Use idas equipment to oversee water pipes

Engineers in the UK have developed a way to simultaneously monitor all points along an underwater pipe using fiber optic cables.

"This is the first technology in the world to help distribute optical sensor sound, can detect sound at every point along the fiber optic cable , " said the engineers from Silixa.

The intelligent sound-sensing device (IDAS) is used instead of underwater microphones or underwater stethoscope, which are used for military purposes to: collect underwater sounds, geodetic surveys. Seismic and sound measurement emitted from structures constructed under water.

"Sound signals include tiny pressure variations, In this optical fiber environment, these tiny pressure variations will change the way light is transmitted , " says Daniel Finfer, director of sound development department of Silixa company.

By monitoring (accurately and quickly) backscattering , researchers can collect sound at every point along the length of the fiber optic cable.

"Backscattering occurs naturally: a stream of light shines down on an optical fiber. By recording the time that the light signal returns, a measurement of light scattered at each point along fiber optic cable can be identified, " according to Finfer.

This technology allows engineers to continuously monitor the volume and proportion of liquids passing through an underwater pipe, as well as detect air bubbles, clogs and leaks.

IDAS has been tested with the help of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), which provides a combination of: sound and patterns (streams) Light in controlled environments of an underwater sound testing facility.

"The role of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is to recognize and describe the sound environment" , according to Justin Ablitt, working at the Center for Sound and Mechanical Measurement, National Physical Laboratory (NPL).

"We can contact the test system in sound pressure conditions. Silixa engineers can then analyze relevant data and reproduce exactly what the test system does. In this way, you can monitor how a test system works and re-describe the sound environment . "