James M Hudson

US Patent:

44856687, Dec 4, 1984

Filed:

Sep 30, 1982

Appl. No.:

6/431688

Inventors:

James H. Hudson - Sunrise FL
Arthur W. Otto - late of Lighthouse Pt. FL

Assignee:

Leak Detective, Inc. - Sunrise FL

International Classification:

G01M 324

US Classification:

73 405A

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for detecting leaks in pressurized mains comprising input coupling structures spaced along a main, each coupling permitting insertion of a detector head connected to a hose/cable of extended length, a reel and housing holding the hose/cable which is designed to input fluid into the hose and make electrical connections to microphone and transducer structure in the head. Leaks in the main are located by depressurizing the main, inserting the detector head through a coupling, feeding pressurized fluid through the hose into rearwardly projecting jets in the head for effecting travel thereof lengthwise of the main, stopping the fluid flow, again pressurizing the main to effect any leaks, energizing the microphone while slowly retracting the head by winding up the hose/cable on the reel at the input position, listening for leak noise as the head is retracted toward the insertion point, and upon leak noise being heard, stopping the retraction and then energizing the transducer within the head. Signals from the transducer can be detected by an above-ground receiver for pinpointing each leak. After suitably marking each point of leakage, the retraction, listening, stopping, signalling, etc.

US Patent:

46499482, Mar 17, 1987

Filed:

Nov 14, 1984

Appl. No.:

6/671247

Inventors:

James H. Hudson - Sunrise FL

Assignee:

Leak Detective, Inc. - Sunrise FL

International Classification:

G01M 304
G01M 324
F16L 5500

US Classification:

137 15

Abstract:

A fluid pressure entry tap valve for use with pressurized pipes comprising a Wye device with an on-off valve of the ball type in each of two forks of the Wye. Preferably, one fork is in-line with the stem of the Wye while the other fork is at an angle thereto. The Wye stem is externally threaded for complementary engagement with a pipe saddle structure. The saddle structure is designed for either clamping to the pipe, or for being welded thereto. During use the Wye fork which is straight in-line with the stem has it's ball valve opened so a wet tap drill can be inserted to make an opening into the pipe under pressure. Then after removal of the drill the associated valve is closed. A curved guide directional shoe then is mounted upon the Wye, the valve opened again, and the guide inserted through the Wye into the pressurized pipe. Then the ball valve in the angled other fork of the Wye can be opened and a detector head of leak detector apparatus inserted therethrough into the pipe while still under pressure.