are of the same type so that the volume pumped for testing those subcomponents is effectively the same, as will be explained below. For example, a typical overflow safety system has several tube plungers, each of which must be hydraulically isolated and tested separately in accordance with federal regulations. Tube plungers are typically identical from a mechanical point of view, so the volume of fluid pumped is equal, leading to similar test results in the event that there are no leaks or defects. Other components of the overflow safety system that can optionally be tested with the methods and systems described in this document include, but are not limited to, valve planes, choke lines and stop lines. [059] The abscissa (eg, the horizontal axis) is the 305 time axis, which shows or records hourly time, with the gradations marking 15-minute increments. The ordinate or vertical axis on the left is a pressure axis 310 which shows system pressure 5 (Figure 1), as measured by pressure sensor 20, and includes increments or gradations for every 6.89 MPa (1,000 pounds). per square inch (psi)) with smaller gradations that mark increments of 1.38 MPa (200 psi). The ordinate on the right is also known as the flow rate axis 320 and shows the rate at which the test fluid is pumped by the fluid pumping unit 10 (Figure 1), as measured by the flow sensor 30 and/or as per calculated by the operational program as indicated above. The 320 flow rate shaft has major gradations for every 79.49 liters per minute (0.5 bbl/min, or 21 gallons per minute), with smaller gradations for every 15.9 liters per minute (0.1 bbl/min). The ordinate axis on the right is also called the test fluid volume axis 315 and shows the total volume of test fluid pumped by the fluid pumping unit 10, as measured by the flow sensor 30 and/or as calculated by the operational program as indicated above. The 315 test fluid volume shaft has gradations for each barrel and smaller gradations for each 31.8 liters (0.2 barrels) of total volume of test fluid pumped. [060] Five separate leak detection tests 331, 332, 333, 334, and 335 are plotted on graph 300 typically on graphical screen 25 (Figure 1). The test output 331 includes the pressure test ordinate axis 310 to display the measured/detected pressure 341 against the time axis 305. In addition, the measured/calculated test fluid volume 351 is plotted along the time using the time axis 305 relative to the test fluid volume axis 315. The test fluid flow rate 361 reads against the flow rate axis 320, and time (time to time n+i) over which the leak detection value for test 331 is calculated, as indicated by space 371. In other words, space 371 indicates the interval from timeo to timen+v in which the leak detection value is detected, with the initial time tempoo occurring at the beginning of space 371, space 371 being divided into the various intervals for tempon+y. This process, as indicated above and illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, is repeated for each test. [061] The 332 test includes the measured / detected pressure 342 read against the pressure axis 310 versus the time axis 305. Similarly, the measured / calculated test fluid volume 352 is plotted using the fluid volume axis test 315 and time axis 305. Test fluid flow rate 362 is illustrated using flow rate axis 320 versus time axis 305. The time (time to time+i) over which the leak detection value is calculated for test 332 as indicated by space 372. [062] Test 333 shows measured / detected pressure 343 using pressure axis 310 and time axis 305 Measured / calculated test fluid volume 353 is plotted using test fluid volume axis 315 against axis of time 305. The test fluid flow rate 363 is plotted using the flow rate axis 320 and the time axis 305. Of course, the time (time to times) over which the leak detection value is calculated for test 333 it is indicated by space 373. [063] Test 334 similarly includes measured/detected pressure 344 which plots the reading relative to pressure axis 310 against time axis 305. Measured/calculated test fluid volume 354 is plotted using volume axis 320 and the time axis 305. The test fluid flow rate 364 is shown graphically via the flow rate axis 320 and the time axis 305. The time (time to timen+7) over which the value of Leak detection is calculated for test 334 is indicated by means of space 374. [064] Test 335 includes measured / detected pressure 345 read using pressure axis 310 and time axis 30. Measured / calculated test fluid volume 355 is plotted using test fluid volume axis 315 and the time axis 305. The test fluid flow rate 365 is plotted using the flow rate axis 320 and the time axis 305. Of course, the time (time a time+yj over which the value of leak detection is calculated for test 355 is indicated by space 375. [065] It should be noted that the total volume of test fluid pumped 351, 352, 353, 354, and 355 for each test is effectively the same. Therefore, the data suggest that tests 331, 332, 333, 334, and 335 are for mechanically similar components, such as for a series of overflow safety system tube plungers, as shown above. [066] Each of the measured pressure curves 341, 342, 343, 344, and 345 indicates an overall exponential drop in pressure as time passes, as shown above. The difficulty is distinguishing the normal and harmful decrease in pressure from a loss or decrease in pressure that is reflective of a leak. Thus, pressure values, as visually represented in curves 341, 342, 343, 344, and 345, are used as input data or values in order to calculate leak detection values as described above. [067] In the chart or panel 400, the leak detection values 431, 432, 433, 434, and 435, which correspond to the leak detection tests 331, 332, 333, 334, and 335 over the time intervals 371, 372, 373, 374, and 375 are graphically represented in Figure 4. Leak detection values are calculated according to the method and system as described above. The abscissa or horizontal time axis 405 has major gradations for every minute and smaller gradations for every 15 seconds. Leak detection value axis 410 is the vertical or ordinate axis and, as noted earlier, is a unitless value with larger gradations every 0.1 unit and smaller gradations every 0.02 units. [068] It becomes very evident from graph 400 that the leak detection values 431, 434, and 435 that correspond to tests 331, 334, and 335 of Figure 3 are all around zero, indicating that the pressure drop is a result of the expected thermal effect or the drop in test fluid temperature and compressibility effect, rather than a leak. [069] On the other hand, the leak detection values 432 and 433 have a significantly different character when plotted on the 400 graph, compared to the leak detection values 431, 434, and 435. minimum leak detection threshold value of 0.1, for example, or when comparing the leak detection values 432 and 433 against the other leak detection values 431, 434, and 435, which are good and usable as a For reference, the slopes or graphs associated with the 432 and 433 leak detection values clearly indicate that the pressure system tested in tests 332 and 333 differs radically from the other tests 431, 434 and 435. This difference suggests that there is a system failure 5 and that the same is leaking. As can be seen, the pressure system tested in test 332 suffers from a small valve leak at the start of the test, which was then closed, resulting in a leak detection value 432 that quickly returned to the standard set by the leak detection values 431, 434, and 435. The pressure system tested in test 333 having a 433 leak detection value curve had a slow leak in the system and therefore did not pass as a whole. [070] It should be noted that conclusions about system integrity (ie, leakage or non-leakage) can be quickly drawn based on the leakage detection values 431, 432, 433, 434, and 435. the determination can be made in a time period of less than 10 minutes. It is believed that reliable data and a relatable determination can be obtained in a maximum of 3 minutes, and on some systems, the determination can be made in an even shorter period of 1 minute. As can be seen from the pressure data plotted on curves 341, 342, 343, 344, and 345 in Figure 3, if each test continued for about another 5 to 8 minutes, the pressure and test fluid bleed would be unnecessary. In other words, over a period of five longer tests, an additional 25 to 40 minutes of time would be spent testing the pressure systems, and this time would be unnecessary if present leak detection systems and methods were used. . [071] Thus, Example 1 illustrates that the leak detection system and method, as presented here, are fast and reliably indicative of defects. Example 2 [072] Example 2, as illustrated in graphs 500 and 600 of Figures 5 and 6, respectively, uses test data from several different subcomponents of the overflow safety system that are significantly noisier than those used in Example 2. [073] In Figure 5, the abscissa or horizontal axis is also called the 505 time axis, which shows time with gradations or larger intervals every two hours and intervals or smaller gradations in 30-minute increments. The ordinate or left vertical axis may be called the 510 pressure axis, which reflects the pressure of pressure system 5 (Figure 1) as measured by pressure sensor 20. Pressure axis 510 has larger gradations or intervals for every 13 .79 MPa (2,000 pounds per square inch (psi)), with the smaller gradations or ranges marking increments of 3.45 MPa (500 psi). The ordinate or vertical flow rate axis 520 shows the rate at which the test fluid is pumped by the fluid pumping unit 10, as measured by the flow sensor 30 and/or as calculated by the operating program, as noted above. The 520 flow rate shaft has larger gradations or intervals for every 79.49 liters per minute (0.5 barrels per minute or 21 gallons per minute), with smaller gradations among the larger ones showing 15.9 liters per minute ( 0.1 bbl/min). The vertical test fluid volume axis 515 indicates the total volume of test fluid pumped by the fluid pumping unit 10, as measured by the flow sensor 30 and/or as calculated by the operational program, as noted above, and it has larger gradations or intervals for each barrel, and smaller gradations or intervals for each intervening 31.8 liters (0.2 barrels) of the total volume of test fluid pumped. [074] Six separate leak detection tests 532, 533, 534, 535, 536, and 537 are plotted on graph 500. Test 532 includes the measured / detected pressure 542 on the pressure axis 510 read against the time axis 505. The measured/calculated test fluid volume 552 is plotted from axis 515 against time axis 505. Test fluid flow rate 562 from axis 520 is plotted against time axis 505. Time (timeO to tempon+1) in which the leak detection value is calculated for test 532 as indicated by time period 572. [075] Test 533 includes measured / sensed pressure 543 over pressure axis 510 read against time axis 505. Measured / calculated test fluid volume 553 is plotted from axis 515 against time axis 505 The flow rate of test fluid 563 from axis 520 is plotted against time axis 505. The time (time0 to timen+1) over which the leak detection value is calculated for the test 533 is indicated by space 573. [076] Test 534 includes the measured / sensed pressure 544 over the 510 axis read against the 505 time axis. The measured / calculated test fluid volume 554 is plotted from the 515 axis against the 505 time axis. test fluid flow rate 564 from axis 520 is plotted against time axis 505. The time (time0 to timen+1) over which the leak detection value is calculated for test 534 is indicated by space 574. [077] Test 535 includes measured / sensed pressure 545 over axis 510 read against time axis 505. Measured / calculated test fluid volume 555 is plotted from axis 515 against time 505. test fluid flow 565 from axis 520 is plotted against time axis 505. The time (time0 to timen+1) over which the leak detection value is calculated for test 535 is indicated by space 575 . [078] Test 536 includes the measured / sensed pressure 546 over the pressure axis 510 read against the time axis 505. The measured / calculated test fluid volume 556 is plotted from the axis 515 against the time axis 505 The flow rate of test fluid 566 from axis 520 is plotted against time axis 505. The time (time0 to timen+1) over which the leak detection value is calculated for test 536, such as indicated by space 576. It should be noted that the data from test 536 appears to be indicative that the test was aborted. [079] Test 537 includes the measured / sensed pressure 547 over the pressure axis 510 read against the time axis 505. The measured / calculated test fluid volume 557 is plotted from the axis 515 against the time axis 505 The flow rate of test fluid 567 from axis 520 is plotted against time axis 505. The time (time0 to timen+1) over which the leak detection value is calculated for test 537 is indicated by space 577. [080] It should be noted that the total volume of test fluid pumped 552 and 553 in tests 532 and 533 is roughly the same. Therefore, the data suggest that tests 532 and 533 are for mechanically similar components, such as for a series of annular pistons in the overflow safety system, as presented above. Likewise, the total volume of test fluid pumped 554, 555, 556, and 557 is about the same. As such, the data suggest that tests 534, 535, 536, and 537 are also for mechanically similar components, such as, for example, a series of tube plungers of the overflow safety system as discussed above. Of course, and as presented above, the data for these tested components are merely exemplary; and the systems and methods described in this document are capable of testing other components of the overflow safety system as well as different pressure systems as defined earlier in this document. [081] Each of the measured pressure curves 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, and 547 shows an overall exponential decay in pressure over time. This is reflected, in part, by a change in temperature, as shown above. As stated, what is important is to differentiate between a normal pressure drop and a pressure drop relative to a problem such as a potentially harmful leak. In this way, pressure values as visually represented in curves 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, and 547 are used as input values in order to calculate leak detection values as described above. Also, it should be noted that, in tests 532 and 533, it is believed that an additional test fluid was added to pressure system 5, raising the pressure, as curves 532 and 533 indicate. The 562 and 563 flow rate curves and the 552 and 553 volume curves also indicate this. Regardless of the reason for adding additional fluid, the 600 graph of calculated leak detection values will illustrate that the method and systems of the present invention quickly and more easily allow the user of the system of the present invention to identify good tests (which do not leak) from the leak pressure systems. [082] The 600 graph of the leak detection values 632, 633, 634, 635, 636, and 637 that correspond to the leak detection tests 532, 533, 534, 535, 536, and 537 over the time intervals 572, 573, 574, 575, 576, and 577 are plotted on graph 600 of Figure 6. Leak detection values are calculated according to the method and use the system as described above. The abscissa or horizontal time axis 605 has major gradations for each of the minor gradations for every 15 seconds between minutes. The leak detection value axis 610 turns out to be the ordinate or the vertical axis and, as noted earlier, has no value, with larger gradations every 0.1 unit and smaller gradations indicating 0.02 units. [083] By analyzing the 600 graph, it can be seen that, despite the different volumes used in the tests that lead to the curves 552, 553, 554, 555, 556, and 557 and to the pressures 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, and 547 for the respective tests, each of the leak detection values 632, 633, 634, 635, 636, 637 falls within the range of 0.0 to 0.08 negative (-0.08) within the first 30 seconds into the test and remains relatively constant over the next 8.5 minutes. Thus, it can be seen that none of the tests indicate the existence of a leak when compared to the character of the leak detection values 532 and 533 in Figure 5, which reflect a defect, such as a leak. It can also be seen that the method and system modalities of the present invention work accurately despite sometimes poor and/or inconsistent data, such as those created by spurious signals and/or inadequate procedures and/or with inexperienced operators of the fluid pumping unit. [084] It should also be noted that, for validation purposes, the 532 test and the leak detection value or the 632 curve were selected as a reference value, as would typically be the case when conducting the test in real time at a well site. The remaining tests show a good correlation of leak detection values. [085] It should also be noted that the leak detection values 634, 635, and 637 (as noted earlier, the 536 test appears to have stopped quickly) of the different subcomponents of the overflow safety system show a good correlation with the leak detection values 632 and 633 of the leak subcomponents tested in tests 532 and 533. Therefore, it can be seen that the leak detection values provide a consistent response despite the different systems of the subcomponents that are tested. [086] In addition, it is observed that the leak detection values 431.432, 433, 434, and 435 fall within a range of approximately ± 0.02 after 30 seconds for tests 331, 332, 333, 334, and 335 which occurred at pressures 341, 342, 343, 344, and 345 out of about 34.47 to 37.23 MPa (5,000 psi to 5400 psi). [087] In comparison, it is observed that the leak detection values 632, 633, 634, 635, and 637 fall in a range of approximately 0 to about 0.08 after 30 seconds for tests 532, 533, 534 , 535, and 537 which ran at pressures 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 547 out of about 71,016MPa (10,300 psi) to 79.29MPa (11,500 psi). It should be noted that at high pressures, pressure sensors such as sensor 20 typically experience greater noise and reduced accuracy. In short, they are less accurate and produce less stable output. The lack of stability impacts the leak detection value and likely accounts for a portion of the difference in values between the two examples. Therefore, despite the significant difference in the pressure test, each of the leak detection values falls within the range of ±0.1, which can be selected as an optional overall limit value for leak detection. [088] Returning to Figures 5 and 6, it should be noted that the system and method operate so that the determination of the existence of a malfunction, such as a leak, can be made based on the leak detection values 632, 633, 634, 635, and 637 in less than 10 minutes and, in many cases, less time than that. However, a normal pressure test shows pressure data plotted on curves 542, 543, 544, 545, and 547 of Figure 5 for tests that continued from a minimum of about 15 minutes to about 1.5 hours. To test the system as a whole, the operator can consume, following the procedures of the prior art, at least 4.25 hours. In other words, the leak detection and leak detection systems and methods of the present invention described herein produce a significant saving of time and, in turn, of money. Example 3 [089] The use of the modalities of the methods and systems described in this document is not limited to pressure systems that operate at pressures of several thousand pounds per square inch. Indeed, the methods and systems presented can be used, as noted, for pressure systems operating at pressures of an order of magnitude lower than in the previous examples, including, but not limited to, low pressure tests for the systems presented above, such as low pressure fluid lines, laboratory equipment, or the like. [090] An additional advantage of the modalities of the methods and systems presented is that they have the ability to measure and validate pressure tests and detect leaks in pressure systems that are subjected to a first pressure test at a first pressure and subsequently , subjected to a second pressure test at a second pressure. The second pressure is optionally significantly different from the first pressure and, optionally, the second pressure is an order of magnitude greater or less than that of the first pressure. A disadvantage of the prior art is that data resolution and data presentation methods make the validation of very divergent test data quite difficult and, in some cases, impossible. For example, a circular analog recorder used in prior art methods typically has a scale of 0 to 103.42MPa (15,000 psi), with gradations greater than 6.89MPa (1,000 psi) and gradations less than 1.72MPa (250 psi) . Such a scale may be appropriate for high pressure tests of several thousand pounds per square inch, but resolution is unacceptable with low pressure tests of a few hundred pounds per square inch. [091] Returning to Example 3, illustrated in graphs 300 and 1000 of Figures 9 and 10. More specifically, Figure 9 shows the same test data for several different subcomponents of the overflow safety system shown in Figure 3. Figures 3 and 9 have the same graph with the same data, but Figure 3 provides element numbers and the presentation of a high pressure test of the components, while Figure 9 provides element numbers and the presentation of a series of low pressure tests that preceded each of the high pressure tests. [092] For clarity and to avoid confusion, Figures 3 and 9 repeat only some common elements, rather than all common elements in each graph. In more specific terms, the abscissa or horizontal axis is the 305 time axis. The time axis has larger hourly units of time, with smaller gradations for 15-minute increments. The ordinate or vertical axis on the left is pressure axis 310, which shows the pressure of system pressure 5 (Figure 1) as measured by pressure sensor 20. The vertical axis on the left shows larger gradations for every 6.89MPa (1,000 pounds per square inch (psi)), with smaller gradations between larger gradations scoring increments of 1.38MPa (200 psi). The flow rate axis 320 reflects the rate at which the test fluid is pumped by the fluid pumping unit 10, as measured by the flow sensor 30 and/or as calculated by the operational program as indicated above. The 320 flow rate shaft has major gradations for every 79.49 liters per minute (0.5 barrels per minute or 21 gallons per minute), with the lower gradations in between marking every 15.9 liters per minute (0.1 bbl /min). The test fluid volume axis 315 indicates the total volume of test fluid pumped by the fluid pumping unit 10, as measured by the flow sensor 30 and/or as calculated by the operational program as indicated above, and has gradations or larger units for each barrel, and gradations or smaller units for each 31.8 liters (0.2 barrels) of total volume of test fluid pumped. [093] Figure 9 graphically shows five separate low pressure leak detection tests 931, 932, 933, 934, and 935 on graph 300. Each of the low pressure tests 931, 932, 933, 934, and 935 precedes in time the high pressure tests 331, 332, 333, 334, and 335, respectively, which were presented in relation to Example 1 and Figure 3. [094] Returning to Figure 9, each of the low pressure tests 931, 932, 933, 934, and 935 shows the measured/detected pressure 941, 942, 943, 944, and 945, respectively, read against the 305 pressure. Measured/calculated test fluid 951 is plotted using volume axis 315 versus time axis 305. Test fluid flow rate 961 is plotted using axis 320 versus or using time 305. Time (time0 to tempon +1) on which the leak detection value is calculated is indicated by spaces 971, 972, 973, 974 and 975, respectively. [095] It should be noted that the total volume of pumped test fluid 951, 952, 953, 954, and 955 for each low pressure test is effectively the same. That is, the data suggests that the low pressure tests 931, 932, 933, 934, and 935 are for mechanically similar components, as shown above in Example 1. [096] As shown in Example 1, each of the measured pressure curves 341, 342, 343, 344, and 345 of Figure 3 indicates an overall exponential decrease in pressure as time passes. Furthermore, and as noted, this proves to be a difficulty in distinguishing between a normal drop and a harmful drop in pressure from a potentially harmful leak. [097] In the example of the low pressure tests, it should be noted that the resolution, particularly of the pressure 941, 942, 943, 94, and 945 with respect to the pressure axis 310 in Figure 9 is relatively poor compared to the resolution of the pressure curves 341, 342, 343, 344, and 345 of Figure 3, when viewed on a common scale of pressure axis 310. That is, the resolution of pressure 941, for example, appears to be relatively constant at approximately of 1.72 MPa (250 psi), which is a sharp contrast to the resolution for the high pressure curve 341 of Figure 3, which reflects a change in pressure of about 1.72 MPa (250 psi). The methods and systems of the present invention may optionally display a pressure axis 310 (as well as other axis data) with a user-selected and/or pre-selected data range and therefore provide better resolution for a specific range of data for a given test. However, one scale may be suitable for a given dataset, but rarely can that same scale provide sufficient resolution for another dataset, particularly with prior art analog methods, which have fixed data ranges for which the data is plotted. [098] The same method and systems presented above in Example 1 or elsewhere can be applied to low pressure testing. That is, a leak detection value is calculated for each low pressure test as it is for a high pressure test and optionally displayed graphically as well as the leak detection values 431, 432, 433, 434, and 435 were indicated in Figure 4. [099] Another application and benefit of the methods and systems presented focuses on the particular scenario in which a low pressure test precedes a high pressure test. The ability to detect a leak during low pressure testing, something not possible due to the resolution and capability of prior art methods, allows a user of the present invention to take corrective measures to investigate and/or stop a leak following a low pressure test and before continuing to the high pressure test phase. By taking preventive or remedial action in the low pressure test phase, it is possible to reduce the risk that the equipment could fail catastrophically under high pressures; reduce the risk to personnel who might otherwise be in the area of equipment or pressure systems, during which time pressure systems may fail while undergoing a high pressure test; reduce the risk to the environment, should pressure systems otherwise fail while undergoing a high pressure test, and reduce the time to detect a leak, as a leak can potentially be discovered in the low phase pressure, before putting time and money into performing a high pressure test. [0100] The one or more present inventions, in various embodiments, include components, methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus, as substantially depicted and described herein, including different embodiments, subcombinations, and subassemblies thereof. Persons skilled in the art will understand how to make and use the present invention after understanding the present invention. [0101] Although the examples present data from a blast safety system on a drilling rig, it should be understood that modalities of the leak detection system and method of the present invention work equally well in pressure systems and in pressure systems. fluids of other types, as shown and presented above. Therefore, the examples provided are non-limiting examples. [0102] The present invention, in various modalities, includes the provision of devices and processes in the absence of items not illustrated and/or described in this document or in the various modalities of the present invention, including in the absence of such articles, as they may already have been used in previous devices or processes, for example, in order to improve performance, achieve ease and/or reduce the cost of implementation. [0103] The above presentation of the invention is for illustration and description purposes. What is presented herein is not intended to limit the invention to the form or forms depicted herein. In the detailed description, for example, various features of the present invention are grouped into one or more embodiments for the purpose of simplifying the present invention. This method of filing should not be construed as reflecting intent, as the claimed invention requires more resources than are expressly set forth in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, the inventive aspects are based on less than all the features of a single modality set out above. Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the present Detailed Description, with each claim representing, by itself, a separate preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0104] Furthermore, although the description of the present invention has included the description of one or more embodiments and certain variations and modifications, other variations and modifications are within the scope of the present invention, for example, as they may be within the scope of the present invention. skill and knowledge of persons skilled in the art, after understanding the present invention. It is intended to obtain the rights that include alternative modalities to the extent permitted, including alternative, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or not such alternative, interchangeable structures, functions, ranges or steps and/or equivalents as presented herein, without the intent to publicly engage in any patentable subject matter.
权利要求:
Claims (11) [0001] 1. Leak detection system to detect a leak in a pressure system by defining a volume, said pressure system configured to receive a selected volume of test fluid, wherein the addition of the volume of test fluid increases the pressure of a first time test pressure to a second time test pressurei, the leak detection system CHARACTERIZED by comprising: the pressure system; a computer configured to store a method and data as a function of time, on a computer readable medium, the method comprising: receiving, from at least one pressure sensor coupled to the pressure system, an indication of a system pressure of pressure in time and subsequent times over a time interval to time(n + i), and calculate a leak detection value, said leak detection value being a function of a variation of said test pressure in tempon and said test pressure in time(n+1); and a visual output operatively coupled to said computer, said visual output being configured to display said leak detection value for a user to perceive. [0002] 2. Leak detection system, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that in time, the volume defined by the pressure system does not contain test fluid. [0003] 3. Leak detection system according to claim 1 or 2, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that said test pressure decreases over a time interval from timei to times +1). [0004] 4. Leak detection system, according to any one of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that said test fluid is essentially incompressible. [0005] 5. Leak detection system, according to any one of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that said computer operates continuously and that said leak detection value is continuously calculated by said computer using the equation: Detection Value Leakage = [1 - (Pressure in timen / Pressure in time(n+i))], where “n” is any number, including zero. [0006] 6. Leak detection system, according to any one of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the output is a graphic. [0007] 7. Leak detection system according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that said computer is configured to continuously receive signals from a temperature sensor indicative of a temperature of said fluid in said volume. [0008] 8. Leak detection system, according to any one of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that said visual output is configured to receive said reflective signals of said temperature and to display a reflective image of said temperature of said fluid throughout of time. [0009] 9. Leak detection system according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that said computer is configured to receive an indication from a temperature sensor of a first temperature of said fluid at said first pressure and a second temperature of the said fluid at said second pressure and to send signals to said visual output reflective of said first temperature and said second temperature. [0010] 10. Method for detecting a leak in a pressure system by defining a volume, said pressure system configured to receive a selected volume of test fluid, wherein adding the volume of test fluid increases the system pressure of a first test pressure in timeo for a second test pressure in i-time, the method CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: storing, in a computer-readable medium, data as a function of time; receive, from at least one sensor coupled to the pressure system, a reflective signal of a pressure of the pressure system in time and subsequent times over a time interval at times +1), and calculate a detection value of leakage which is a function of a variation of said pressure in time and of said pressure in time i, and so on for one or more time intervals at time interval at times +1) and generating a detection signal of reflective leakage of said leak detection value; and displaying said leak detection value as a function of time on a visual output. [0011] 11. Method, according to claim 10, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the leak detection value is calculated by the following equation: Leak Detection Value = (1 - Time pressure / Time pressure) x 100.
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同族专利:
公开号 | 公开日 EP2467691A4|2015-12-02| BR112012003541A2|2020-08-11| US8756022B2|2014-06-17| US20130226475A1|2013-08-29| WO2011022132A2|2011-02-24| US20110046903A1|2011-02-24| WO2011022132A3|2011-05-05| US8380448B2|2013-02-19| EP3561472A1|2019-10-30| EP2467691A2|2012-06-27|
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法律状态:
2020-08-25| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]| 2020-09-01| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]| 2021-06-01| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]| 2021-07-13| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 09/07/2010, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. PATENTE CONCEDIDA CONFORME ADI 5.529/DF, QUE DETERMINA A ALTERACAO DO PRAZO DE CONCESSAO. |
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申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题 US23473609P| true| 2009-08-18|2009-08-18| US61/234.736|2009-08-18| US61/234,736|2009-08-18| US31186310P| true| 2010-03-09|2010-03-09| US61/311,863|2010-03-09| US61/311.863|2010-03-09| PCT/US2010/041478|WO2011022132A2|2009-08-18|2010-07-09|System and method for detecting leaks| 相关专利
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