Abstract: The gas pressure control apparatus and method for detection of leaks in pressurized pipelines disclosed herein measures thermally compensated leak rates. The apparatus uses a pressure vessel and gas pressure control system to precisely determine leak rates.

Abstract: Process and apparatus for the quality control of individual, one-piece receptacles, which are open at one end. The individual, one-piece receptacles are preferably aligned, in several groups, side by side, similarly with respect to their spatial orientation. The receptacles are turned over to a conveyor line where they pass through at least one testing station at which measurement results specific to each type of receptacle are obtained. The analysis of these results indicates the structural integrity and accuracy of shape of the respective receptacle. The receptacles, as a function of the receptacle-specific measurement results, are removed from the conveyor line if defective; and only the structurally integral and shape-accurate acceptable receptacles are stacked and further advanced as a stack.

Abstract: An underground storage tank having secondary containment comprising a self-supporting, semi-rigid thin wall located on the inside of the tank. The thin inner wall completely lines the inside of the tank and is structurally independent of the tank.

Abstract: Apparatus for detecting leaks in fuel storage tanks. A float suspended in the tank liquid determines liquid levels and transmits the liquid level information via an infrared beam to a probe processor in the upper portion of the tank. The probe processor stores a plurality of level indications for subsequent uploading to an external computer which analyzes the level information to generate leakage rate information.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting changes in a physical property of the material beneath a large storage vessel, such as a landfill. The apparatus includes one or more tubes defining elongate channels in the material beneath the storage vessel. A sensing probe is moved through the channel while taking and collecting measurements of the physical property of the material in the vicinity of the probe. Typically, moisture and/or density may be measured using conventional nuclear sources and associated detectors. The measurements are compared with reference data to thereby detect a change indicating a leak in the storage vessel.

Abstract: A cylindrical-shaped storage tank with substantially flattened ends is jacketed in a manner which results in storage tank system capable of holding detecting liquid or being placed under non-atmospheric pressure without structural damage. The storage tank initially has end plates mounted on its flattened ends. Thereafter, a separating agent is applied over the side walls of the storage tank, a layer of fibrous reinforcing material applied on the separating agent and the end plates, and a resinous material applied. The resultant jacket is independent from the side walls of the inner tank. True secondary containment is provided by the end plates and jacket. A fail safe containment storage tank system is provided by the use of independent leak detection means to monitor the closed space between the storage tank and end plates and the closed annular space between the storage tank and jacket for tank or jacket leakage.

Abstract: Apparatus for the detection of oil or water leakages having a housing with a plurality of openings. The housing is to be a sufficient volume to permit the expansion of an absorbent material when such is placed within it. Additionally, the housing is to have a hollow rod extending from it. Running through the rod is a wire. One end of the wire extends into the housing and holds a weighted member. The other end of the wire is connected to a signalling device for signalling persons of the presence of the liquid sought to be detected. When an expandable absorbent material is placed in the housing and the material detects the presence of a particular liquid, the absorbent material expands. This expansion forces the weighted member to push the wire through the hollow rod so that the signalling device is activated. In a preferred embodiment, underground leakages in oil and/or water tanks may also be detected and signalled to persons in the area.

Abstract: Improved multi-wall containers and pipes for transporting fluids which have to be protected against leakawge and mechanical forces, have an inner and outer wall separated by a continuous foam layer integrated into the containers. Improved strength and resistance to axial inertial pressure is provided by the method of manufacture using chopped fiberglass, continuous windings and suitable polyester resins and circumferential ribs spaced at stress points and integrally incorporated into the containment walls. Vessels produced according to the methods of the invention have a moment of inertia strength of about 4.67 in.sup.4 substantially eliminating torquing, buckling and rupture.

Abstract: A storage tank system especially useful for storing gasoline has an auxiliary enclosure assembly. The system comprises a storage tank, preferably with a tank cover for gaining ingress into the storage tank, a sleeve positioned on the storage tank, a sleeve cover with an entry cover in a mid-portion thereof, preferably a dirt shield extending from the sleeve cover to ground level, a drip sump compartment positioned on the cover of the sleeve and a fill line extending through the drip sump compartment and sleeve. The assembly allows ready access to the area within the sleeve for inspection and repair purposes and can provide ready access to the interior of the tank. It also provides protection and containment for access lines leading through it.

Abstract: A storage tank system especially useful for storing gasoline comprises a storage tank, a sleeve with sleeve cover positioned on the storage tank, a drip sump compartment positioned on the cover of the sleeve and a fill line extending through the drip sump compartment and sleeve. The storage tank as well as structural accessories such as a dispensing line can have an outer containment wall. The system results in a storage facility which is capable of containing minor spills from a filling operation.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting a change in the amount of liquid in a storage tank. The apparatus comprises a vertical upright standpipe for filling with a liquid to a level that generates a hydrostatic head pressure substantially equivalent to that exerted by the liquid in the storage tank; a sensor for sensing hydrostatic head pressure differential between the liquid in the storage tank and the liquid in the standpipe; a connector for connecting the standpipe to the pressure differential sensor, the standpipe connector being substantially horizontally disposed to the standpipe; and a connector for connecting the storage tank to the pressure differential sensor, the storage tank connector being substantially horizontally disposed to the storage wherein the standpipe connector and the tank connector are in substantial axial alignment with each other. Any change in the liquid pressure in the tank as a result of leakage from the tank will change the differential pressure measured by the pressure transducer.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a storage tank containing a fluid. The system measures the buoyancy force acting on a displacer suspended in a storage tank by means of a load cell. The resulting force acting on the displacer is proportional to the mass of fluid in the tank. A look-up table is first developed by making periodic entries of the resulting load cell output during the initial filling of the tank. This data is then stored in a computer memory. By utilizing this data and interpolating between entries, a very accurate measurement of the fluid mass in the tank is calculated. In addition, by making periodic measurements over time, small leaks can be detected. In the preferred embodiment, the monitor includes an A/D converter located adjacent to the sensor assembly, thereby substantially eliminating measurement errors due to thermoelectric effects.

Abstract: A leak detection system for monitoring an evacuated space which includes a vacuum pump, a low vacuum gauge for continuously monitoring the magnitude of the vacuum in said space, and a vacuum control switching assembly responsive to the vacuum in the space for periodically starting the pump when the vacuum in the space is lost to a predetermined extent, and thereby restoring the vacuum to a certain magnitude. A counter is provided to count cycles of the vacuum pump. An alarm device provides an alarm responsive to execessive running of the pump. A high vacuum test line is connected between the evacuated space and the vacuum pump. The high vacuum test line and vacuum pump are used concurrently with a switching system which opens to allow atmospheric air to be drawn into the evacuated space between the confining walls to sweep out and purge this space when high vacuum is applied to the evacuated space, and which isolates the sensitive low vacuum gauge at this time.

Abstract: A method is described for enabling leak detection of an underground storage tank surrounded by a water table. The method begins by sealing a test probe in the tank, the test probe having an elongated substantially hollow core with first and second ends, a housing for receiving the second end of the hollow tube and being vented to the fluid product, a low temperature coefficient medium supported in the substantially hollow core of the elongated tube, and a liquid seal supported in the housing between the medium and the fluid product. The method continues by then establishing and maintaining a pressure equilibrium between the hollow core of the test probe and the head space. An inert gas such as nitrogen is then introduced into the head space to overpressurize the head space by an amount sufficient to reestablish a leak at any break in the storage tank despite presence of the water table surrounding the storage tank. Once the tank contents are stabilized, the precision leak test is performed.

Abstract: An underground storage tank has an inner wall and an outer wall defining a generally annular space for receiving a leak detecting fluid, and a plurality of ribs bonded to the inner and outer walls and projecting radially outwardly from the inner wall, each rib comprising sidewalls and a top wall, the outer wall being attached to the top wall of each rib but substantially unattached to the sidewalls of each rib, and the outer wall substantially conforming to the contour of the inner wall and the ribs.

Abstract: A volumetric leak detector. An overfilled storage tank has at its upper end a fill pipe predetermined surface area. An area converter reservoir is connected at this upper end with the storage tank, so that some liquid from the fill pipe flows into the reservoir. The area converter reservoir has a surface area which is larger than the surface area of the fill pipe. An almost constant minimum level is provided in the area converter reservoir, and the height difference between that minimal level and the actual level of the tank are as determined.

Abstract: A device and the use of, are disclosed for pressure testing the integrity of coolant systems of the internal combustion engine, and more particularly to a compressed air operated pressure tester for performing diagnostic services on water cooled engines and their related components which include the radiator, the coolant flow passages within the engine itself, the pressure type radiator filler cap with available adapters, and the connecting hoses. The device includes a connecting means and restriction component for discharging compressed air into the coolant system with an adjustable pressure relief valve for limiting the maximum pressure.

Abstract: A method of making a storage tank comprises forming a cylindrical-shaped inner tank with integral support ribs and forming an outer wall comprised of a series of sections which are at least partially separated from the inner tank's walls between each set of support ribs. Each outer wall section is bonded to side walls of adjacent ribs at a distance of less than about 90% of the height of the support ribs such that the ribs protrude from the outer surface of the storage tank system. The inner and outer walls of the system are both strengthened by the common support ribs. Secondary containment is provided by the outer wall. A monitored storage tank system is provided by the use of a leak detection means to monitor the closed space defined by the rib interiors, the outer wall and the storage tank.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for collecting in seal containers the gasoline that leaks or spills from service station dispensers or submersible pumps help to reduce the pollution associated with such equipment. The apparatus and the method also provide for returning the collected gasoline to the storage tanks via existing vapor recovery systems.

Abstract: A polymeric insert is arranged for securement within a base portion of a water cooler housing to accommodate drainage from a water cooler top wall. Drainage and condensation is accommodated to minimize corrosion of a lower portion of the water cooler housing. A modification of the structure includes a fungicide and herbicide distribution reservoir and an alarm indicating stoppage of the associated drain structure of the organization.

Abstract: A double piping system connected between an underground storage tank and an above-ground liquid dispenser, e.g. gasoline, provides containment to prevent the pumped liquid from leaking from the underground piping system into the environment. The piping system can be tested or replaced from grade without excavating or breaking ground at the installed tank site. Particularly advantageous assembly and disassembly of the system is provided by a coupling that involves cooperation between a bayonet-type quick-disconnect coupling for the primary piping and a bellows for the secondary piping. The bellows retracts to provide access to the quick-disconnect fitting for replacement of the inner piping. When extended, the bellows is sealably connected with a containment piping coaxial with the primary piping, so as to provide an annular containment volume around the quick-disconnect coupling.

Abstract: A double containment and leak detection apparatus and method including a tank having a bottom and a surrounding shell, with a containment baffle above the bottom and a leak detector in a containment space between the containment baffle and the tank bottom. The containment baffle includes a baffle plate sealingly joined to the interior of the shell to form a sealed containment space between the containment baffle and the bottom. The leak detector is installed in the containment space to detect the presence of stored material held in the tank in the event such material leaks into the containment space. The leak detection means is connected, through a leak-proof access, to means external to the tank for responding to such leaks of stored material so detected inside the containment space. The invention further includes a primary containment, made of liner material, located inside the tank above the containment baffle and within the shell, capable of containing such stored material.

Abstract: A tank leak detector has a pressure transmitter suspended in a tank to detect liquid level changes of a fluid by sensing a pressure which changes when a liquid level changes. The transmitter preferably is a differential pressure transmitter. A pump is provided for drawing liquid through a tube up to a sealed passageway in a manifold which is connected to a pressure sensing inlet of the pressure transmitter. The pump eliminates air bubbles in the passageway and at the pressure sensing inlet. The sealed passageway provides a liquid column that changes in pressure at the pressure sensing inlet as the liquid level rises and falls where transmitter output indicates liquid level changes. The detector is temperature stable because the tank is underground where both inlets of a pressure sensor are at the same temperature. The unit is easily installed in existing tanks by suspending from a support in the tank.

Abstract: A method of making a storage tank comprises forming a cylindrical-shaped tank from thin gauge metal and adding spaced support ribs. In a preferred embodiment, an outer wall comprises of a series of sections which are at least partially separated from the tank's walls between each set of support ribs is provided. Each outer wall section is bonded to side walls of the ribs at a distance of less than about 90% of the height of the support ribs such that the ribs protrude from the outer surface of the storage tank.

Abstract: The positive-displacement pump apparatus and method for detection of leaks in pressurized pipelines disclosed herein measures volume changes at different pressures to determine thermally compensated leak rates. The apparatus uses a positive-displacement pump apparatus to precisely determine volume changes.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring the pressure within a cask containing radioactive materials is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a differential pressure sensor sealingly connected to a bore that penetrates through the wall of the cask for directly monitoring the pressure of the helium gas contained within the cask and for providing a first barrier between the helium gas and the ambient atmosphere. An evacuated sensor chamber surrounds both the outlet end of the through-wall bore and the differential pressure sensor for providing a second barrier between the helium and the ambient atmosphere as well as a vacuum reference point for the differential pressure sensor. An absolute pressure sensor is connected in parallel to the through-wall bore to allow the system operator to determine whether or not a reduction in the pressure sensed by the differential pressure sensor is the result of a leakage condition in the cask, or in the evacuated sensor chamber.

Abstract: A liquid leak detector for use with above-ground storage tanks. The liquid leak detector includes a vertically upright standpipe for filling with a liquid to a level that generates a hydrostatic head pressure substantially equivalent to that exerted by the liquid in the storage tank; a first pipe connected to the standpipe at about the bottom end thereof and adapted to be connected to the tank at about the bottom of the tank; a pressure transducer disposed within the first pipe for sensing hydrostatic head pressure differential between the liquid in the storage tank and the liquid in the standpipe to determine a change in pressure differential resulting from a change in the amount of liquid in the storage tank; and a hose connected above the level of the liquid in the standpipe and adapted to be connected to the tank above the level of the liquid in the tank.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring very small flows into and out of large tanks comprising a reference vessel substantially vertical and proximate the tank to be metered and connected in fluid communication with the tank and having transducers located between the connection point and the surface of the fluid in the reference vessel for converting the mass of fluid flow there through to an electrical signal readable into equivalent volume change in the main tank and a meter for reading the electrical signal.

Abstract: In a pressurized aircraft, the net air leakage occurring while the aircraft is pressurized at altitude, i.e., the difference between the mass flow rate of all air supplied to the pressurized compartments of the aircraft and the mass flow rate of all air intentionally discharged to the external ambient, is calculated by a system employing air mass flow gauges in the air supply and discharge ducts. Increases in the rate of leakage over time furnish an indication of deterioration of the aircraft structure such as that caused by fatigue and stress corrosion of the external skin.

Abstract: A double-walled vessel for containing fluid, the vessel having an annular space between the walls wherein a compressed gas at a pressure higher than any pressure in the inner vessel is maintained, the vessel including a monitoring device to sense the escape of gas from the annular space such as decrease in its pressure or flow of gas from a replenishing source and to sense the presence of the compressed gas in the inner vessel such as increase in pressure, sensing the composition of the compressed gas within the inner vessel or sensing an increase in flow through a vent, whereby leakage through either the inner vessel wall or the surrounding outer wall is detected and the escape of contained fluid from the inner vessel is prevented.

Abstract: A hydrocarbon vapor sensor which is simple and low cost and can easily detect the existence of hydrocarbon vapor. The device is temperature compensated so that a change in resistance due to a change in temperature is avoided and an arcurate response is always provided. The sensor can be used in a system in which a number of sensors are provided at various depths to determine whether a leak or a ground spill has occurred.

Abstract: A method of determining the presence and temperature compensated volumetric flow rate of leaks in fluid pressurized pipelines. The pipeline is maintained at a first pressure and the fluid volume change per unit time is calculated. The pressure is then maintained at a second different pressure and a second fluid volume change per unit time is calculated. The system is then maintained at the first pressure while a third fluid volume change per unit time is calculated. The first and third rates are combined with the second rate to obtain a temperature compensated leak volumetric flow rate.

Abstract: Fluid is detected within a protective encasement of an hydraulic cylinder of an elevator by applying a low pressure to the interior of the encasement and sensing for the presence of fluid as a result of the application of the low pressure. If fluid is detected, a greater pressure is applied within the protective encasement to eliminate the detected fluid. The protective encasement, which may be pressurized, has a pressure input port, an evacuation port, and an evacuation tube which attaches to the fluid evacuation port and extends to a region within the encasement below the bottom of the cylinder.

Abstract: A triple-walled fluid containment system which includes a rigid metallic outside tank, an outer flexible bladder positioned within the rigid outside tank and a plurality of suspension elements between the tank and the outer bladder for suspending the flexible outer bladder within, and adjacent, the tank. An inner flexible bladder of complementary configuration to the outer bladder is located within, and adjacent, the outer bladder. A vacuum monitoring system communicates with the interstice between the outside and the inside bladder for evacuating the space therebetween.

Abstract: A storage tank system having primary and secondary containment capability is made from a rigid outer tank shell by forming in situ an inner tank of fibrous reinforcing material and resinous material. A separating material is initially positioned on the interior surface of the rigid outer tank. The closed space between the rigid outer tank shell and formed inner tank is monitored for leakage.

Abstract: Apparatus for, and method of, hydrostatically testing whether a line filled with a liquid, such as gasoline, is leaking comprising mechanism for closing one end of the line to be tested and an upstanding cylinder having its upper end coupled to the opposite end of the line to be tested. The cylinder is transparent and filled at its upper end with a liquid identical to the liquid in the line being tested and at its lower end, a second liquid of a substantially heavier density so that the liquids do not mix. Mechanism is provided for applying pressure to the heavier density liquid to force the liquid in the upper end of the cylinder into the line. The cylinder is transparent and includes graduations thereon so that the user can visualize whether or not the junction is moving.

Abstract: A fluid status detection system includes a plurality of probes connected to a controller. The controller includes a number of relays that may be programmed to latch either open or closed upon receipt of any one of several different alarms from the probes. The system includes a function that if a relay is latched and a second alarm occurs, then the relay releases for a second, then relatches. The system permits an operator to select the release and relatch latch function individually for each of the relays and to store the selection in a digital memory.

Abstract: A leak and liquid level detector includes a transistor as its main operating element with a pair of normally open base contacts connected to the transistor base. The transistor emitter is connected to ground and the transistor collector is connected to a suitable audio alarm, or alarm light or to a programmable logic controller. When a liquid leak bridges over the base contacts, a power circuit is closed across the contacts biasing the transistor and causing an electrical signal to flow from the collector to actuate the alarm, light or controller. The base contacts are linearly adjustable to sense various leak heights. The detector in one mode of use can be positioned horizontally to detect leaks and in a second mode of use is positioned vertically to detect a change in a liquid level in a tank, pipe column or the like.

Abstract: A precision liquid leak detector 10 free of mechanical moving parts is disclosed herein. The liquid leak detector 10 of the present invention is disposed to measure the rate of change of the volume of a liquid within a container 14. The leak detector 10 includes a light guide 16, implemented as an optical fiber, which is disposed within the container 14 and at least partially immersed in the liquid. The optical fiber 16 includes a fiber core circumscribed by a fiber cladding selected such that evanescent wave loss occurs as a result of immersion of the cladding within the liquid. The optical fiber 16 is positioned in optical alignment with a laser source 26, which injects optical energy therein. The leak detector 10 of the present invention further includes an arrangement 24 for measuring the decrease in the intensity of the injected optical energy occurring over a length of the fiber 16 immersed in the liquid.

Abstract: A fluid injection method of nondestructive testing for bonding between two layers of material, at least one of which is penetrable is presented. One or two fluid injection members are inserted at selected locations along the penetrable material to the bond line between the materials. In the single injection member test, a fluid under known pressure is injected through the injection member to the bond line. The flow is measured at several locations and an average flow rate under satisfactory bonding conditions is noted. Any flow rates in excess of some fixed amount above this established norm is considered unsatisfactory. In the two injection member test. The two members are adjacently inserted through the material to the bond line and a fluid under known pressure is injected from one injection member to the bond line. If a disbond exists between the two members, the second member receives fluid from the first at the bond line.

Abstract: An air pocket removal device is provided for the removal of residual air trapped in an underground fuel storage tank so that an accurate measurement can be made of the tank tightness and hence detect the presence of any leaks. The device is comprised of a guide column which can be fitted through the tank fuel inlet opening and which has an extendable hose fitted with a float which locates air pockets anywhere on the inner top surface of the tank. Any air present in the fuel storage can be withdrawn through the hose to the exterior.

Abstract: A system and method for injecting gas or fluid in the base beneath an above ground storage tank to enhance the rate of any leakage in the bottom of the tank, and detecting and locating the leak by acoustic sensors placed about the tank. The leak may then be sealed by injecting sealant through a probe placed beneath the tank in the area of the leak.

Abstract: A storage tank system especially useful for storing liquid gasoline comprises a storage tank, a covered sleeve attached to the storage tank and encompassing a fill line, a drip sump compartment positioned on the cover of the sleeve and a fill line extending through the drip sump compartment and sleeve. The enclosed sleeve area is preferably monitored for leakage. The storage tank as well as structural accessories such as a dispensing line can have an outer containment wall. The system results in a storage facility which is not likely to lose its stored liquid to the environment due to slow leaks or a sudden large leak by providing total containment capability.

Abstract: A storage tank system especially useful for storing liquid gasoline comprises a rigid inner storage tank, access lines extending through the tank, a sleeve encompassing the access lines, a jacket encasing the tank and at least part of the sleeve, and a drip sump compartment positioned on a sleeve cover to the sleeve to catch drippings from a fill operation. A leak detector is associated with the closed space between the inner tank and jacket to detect leaks. The system results in a storage facility which is not likely to lose its stored liquid to the environment due to slow leak or a sudden large leak by providing total containment capability.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting fluid leaks from aboveground fluid storage tanks is disclosed. The invention consists of radially disposing a plurality sample probes in the subsurface soil area underneath the aboveground tank. Each of the plurality of sample probes are connected to a vacuum pump and a sampling port to collect the soil gasses drawn from the subsurface soil area. At least one air injection probe is disposed in the subsurface soil area and extends underneath the aboveground tank to an approximate center point of the tank circumference. The volatile liquid phase tracer is mixed with the fluid in the tank, and soil gas samples are evacuated through the subsurface soil area underneath the tank into the sample probes, collected and analyzed for the presence of the gas phase tracer.

Abstract: A pressurized storage tank for toxic chemicals includes a shut-down valve assembly. Upon detection of a leak, the shut-down valve assembly stops the flow of chemicals from the outlet valves of the tank. The shut-down valve assembly is located within the pressure vessel of the tank for maximum safety. The outlet valves of the tank are external to the pressure vessel and are connected to the valve assembly. The shut-down valve assembly operates in a fail-safe manner, such that removal of power or control signals to the valve assembly results in the valves being closed.

Abstract: A method of making a jacketed storage tank comprises applying an open-cell synthetic foam over a rigid inner storage tank, applying a layer of fibrous reinforcing material on the separating agent, and applying a resinous material. The synthetic foam is at least partly sealed to prevent excessive resinous material penetration so as to maintain the continuous open-cell nature of the foam. The resultant jacket is structurally independent from the storage tank, yet is in such close proximity thereto that the resultant jacketed storage tank has an integral structural strength capable of withstanding external load forces normally encountered by underground storage tanks. Secondary containment with leak detection capability is provided.

Abstract: A method for inspecting a sealing property of a plastic container having contents. The container has a lid which is deflectable under a negative pressure developed in the container. The contents are charged in to the container so that a negative pressure is developed under a normal temperature or room temperature. The deflection of the lid is measured so as to detect the sealing property of the container.

Abstract: A standpipe leveler is suitable for use with the standpipe of a tank tester that is elevated to produce hydrostatic pressure on the tank. The leveler includes a graduate container for receiving liquid discharged from ports in the standpipe. The graduate container is connected to the inlet of a pump. The outlet of the pump is connected to the base of the standpipe for supplying liquid to the standpipe. A reservoir container may also be connected to the inlet of the pump and a drain or sump connected to the outlet of the pump. The graduate container may be located at a convenient level for the technician carrying out the hydrostatic pressure test to observe reduction of the liquid level in the graduate container due to leakage from the tank.

Abstract: In a process for testing the tightness of a flexible collapsible container which in condition of use is sealed by means of a screw cap screwed on a spout, the container is evacuated after its manufacture, tightly sealed and subsequently subjected to atmospheric pressure. If the container is tight, it will remain its shape caused by the vacuum. The device for the application of this process consists essentially of a suction bell on which the container is placed and features a rotor unit with the aid of which a cap can be screwed on the container. The invention enables as such a simple and dependable testing of collapsible plastic containers, but also of containers of stable form as well as closures, specifically screw caps.