Smart City Heating Grid Defect Monitoring System

Abstract

The introduction of IoT devices, high-frequency microprocessor sensors, and adaptive signal processing algorithms opens up new opportunities for meaningful interpretation of dynamic processes in pipelines. In particular, one of the most common but difficult-to-diagnose problems remains air voids and traffic jams that occur at the upper points of the route profile when filling, emptying or breaking the tightness of the system. Timely detection of such inclusions is of critical importance, since their adiabatic compression upon resumption of circulation creates dangerous hydrodynamic shocks and local thermal overheating, which significantly reduce the life of pipes and shut-off valves. The modern element base makes it possible to record these transients with sufficient detail to identify the characteristic features of a two-phase flow. This paper presents the results of experimental studies on a specialized heating line stand made in the form of a closed rectangular circuit and equipped with a frequency-controlled pump, a water heater, high-speed pressure and temperature sensors, as well as a programmable logic controller for data collection and control algorithms. The practical significance of the work is to create a scientifically sound basis for the development of algorithms for the operation of controllers and top-level systems that automatically detect dangerous air inclusions, predict the remaining life of the pipeline and make decisions about the need for maintenance without stopping heat supply and expensive diagnostic procedures.