Electrical Leak Detection & Geomembrane Repairs
Electrical Leak Detection
Geotest is the market leader in electrical leak detection having completed testing of over ten million square meters of geomembrane. Our testing equipment is unlike anything else on the market. With extensive research and development, we have created the most sensitive and sophisticated electrical leak testing equipment in Australia
Geotest provide the full range of electrical testing methods including
Arc Testing – ASTM D7953
Electrical leak detection on exposed geomembranes using the arc testing method.
Dipole Testing - ASTM D7007
Electrical leak detection for locating leaks in geomembranes covered with water or earthen material.
Floating GPS Remote Dipole Testing - ASTM D7007
Electrical leak detection for locating leaks in geomembranes covered with water or earthen material.
Spark Testing – ASTM D7240
Standard practice for electrical leak detection on geomembranes with an insulating layer in intimate contact with a conductive layer via electrical capacitance technique (conductive geomembrane spark test).
Water Lance – ASTM 7703
Standard practice for electrical leak detection on exposed geomembranes using the water lance method.
Unrivalled Electrical Leak Location Capabilities
State of The Art Technology
Geotest has invested in state-of-the-art testing technology from Europe and the United States and our ongoing in-house research and development (R&D) program ensure we remain at the cutting edge of the geomembrane industry to provide a world-class leak detection service. Our R&D program has allowed us to refine and improve upon worldwide testing techniques to give greater scope and ability in our electrical surveys.
Sensitivity Down To 100 Microns
Our in-house R&D program has enabled us to enhance our electrical testing equipment which has been proven to be more accurate and sensitive than commercially available testing equipment. Our equipment is state of the art and thus we can detect holes as small as 100 microns (in certain applications) to give you absolute confidence in the integrity of your geo liner.
Electrical Leak Surveys: Dipole Testing
3D Survey Maps
Geotest is the only company in Australia able to offer remote dipole testing. Our 3D mapping system creates a digital record of your geo liner to provide clients with invaluable information regarding the integrity of the installation when preparing their reports and/or quality control summaries.
Deep Water Geo Lining Testing Without Decommissioning
The use of remote-control dipole testing provides clients with the ultimate flexibility meaning that deep water dams, ponds and reservoirs can be tested and surveyed whilst fully operational without the need to be decommissioned.
Permanent & Accurate Geo Lining Records
Our exclusive 3D modelling surveys enable us to offer customised solutions to clients. Our team can advise on the most cost-effective method of repair and can provide temporary and permanent fixes. 3D mapping of the structure creates a permanent and accurate record of the integrity of the liner. This allows greater flexibility to have repairs carried out immediately or at a later date, as accurate identification records are available for the future.
Geomembrane Repairs
Geotest – Experts In Geomembrane Repairs
With over 45 years of experience in the geomembranes industry, Geotest is an authority in all areas of Geosynthetics. We’ve tested over ten million square metres of geomembrane and our team are the market leaders in electrical leak location and repairs. Our repair capabilities cover all categories of geosynthetics including PVC, HCPE, CSPE, PV, EIS, EIA, EVA, LLDPE, VLDPE, XRS, XR3, PP, rPP and Hypalon.
IAGI (International Association Of Geosynthetic Installers) Approved
As an approved International Association of Geosynthetic Installers (IAGI) proctor for certification of welding technicians, we have an in-depth understanding of the welding techniques and their parameters, giving greater assurances to our clients of a successful installation.
Fast Turnaround On Geomembrane Repairs
Our testing team provide a fast turnaround and can be relied upon to quickly locate and repair all types of geosynthetics including
Floating liners
Tank liners
Dam liners
Pond liners
Landfill liners
Baffle curtains
Electrical Leak Detection & Geomembrane Repair- Project Overview
Electric Leak Detection & Repair – 60 Mega Litre Pond Liner
Geotest carried out leak detection testing and repaired a 60 mega litre potable water storage pond. The project involved the decommissioning of the original deteriorated liner and a repair to what was the floating cover in order for it to be used as the new lining.
Electrical Leak Detection Methods
In order to source the leaks, we used a variety of techniques starting with the inflation of the lining. Whilst underneath, the technicians were able to see daylight through the obvious holes which were documented for repair later. We used this opportunity to install our future leak detection system. The cover was carefully deflated to ensure it relocated correctly preventing further damage to the lining upon filling the pond with water again.
Over 200 geomembrane holes detected & repaired
Geotest then used a combination of vacuum testing and e-testing techniques to find, test and repair nearly 200 holes – some barely visible to the naked eye but with the potential to cause serious water loss once the pond was full. This just goes to show the amazing capabilities and accuracy of our e-testing systems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Electrical Leak Detection
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What is electrical leak detection (ELD) for geomembranes?
Electrical leak detection is a method used to identify leaks or defects in geomembranes by applying electrical testing techniques to find and locate potential breaches in the liner.
Why is electrical leak detection important for geomembranes?
Electrical leak detection is crucial for ensuring the integrity of geomembrane liners, especially in applications where the containment of liquids or gases is critical. Thanks to extensive in-house research and development, Geotest has developed market-leading leak testing equipment and can detect even the smallest of breaches down to 100 microns. This allows for accurate diagnosis and early repairs to prevent further damage and avoid environmental contamination or loss of containment.
How does electrical leak detection work on geomembranes?
Electrical leak detection involves applying electrical testing methods such as spark testing, dipole testing or arc testing to the geomembrane surface or through a conductive layer beneath it. The presence of a leak or defect causes a change in electrical currents, which are then measured and located using specialist equipment.
What are the common electrical leak detection techniques used for geomembranes?
The commonly used techniques for electrical leak detection on geomembranes include arc testing, spark testing, dipole testing and water lance testing.
What are the benefits of electrical leak detection on geomembranes?
Electrical leak detection offers several benefits, including early detection of leaks, precision detection and location of leaks and breaches down to 100 microns, prevention of environmental damage, reduced risk of containment failure and ensuring the long-term performance and integrity of geomembrane liners.
Can electrical leak detection be performed on all types of geomembranes?
Yes, electrical leak detection can be performed on various types of geomembranes, including high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), and other synthetic liners.
Is electrical leak detection a one-time process, or should it be done periodically?
Electrical leak detection is typically performed during the initial installation of geomembranes as part of quality assurance (CQC or CQA). However, periodic leak detection assessments are recommended to ensure the ongoing integrity of the liner, especially in critical applications or as part of regulatory compliance.
Can electrical leak testing be done without draining a pond or reservoir?
Yes, dipole electrical testing can be performed without having to drain your containment liquid or expose the geomembrane.
Who should conduct electrical leak detection on geomembranes?
Electrical leak detection on geomembranes should be performed by trained geomembrane engineers. The team at Geotest are pioneers in electrical testing and have unrivalled expertise in geomembrane installations, quality assurance, electric testing, geomembrane welding and repairs, so you can be assured of a quality job.
Are there any safety considerations during electrical leak detection on geomembranes?
Yes, safety precautions should be followed during electrical leak detection to avoid electrical hazards. This includes proper grounding, adherence to safety protocols and using equipment that meets electrical safety standards.
Can electrical leak detection methods be used on geomembrane repairs?
Yes, electrical leak detection techniques can be used to locate a leak or used in quality assurance to verify the effectiveness of the repair to ensure the integrity of the geomembrane liner moving forward.