Accession Number:

ADA279231

Title:

Survey of Passive Leak Detection Technologies for Membrane Roofing

Descriptive Note:

Final rept.

Corporate Author:

CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING RESEARCH LAB (ARMY) CHAMPAIGN IL

Personal Author(s):

Report Date:

1994-03-01

Pagination or Media Count:

46.0

Abstract:

The U.S. Army has a large inventory of buildings with low-slope membrane roofs. Eventually, most of these roofs will experience flaws that allow water intrusion. The cost resulting from water damage to the roofing system, structure, and building contents that can occur between the time a leak begins and is located and repaired can be very high. A passive roof leak detection system PRLDS could help Army managers by providing early leak detection and could potentially reduce the Armys roofing maintenance budget. This study determined that a PRLDS contains four components sensors, signal, transmission medium, and signal processing unit. The sensors can be resistive, capacitive, circuit-bridging, or fiber optics. Sensor placement and spacing on a roof determine the systems resolution and should he based on the system cost and the interior use of the structure. A discussion of the reliability, compatibility, durability, and maintainability of components is included. This study also determined that several moisture-sensing technologies are feasible, including a water-activated batterytransmitter, a variety of probes, moisture detection tape, and coated wires. Because little documented experience with these new technologies exists, it is recommended that field investigations be conducted and design specifications be developed. Leak detection, Cost effectiveness, Passive Roof Leak Detection System PRLDS, Membrane roofing.

Descriptors:

Subject Categories:

  • Structural Engineering and Building Technology

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE


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