How Does a Leak Detection System Work?

At RATMON, we specialise in monitoring systems that keep heat networks safe, efficient, and operational. One critical component of any district heating system is a leak detection system – a technology that safeguards infrastructure, minimises downtime, and helps avoid costly repairs.

Heat networks rely on insulated pipes carrying hot water to deliver heat from a central source to multiple buildings. If leaks go undetected, they can lead to:

• Energy loss and inefficiency
• Water damage to infrastructure
  
• Corrosion of pipes and components
• Increased operational costs

But how exactly does it work?

What is a Leak Detection System?

A leak detection system is a piece of equipment that discreetly monitors your heat network pipes 24/7 and alerts you in cases of fault conditions.

How Does it Work?

Pre-insulated pipe systems often include integrated detection wires (also called “monitoring wires”) that run along the length of the insulation. These systems typically operate as follows:

1. Detection Wires Embedded in the Insulation

Most pre-insulated pipes come with two copper detection wires embedded within the insulation layer. These are used to detect changes in electrical resistance or continuity.

2. Moisture Causes a Change in Electrical Signal

When a leak occurs (e.g. water ingress), moisture penetrates the insulation. Water is conductive, so it alters the electrical resistance between the wires. This change is picked up by a monitoring unit.

3. Alarm and Location

The system controller triggers an alarm—either visual, audible, or remote—and can pinpoint the location of the leak based on the resistance measured along the wire length. This helps maintenance teams respond quickly and accurately.

Nordic Network

The Nordic system uses two copper wires, one of which is tinned, embedded within the PUR insulation of a pre-insulated pipe. They are very efficient, leading to them being used extensively in heating and cooling networks across Europe. Our systems are extensively compatible with Nordic technology, allowing a lot of cross-pairing with their wires and our sensors. 

Nordic uses foam insulation resistance and loop (wire) continuity for fault detection, and TDR technology for fault location. 

Resistance Network

Two wires are also used in Resistance technology, along with a bespoke solution from Brandes. These sensors are also highly compatible with many Ratmon products. 

The fault detection comes from foam insulation resistance and loop (wire) continuity, and fault location is mapped by TDR technology. 

MSC-1 Sensor Cable

Our patented sensor technology of two double-wire MSC-1 cables gives you precise detection and location in pre-insulated pipes. Our cables are fully insulated, mitigating the risks of false alarms from the condensation effect. This is an excellent solution for monitoring polymer pre-insulated pipes, both Rigid and flexible type, where conventional wire systems are not as efficient. 

In this system, both fault detection and location are based on automated TDR technology, giving you a comprehensive view of the situation with ease. 

Do I Need a Leak Detection System?

Leak detection systems are an invaluable tool for preventing potential infrastructure damage and operational downtime if a leak occurs. The cost of a leak detection system is a fraction of the cost of repairing substantial operational loss. 

With a sophisticated leak detection system, you don’t have to wonder whether you may have a problem occurring beneath the ground. Any fault in the system will be indicated immediately, allowing you to address the leak before it grows from an irritation to a serious problem. 

RATMON Detection, Location, and Simulation Technology

With our range of high performance sensors and simulators, you will have unrestricted access to the monitoring of the pipes below your building, protecting the structure from water damage. Our technology covers a wide range of detection, location, monitoring, and simulation, so you can choose the level of control and visibility that works best for you. 

Some of our equipment, like the ILA 1.0, is specifically dedicated for district cooling systems. Others, such as the SMARTLOC-2, run instant diagnostics and record the GPS coordinates of a fault. All of our technology is specifically designed to remove risk and protect the foundations of any building. To fully protect your heating and cooling systems, Ratmon is here to find the faults you can’t see.