GB2521239A

GB2521239A - Leak detection system

Info

Publication number: GB2521239A
Application number: GB1410625.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: James Robert Collinson
Original assignee: JACK M COLLINSON
Current assignee: JACK M. COLLINSON
Priority date: 2013-12-13
Filing date: 2014-06-13
Publication date: 2015-06-17
Also published as: GB201410625D0

Abstract

The leak detection system for a plumbing circuit (2, fig 2) comprises a sheath (3, fig 1) arranged and constructed such that the inner surface of the sheath and the outer surface of the plumbing circuit form an interstitial channel 4 for fluid passage therein. The present invention also relates to a pipe sleeve 7, a connector jacket 6 (and see fig.7 item 12) and other devices for use with the leak detection system, a method for detecting a leak in a plumbing circuit, a method for locating a leak in a plumbing circuit and a method for preventing damage to a property or part thereof resulting from a leak in a plumbing circuit.

Description

Leak Detection System The present invention relates to leak detection system and more particularly, to a system for detecting and/or locating a leak from a plumbing circuit and for preventing damage resulting from a leak to the whole or part of a property.

Plumbing circuits are installed in most properties to circulate water throughout the property. Black water from toilets can be connected to the external sewage system from a first circuit and grey water from dishwashers, washing machines, wash basins, sinks, baths and showers, can be also be connected to the external sewage from a second circuit (and optionally recycled) and a third circuit can circulate water through the heating system. The circuits can be connected to each other for example to include a boiler and/or a water tank, or can join each other into a main pipe to expel the wastewater from the property into the sewage system.

A plumbing circuit includes a variety of interconnected elements, such as pipes and connectors, which are susceptible to leaks or breaks, and numerous solutions have been proposed to repair damaged elements. However, the property can suffer considerable water damage, if the leak or break is not located and attended to swiftly.

A number of electronic systems for detecting leaks have been developed in recent years.

Such systems comprise elements, such as electronic flow detectors, control units with microprocessors and software. They are expensive and complex and require skilled electronic professionals and/or experienced programmers for installation, maintenance and repairs.

Replacing a part would also be expensive. More importantly, these systems can detect a leak but often do not locate it, Traditionally, the location of the leak is investigated manually. However, this involves the removal of floorboards, plaster boards or tiles until the leak is found. In other words, the investigation could cause almost as much damage as the leak it is seeking to locate. More recently, non-invasive devices using technologies such as infrared thermal imaging have become more popular. While these devices allow the visualisation of the plumbing circuit under floorboards, they are less efficient in locating leaks. The visualisation is based on a thermal imprint and, as water cools down after leaking from the plumbing circuit, it will become less thermally visible, Again, expensive infrared thermal imaging equipment and skilled professionals are required to handle the equipment and carry out the investigation.

It is an object of this invention to mitigate problems such as those described above.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a leak detection system for a plumbing circuit comprising a sheath arranged and constructed such that the inner surface of the sheath and the outer surface of the plumbing circuit form an interstitial channel for fluid passage therein or therethrough. Thus, any water leaking from the plumbing circuit can be recovered thin the interstitial channel and conveyed along the channel, thereby preventing any water damage to the property or part thereof In a prefered embodiment, the sheath is made of a transparent material so that when a leak is suspected, the leaked water recovered within the interstitial channel is readily visible and the source of the leak is swiftly located. This feature also enables the person carrying out the repair to readily and safely assess the extent of the damage to the plumbing circuit, prior to carrying the repair.

Preferably, the sheath comprises a discharge outlet so that the water recovered in and carried along the interstitial channel can be evacuated through the discharge outlet to a position where it can be discarded safely. This could be for example inside or outside the property, towards a drain or sewage or for recycling if applicable.

More preferably, the system is compartmentalised and each compartment comprises a discharge outlet, The division of the system into a plurality of segments enables the source of the leak to be located. For example, where a plumbing circuit delivers water to a plurality of rooms in a property, then each room may have its own compartment; where a plumbing circuit delivers water to a plurality of appliances (e.g. heaters), then each appliance may have its own compartment; or the fluid inlet into an appliance and/or the fluid outlet out of an apparatus may have its own compartment. In this embodiment, any fluid leaking from a compartment of the system will be recovered and carried along the interstitial channel to its discharge outlet so that the location of the leak can be readily identified. Advantageously, drawings are prepared including the specifications of the system. The specifications include an indication of the sheath element used and its location, measurements of each element of both the sheath and the plumbing circuit so that the system can identify, not only the room or compartment in which the leak is ocated, but also the location of said leak within the room or compartment.

Preferably, the sheath is modular. A plumbing circuit will typically consist of a plurality of elements, including for example pipes, connectors and valves of various shapes and dimensions, which can be in fluid communication with each other. A modular sheath used in the present system will reflect this variety so that the plumbing circuit can be adequately covered in a waterproof manner. Another advantage of the modular aspect of the sheath is that local repair can be easily achieved. For example, where the leak originates from a discrete breach in a pipe, then only that part of the sheath which needs to be removed to reach the breach is detached, thereby involving minimum disruption and damage to the system. Similarly, should the sheath itself suffer damage, then only the damage part needs to be repaired or replaced. Thus, a modular sheath enables a optimum fit and protection to the plumbing circuit, while minimi sing the repair and/or replacement costs when the system or plumbing circuit is damaged.

The sheath may comprise a pipe sleeve. The sleeve is preferably tubular to follow the contour of a conventional pipe. The dimensions of the sleeve must be greater than that of the pipe it surrounds so as to create an interstitial channel between the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the pipe.

In a preferred embodiment, the sleeve is can be slid over and along the pipe. Alternatively, the pipe sleeve may comprise two sleeve parts which are detachably connectable to each other.

Preferably, the sleeve is divided into substantially two half-pipes along the longitudinal direction of the sleeve. Thus, the two parts can be positioned around a pipe and connected to each other to form the sleeve and the interstitial channel.

The sheath comprises a connector jacket. The jacket may be arranged and constructed to surround partly or wholly a two-way connector (such as an L-shaped connector), a three-way connector (such as a T-shaped connector) or a pipe. When surrounding a two-or three-way connector, the jacket comprises a portion with substantially the same shape as the connector, but larger dimensions so as to create an interstitial channel between the inner surface of the jacket and the outer surface of the connector. For example, a jacket for a three-way connector can be a three-way connector of larger dimension. When surrounding a pipe, the jacket may take the shape of a two-or three-way connector.

Preferably, the connector jacket comprises two jacket parts which are detachably connectable to each other along a longitudinal direction of the jacket so that the shapes of the two parts are symmetrically opposed. For example, in the case of an L-shaped connector, one part is forms an L and the second part a reversed L shape; in the case of a T-shaped connector, each part form a T-shape, Thus, the two parts (bottom and top parts) can be positioned around a connector and connected to each other to form the jacket and the interstitial channel.

The jacket may comprise a cup arranged and constructed to surround partly or wholly a tap connector. A cup-shaped jacket may be placed around a tap connector (e.g. under a sink) in order to recover any fluid leaking from the connector in the interstitial channel between the outer surface of the tap connector and the inner surface of the jacket. The base of the cup is preferably in fluid connection with the rest of the leak detection system so that the fluid is carried along the system for detection.

Preferably, the cup comprises two cup parts which are detachably connectable to each other along a longitudinal direction of the cup. The two parts (e.g. back and front parts or right and left parts) can be positioned around a tap connector and connected to each other to form the jacket and the interstitial channel.

Alternatively, the cup is made of a single part. in this embodiment, the cup may be made of rubber and can be connected to the sheath by means of a clip such as a jubilee clip to ensure that the connection is watertight.

Preferably, the sheath is partly or wholly corrugated, This feature is particularly advantageous because the sheath can flexibility fit over a rigid plumbing circuit to prevent blockage and/or to facilitate installation.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a pipe sleeve for use in the system as described in any one of the preceding paragraphs.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a connector jacket for use in the system according to any one of the preceding paragraphs.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for detecting a leak in a plumbing circuit comprising the step of fitting a system according to any one of the preceding paragraphs onto a plumbing circuit.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for locating a leak in a plumbing circuit comprising the step of fitting a system according to any one of the preceding paragraphs onto a plumbing circuit.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for preventing damage to a property or part thereof resulting from a leak in a plumbing circuit comprising the step of fitting a system according to any one of the preceding paragraphs onto a plumbing circuit.

The invention will be frirther described with reference to the drawings and figures, in which figure 1 is a schematic representation of a system according to the present invention; figure 2 is a schematic representation of a conventional plumbing circuit in a property; figure 3A is a schematic representation of a first compartment in a system as shown in figure 1; figure 3B is a schematic representation of a first compartment in a system as shown in figure 1; figures 4A to 4D are schematic representations of discharge outlets of a system as shown in figures and 3; figures SA to 5C are schematic representations of a sleeve for use in a system according to the present invention; figures 6A and 6B are schematic representations of sleeve connectors for use in a system according to the present invention; figures 7A to 7D are schematic representations of a three way connector jacket for use in a system according to the present invention; figures 8A to 8D are schematic representations of a two way connector jacket for use in a system according to the present invention; figure 9 is a schematic representation of a cup jacket for use in a system according to the present invention; figure 10 is a schematic representation of a cap for use in a system according to the present invention; figure II is a schematic representation of a connection system for use in a system according to the present invention; figure 12 is a schematic representation of a closing means for use in a system according to the present invention; figures 13 and 14 are schematic representations of wall connector for use in a system according to the present invention; and figure 15 is a schematic representation of a securing means for use in a system according to the present invention, Within the context of the invention, the terms "building" and "property" are interchangeable and mean any type of building or structure which may require a plumbing circuit, including but not limited to domestic or residential properties (for example a house, flat, garage or out-building) and commercial or industrial buildings and structures (for example office buildings, warehouses, factories and the like), Referring to figure 1, there is illustrated a leak detection system I for a plumbing circuit 2 comprising a sheath 3 arranged and constructed such that the inner surface of the sheath 3 and the outer surface of the plumbing circuit 2 form an interstitial channel 4 for fluid passage therein.

Figure 2 is a simplified diagram of a property P comprising a conventional plumbing circuit, Water is introduced into the circuit from the mains M, through a cold water tank C to a hot water storage tank H connected to a boiler B. The water circulates from the water heating system H, B to sequentially feed, in this case, a number of heaters HI, 1-12, 1-13, each located in a separate room Ri, R2, R3 and returning to the water heating system. If the plumbing circuit becomes damaged through a breach or corrosion, water will leak from the circuit and, unless detected and repaired promptly, will cause damage to the area surrounding the leak, Often the leak will not be detected until the damage is substantial enough to become visible, This is particularly true if the damage to the circuit is located under the floorboards.

Turning back to figure 1, the leak detection system 1 is shown fitted onto a conventional plumbing system 2. An advantage of the system I is that it can be easily fitted onto an existing plumbing circuit 2, as well as onto a new plumbing circuit 2 for example as the property is being built, Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention in which the plumbing circuit 2 is compartmentalised so that it becomes possible to locate and identify the source of a leak upon simple visual inspection of the discharge outlets 5. The property P comprises a number of separate rooms Ri, R2, R3, each comprising an appliance requiring hot water feed, in this case, a heater HI, H2, H3 Figure 3A shows one compartment formed by the hot water inlet of heater 1-fl in room RI.

The plumbing circuit 2 in this compartment consists of a pipe 8 connecting the water heating system to a heater Hi, The leak detection system 1 can be located over the floorboards for best visibility or hidden under the floorboards for aesthetic reasons and economy of space. The system 1 for this compartment comprises a three-way connector 6 joining three pipe sleeves 7 and surrounding a pipe 8 to create an interstitial channel 4 between the inner surface of the connector 6 and sleeves 7, and the outer surface of the pipe 8. The three-way connector 6 is fitted such that water leaking from the pipe 8 is carried out of the channel 4 towards discharge outlet SA through a wall W. The system 1 comprises a wall connector 30 with a first portion of larger diameter 30a and a second portion of smaller diameter 30b. The elements 6, 7, 30 are connected to each other using nuts 13 and washers (not shown). The discharge outlets 5 have a length of 400 to 430 mm and, preferably, the wall W comprises lintels L to support the outlets 5.

The compartments of figure 3A and figure 3B differ in that in figure 3B a push fit connection 31b replaces the elbow connection 3]a.

Thus, the plumbing circuit 2 can be compartmentalised so that each compartment comprises its own interstitial channel 4 and discharge outlet 5. Figures 4A to 4D show the discharge outlets 5, individually labelled to indicate which compartment they correspond to. In the case of a leak in one compartment, the water is recovered in the interstitial channel 4 and carried to its discharge outlet 5, where the location of the leak can be readily identified, In figure I, the compartments may be as large or small as required. In its simplest form, the system I comprises a single discharge outlet S and enables the detection of a leak. Water exiting the plumbing circuit 2 through a breach will flow through the channel 4 between the plumbing circuit 2 and the sheath 3 and will be indicative of a leak in the plumbing circuit 2.

The sheath 3 may comprise one or more of the elements described below by way of

examples.

Elements of the sheath 3 are arranged and constmcted such that the inner surface of the element and the outer surface of the plumbing circuit 2 form an interstitial channel 4 for fluid passage therein or therethrough and one or more connection points with a securing means for attaching itself to another element of the sheath. The securing means can be in the form of complementary screw means 7B, 7C as shown for example in figure 5A and/or the screw means can be replaced with a nut 26 and washer 14. For example, a rubber washer 14 is placed around the connection point of a first element for a watertight seal; a nut H is placed around the connection point of a second element, the connection point of the second element is placed onto the washer 14; and a secured attachment is achieved by tightening the nut 13 around the connection point of the second element (see e.g. figure 13). Alternatively, a connector 9 can be used to secure two elements of the sheath 2 together as shown for example in figure 11. These securing means will be described in further detail below.

A sleeve 7 for use in the present invention is described with reference to figure 5A, The sleeve 7 comprises a central elongate portion 7A and connection point with securing means 7B at each end thereof The cross section of the central elongate portion 7A could be substantially circular, triangular, square, rectangular or other shape. However, a generally tubular sleeve 7 with a circular cross section is preferred, firstly to follow the contours of a conventional plumbing pipe 8, but also to facilitate water flow and installation.

The sleeve 7 is provided in different lengths depending on the length of the pipe 8 to be sheathed. The diameter of the sleeve 7 will depend on the diameter of pipe 8 and some examples are provided below, The dimensions of the sleeve 7 will also depend the space available for the plumbing circuit 2 and the leak detection system 1. More importantly, it will depend on the amount of water circulating within the pipe 8. Indeed, the relative dimensions of the sleeve 7 and the pipe 8 will define the size and capacity of the interstitial channel 4, The channel 4 should be suitable to accommodate and carry from small to large amount of leaked water. Ideally, the interstitial channel 4 or the space between the outer surface of the plumbing circuit 2 and the inner surface of the sheath 3 is tO-lSmm for optimum flow. If the channel 4 is too large, then the leaked fluid could stagnate; if the channel 4 is too small, then the flow rate will increase and in the case of a maj or breach in the plumbing circuit, the sheath 3 itself could become damaged. For example, the inventor has found that a 37mm diameter sleeve 7 is most suitable for domestic plumbing systems, including pipes having diameters of 10, 15 or 22mm diameter.

The elongate central portion 7A of the sleeve 7 is made of a transparent material so that once the general location of the leak is determined (e.g. inlet flow into heater Hi in room Ri), a more accurate visual localisation is possible. Once the exact location of the leak is identified, the extent of the leak can be readily visually assessed and preparations for repairs can be made, without worrying that the leak will damage the surrounding area in the meantime.

The elongate central portion 7A is made of a flexible, durable and waterproof material. The elongate central portion 7A shown in figure 5 comprises corrugation to further improve the overall flexibility of the sleeve 7 and facilitate fitting around a pipe 8. The flexibility of the sleeve 7 is also advantageous in that the minimised the risk of blockage in the interstitial channel 4. This is particularly so when fitting the sleeve 7 over a rigid plumbing circuit which does not allow for much movement.

The sleeve 7 comprises connection points with securing means 7B at each of its distal ends, The securing means 7B enable the connection of the sleeve 7 to another element of the sheath 3, such as another sleeve, a connector, a cup or a cap, as described in further detail below.

The sleeve 7 can comprise one or more securing means 7B.

Generally, the elements of the system according to the present invention can comprise one or more different types of securing means. In figure 5A, the sleeve 7 comprises two securing means 7B both shown as screw connections inside or outside the connection point. It is understood that the securing means 7B could also be another suitable watertight securing means, With reference to figure SB, the securing means 7B are screw connections, which are connected by means of a nut i3 and washer i4.

If required, the length of the sleeve 7 can be adjusted by disconnecting the elongate central portion 7A from the connection point, adjusting the length by cutting it or replacing with a longer portion 7A and reconnecting to the connection point. Alternatively, the elongate central portion 7A may be cut without disconnecting it from the connection point. In this case, the portion 7A is shortened and the removed portion is replaced with a push-fit fitting of suitable dimensions. The push-fitting can comprise a jubilee clip 32 as shown in figure SC or simply a nut-washer combination.

A sleeve connector 9 is provided for example to connect one sleeve 7 to another sleeve 7 or to provide a short extension to a sleeve 7 or other element of the sheath 3. An example of such sleeve connector 9 is shown in figures 6A and 6B. The sleeve connector 9 is substantially tubular. Secuing means can provided on its outer surface, alternatively, connection can be effected using a washer and a nut.

The sleeve connector 9 is divided along its longitudinal direction into two parts 9A, 9B so that each of parts 9A and 9B form a half-pipe shape. Parts 9A and 9B are detachably connectable to each other, for example by means of complementary clips or hooks bA, lOB, clip 1OA is such that it can hook onto clip lOB in a secure and watertight manner, For example, clip IOA can comprises a recess which clips onto clip lOB. To ensure optimum seal, the clip 10 or hook extends along the lengths of the sleeve 7. To further improve seal, the parting line between the sleeve connector 9 and another element of the sheath 3 is covered by a sealing means 11 (for example a washer) The sealing means 11 covers at least the clips 10, but can cover the whole connection point. Two alternatives of the sealing means 11 are shown in figure 6A on a sleeve connector 9 but can be used with any other element of the sheath, The dimension of the outer diameter of the sleeve connector 9 is such that it enables connection with another element of the sheath 3, such as securing means 7B of a pipe sleeve 7 or a connectorjacket as described below, The sheath 3 can comprise one or more connector jackets, which may be used to surround a three-way connector, a two-way connector or a pipe. Within the context of the invention, the 1] expression "two-way connector" designates a pipe with two arms bent at an angle (which is not 00 or 1800), for example an elbow connector.

A three-way connector jacket 12 for use in the present invention is shown in figures 7A- 7B. The jacket 12 is substantially shaped as a three-way connector (for example a T-shaped three way connector) and is suitable to surround a three-way connector (of smaller dimensions) of the plumbing circuit 2. Alternatively, the jacket 12 can surround a two-way connector or a pipe 8 and provide fluid communication to another channel 4 or a discharge outlet 5 as shown for

example in figure 3.

Figures 7A and 7B shows the top and bottom parts, respectively of a two-part three-way connector jacket 12. The three-way connector jacket 12 is divided into two parts 12A and 12B, along its longitudinal direction so that two symmeffical T-shaped parts are obtained. As described with reference to the two-part sleeve 7 above, the two parts of the jacket are detachably connectable to each other by means of clips or hooks 10. The connected clips 10 may be covered at the connection line of the jacket 7 with another element, with a sealing means 11.

The jacket 12 comprises one or more securing means or connection points (not shown), in this case one on the outer surface of each arm, For example, the securing means of the connector jacket 12 comprises a screw connection and can be connected to a corresponding screw connection 7B of a sleeve 7 so that when the two parts 12A, 12B of the connector jacket 12 are assembled, they can be further secured to each other as the sleeve 7 surrounds and clamps the two parts 12A, 12B of the connector jacket 12 together. This also ensures that the connection between the sleeve 7 and the connector jacket U is watertight. Alternatively, connection can be achieved using nut 13 and washer 14.

A two-way connector jacket 15 for use in the present invention is shown in figures 8A to 8D. The jacket 15 is substantially shaped as a two-way connector or elbow connector and is suitable to surround a two-way connector (of smaller dimensions) of the plumbing circuit, Alternatively, the jacket 12 can surround a pipe 8 and provide fluid communication to another channel 4 or a discharge outlet 5, Figures 8B and 8C shows the top and boftom parts 12A, 12B of a two-part two-way connectorjacket 15 in a disassembled state. The two-way connectorjacket ISis divided into two parts iSA and 1SB, along its longitudinal direction so that two mirror image L-shaped parts are obtained. As described with reference to the two-part sleeve 7 above, the two parts of the jacket 15 are detachably connectable to each other by means of clips or hooks 10 and/or sealed with sealing means.

The jacket 15 could comprise one or more securing means (not shown) one on the outer surface of each arm. For example, the securing means of the connector jacket 15 comprises a screw connection and can be connected to a corresponding screw connection 7B of a sleeve 7 so that when the two parts ISA, 1 SB of the connector jacket 15 are assembled, they can be further secured to each other as the sleeve 7 surrounds and clamps the two parts iSA, tSB of the connector jacket 15 together. This also ensures that the connection between the sleeve 7 and the connector jacket 15 is watertight. Alternatively, connection can be achieved using nut 13 and washer 14. The length of one or more arms of the two-or three-way connector jacket 12, 15 can be adjusted by means of a connector 9 or push-fit fitting, as required.

Figure 9 shows an example of a cup t8 for used in a system according to the present invention. The cup t8 is particularly useful for surrounding the plumbing circuit located under a sink or basin, such as tap connectors 19. The cup 18 is funnel-shaped so that any water leaking from the tap connectors 19 can be recovered and carried down into the leak detection system towards a discharge outlet S. The cup 18 can consist of two parts, as the other elements of the sheath 3, along its longitudinal direction so that it can be easily fitted around the tap connectors 19. The top parts can be clipped together as described above in connection to the sleeve 7, The base portion of the cup 18 comprises a securing means for connection to another element of the sheath 3, such as a sleeve 7 (not shown), a two-or three-way connector or other element, or connection can be effected by means of a nut 13 and washer t4 combination.

Each or some of the elements of the sheath 3, which are made of two attachable parts, can be connected by means of a clip 10. The connected clips 10 may be covered at the connection line of the jacket 7 with another element, with a sealing means ii -As mentioned above, the elements of the sheath 3 can be connected to each other by means of a screw means or a nut 13 and washer 14 combination.

The sheath 3 may comprise a cap 20 as shown in figure 10 to close the leak detection system 1. The cap 20 comprises an elongate portion 21 with a securing means 22 on its outer surface. One distal end 23 of the cap 20 is open and in fluid communication with the remainder of the leak detection system 1. The other distal end 24 of the cap 20 is closed. This cap 20 is ideal for closing an end of a sleeve 7, when required.

Each compartment can be closed by means of a cap 20 or by sealing the end of the sheath 3 with a nut 13 and washerl4. The cap may have a connection point with a securing means, such as a screw connection (not shown) or will be connected to other elements of the sheath 3 by means of a nut 13 and washer 14 combination.

A further element of the sheath 3 is a wall connector 16 comprising a portion 16a of larger diameter for connection to the system according to the present invention and a portion lob of smaller diameter for connection to the discharge outlet 5. The cavity wall thickness will typically be around 265mm, The portions tóa and t6b are tubular members which are aligned with each other, In an alternative embodiment, the portions tóa and 16b are tubular members which are arranged at an angle of substantially 90° to ensure a good flow of leaked water towards the discharge outlet 5. The diameter of each portion 16a, lob is from 10mm to 40mm. The wall connector 30 connects the end of the leak detection system t of each compartment to its specific discharge outlet 5. The diameter of portion lGa is smaller than that of portion lob. The portions 16b can be directed connected to discharge outlets S or further elements, such as push fit or connectors may be used. The larger portion I Ga are made of a durable and robust material as this portion of the wall connector 30 is at least partially located within a cavity of a wall or partition of the property, A typical diameter for the wall cavity is around 265mm.Each of the discharge outlets 5 can be labelled and arranged in a box for ease of use and visualisation.

Any element of the sheath 3 (ic, sleeve, sleeve connector, two-way connector jacket, three-way connector jacket, cup, wall connector and other elements) may consist of two detachably connectable parts. This enables the sheath to be readily and easily fitted onto or removed from the plumbing circuit. The modular nature of the leak detection system according to the present invention enables the fitting or repair, as required, without the need to fit, replace or repair the entire system and therefore has considerable cost benefits.

In some instances, it may be difficult to screw the elements to one another due to lack of space or in view of the structure of the plumbing circuit. A simple alternative to the securing means described above is to provide a (sleeve) connector 9 to secure a connection point of an element to a connection point of a second element of the sheath 3. An example of connection is shown in figure 11, in which two sleeves 7 are connected by a connector 9, A rubber washer 14 is placed around the connector 9; the nut 13 is placed around the connection point of a first sleeve 7; the connection point of the first sleeve 7 is placed onto the washer 14; the nut is tightened for a secured and watertight seal. The same operation is repeated with the second sleeve 7 so that a watertight connection with the first sleeve is created, through connector 9. The connections are made watertight by including washers 14 and nut 13, For optimum visibility, one or more elements of the sheath 3 can be made of a transparent material. The element(s) can be transparent in part or in its entirety.

As described above, the dimensions of each securing means or connection points can be modified so that the elements of the sheath 3 can be connected to each other in a watertight manner, Similarly, the securing means can be adapted so that the one-part element has a male connection point capable of clamping the female connection point of an assembled two-part element. Each connection point (securing means) have a diameter of from 16mm to 40mm and can cover pipes which diameters of from 10mm to 40mm (e.g. 10, 15, 22, 28, 32, 35 or 40mm).

In use, in a property P comprising a plurality of rooms RI, R2, R3, each room comprising an appliance Hi, H2, H3 into which water is to be fed, the leak detection system according to the present invention is fitted as follows.

The plumbing circuit 2 is divided into a number of compartments as required. A compartment consisting of the water inlet into appliance Hi in room RI is used as an example.

The water inlet consists of a pipe 8 running from a wall or floor to the water inlet port of appliance Hi.

A sleeve 7 is slid along a first portion of the pipe 8 connected to the floor. The compartment is closed at one end of the sleeve 7 by a cap 20 or simply with a nut 13 and washer 14. The bottom part 1 2B of a three-way connector jacket 7 is placed under the pipe 8 at a second portion of the pipe 8 adjacent the first portion of the pipe 8. The top part t2A is placed on above the pipe 8 and clipped to the bottom part 2B by means of corresponding clips 10, which are covered with a sealing means 11. The inner surface of the assembled three-way connector jacket 12 and the outer surface of the pipe 8 form an interstitial channel 4. The connection point of the sleeve 7 is connected to (e.g. screwed around) the connection point of the three-way connector jacket 12 clamping the two parts 12A and 12B together in a watertight manner. A second sleeve 7 is slid on a third portion of the pipe 8 adjacent the second portion. The connection point of the second sleeve 7 is screwed onto a second connection point of the three-way connector jacket 12 in a watertight manner, The second end of the sleeve 7 is closed around the pipe 8 with a nut-washer combination or using a cap 20. The third arm of the three-way connector jacket 12 is connected to a third sleeve 7, which in turn is in fluid connection with a discharge outlet 5A.

The elements of the sheath 3 are secured to joints for example by using a securing means 21 comprising two pivotable arms 21a (e.g. able to spin 360°). This clip is also useful for pulling the sleeve and/or connector down so as to create a fall. Thus, the water recovered in the interstitial channel can flow to the designated discharge outlet.

When the pipe 8 is damaged, water leaks from the pipe 8 into the interstitial channel 4. The water leaking from the plumbing circuit is carried through the interstitial channel by gravity. The pipes of the plumbing circuit 2 and the sheath 3 are arranged in a generally vertical arrangement so that the water will travel down the length of the channel 4 to the discharge outletS. The water will exit from discharge outlet 5A. This will indicate that a leak has occurred in the compartment connected to discharge outlet SA.

Once the compartment has been identified, only the floorboards located above the compartment need be removed, As the sheath 7 is transparent, the plumber can immediately locate the exact position of the leak and assess the extent of the damage. There will be no damage to the property whist water is still circulating in the plumbing system, as the leaked water will be evacuated through the discharge outlet SA.

Examples -Sheath elements The wall thickness of any element described herein is preferably from 2 to 4 mm, most preferably 3mm, The diameters listed below refer to the inner diameter of the element.

Sleeve 7 * Overall length: 500mm, t000mm, 10,000mm, 20,000mm * Elongate portion diameter: 37mm for 10, 15, 22mm diameter plumbing pipes * Connection point length: 32mm * Connection point diameter: 37mm * Distance between the grooves in screw connection: 1mm Sleeve connector 9 * Overall length: 70mm * Diameter when assembled: 33mm Three-way connector 6 * Diameter when assembled: 33mm * Arm length: 33mm Two-way connector 12 * Diameter when assembled: 33mm * Arm length: 50mm * Arms at substantially 90° angle Wall connector 1 6 * Length of portion 30a: 350mm * Length of portion 30b: 103mm (diameter 10mm) Wall connection 16 diameter to fit connector 6,12 connection point diameter Wall connection 1 6a diameter (mm) Connector 6,12 diameter (mm) 17 21 22 26 29 33 39 29 33 39 43 Wall connection 16 diameter to fit sleeve 7 connection point diameter WaH connection I Ga diameter (mm) S'eeve 7 diameter (mm) 21 25 26 30 33 37 39 43 33 37 43 47 All leaving 4mm space for a washer between the sheath element and the wall connection. CapI9

* Length: 32mm * Connection point: 30mm Capi9 diameter (mm) Sleeve 7 diameter (mm) 21 25 26 30 33 37 39 43 43 47 Capl9 diameter (mm) Connectorjaclcet diameter (mm) 17 21 22 26 29 33 34 38 39 43 Leaving 4mm space for a washer between the cap and the sleeve or the cap and the connector jacket.

Clip 10 * Diameter: 10-40mm * Leg length: 50-100mm Examples -Relative dimensions

Example A B C D B F

Plumbing pipe -diameter (mm) 10 t5 22 28 28 32 Sleeve -diameter (mm) 25 30 37 43 37 47 Sleeve connector -diameter 21 26 33 38 33 43 (mm) Gap between the sleeve and the 4-5 4-5 4-5 5 4 4-5 connector for the rubber washer (mm) The present invention has been described by way of example with respect to a water plumbing circuit. However, it is understood that the invention may be applied to other circuits tS including inter-connected elements for carrying liquids and fluids other than water.

The system according to the present invention can be used for detecting leaking from a plumbing circuit, for locating a leak in a plumbing circuit and/or for preventing damage to a property or part thereof resulting from a leak in a plumbing circuit.

Thus, from the above description, it can be seen that the present invention provides a simple yet efficient system for locating the source of a leak in a plumbing circuit, without the need for invasive and destructive investigation. Repairs can be carried out swiftly so that damages to the property are minimised or prevented altogether.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A leak detection system for a plumbing circuit comprising a sheath arranged and constructed such that the inner surface of the sheath and the outer surface of the plumbing circuit form an interstitial channel for fluid passage therein.
2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the sheath comprises a discharge outlet.
3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the system is compartmentalised, and each compartment comprises a discharge outlet.
4. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the sheath is modular,
5. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the sheath comprises a tubular pipe sleeve.
6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the pipe sleeve comprises two sleeve parts which are detachably connectable to each other along the longitudinal direction of the sleeve.
7. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the sheath comprises a connector jacket.
8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the jacket is aranged and constructed to surround partly or wholly a two-way connector, a three-way connector or a pipe.
9. The system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the connector jacket comprises two jacket parts which are detachably connectable to each other along a longitudinal direction of the jacket.
10. The system according to claim 7, wherein the jacket comprises a cup arranged and constructed to surround partly or wholly a tap connector. 2]11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the cup comprises two cup parts which are detachably connectable to each other along a longitudinal direction of the cup.12. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the sheath is made of a S transparent material.13. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the sheath is partly or wholly corrugated.14. A system for a plumbing circuit substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples.IS. A pipe sleeve for use in the system according to any preceding claim.16. A pipe sleeve substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples.17. A connector jacket for use in the system according to any preceding claim.18. A connector jacket substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples.19. A method for detecting a leak in a plumbing circuit comprising the step of fitting a system according to any one of claims I to 14 onto a plumbing circuit.20. A method for locating a leak in a plumbing circuit comprising the step of fitting a system according to any one of claims 3 to 14 onto a plumbing circuit.21. A method for preventing damage to a property or part thereof resulting from a leak in a plumbing circuit comprising the step of fitting a system according to any one of claims Ito N onto a plumbing circuit.