Non-destructive testing devices - ultrasonic leak detectors - are used to diagnose and control the tightness of mechanical and electrical systems, detect corona discharges, arcs, air and gas leaks, and identify problems in the operation of pneumatic systems. The equipment is used to check the tightness of various compartments, salons of yachts, holds, planes, including for vibration diagnostics and monitoring the level of bearing lubricant.
Principle of operation
Ultrasonic leak detectors measure according to several parameters: noise level, ultrasonic signal, temperature and others. An ultrasonic sensor is built into the device. In the event of a leak of gas under pressure, a sound background is formed, including ultrasound, the direction of which allows you to determine the location of the source. A sensor with a microphone is supplied with the device, which captures sounds from the ultrasonic range and eliminates third-party noise that can reduce operating efficiency. Modern models can be connected to a computer for transmission, storage and exchange of information.
Causes and consequences of leakage
Leakage means the flow of gas or liquid through an opening formed as a result of deformation from a high-pressure region to a low-pressure region. In this case, a leak is accompanied by a loss of energy and / or material and a decrease in the efficiency of the entire system.
Lowering the efficiency and the need for additional costs for the material are disadvantageous for the head of the enterprise, respectively, leak elimination should be carried out in a short time.
The leak is also eliminated because in many systems there are explosive or toxic gases that can cause harm to people. Quick leak elimination is carried out for the following reasons:
- Economic.
- Enterprise Security.
- Lower material waste.
- More efficient use of energy.
- Support for productivity and workflow reliability.
- Lower costs for warranty service.
Ultrasonic Leak Detector SDT 270
The Belgian SDT leak detector is used to search for leaks in vacuum systems, pressure systems and any other systems in which the pressure is different from atmospheric.
Ultrasonic leak detector (UZTI) of this model can be used in almost any enterprise, including those where there is constant background noise from turbines, electric motors and other equipment. The SDT 270 only responds to frequencies in the range from 15 to 190.7 kHz, in which there is no extraneous noise, so the operator can accurately determine the location of the leak.
Six additional nozzles are supplied with the device, expanding the scope of the leak detector and simplifying the work with it.
Ultrasonic Leak Detector LD 400
The leak detector LD 400 is used to search for leaks of compressed air. Ultrasonic vibrations accompany any gas leakage through damage to pipelines. Using the device of this model it is possible to detect the smallest leaks, not audible to the human ear and not noticeable due to their small size, at a distance of several meters.
The ultrasonic air leak detector LD 400 converts ultrasonic signals into frequencies perceived by the human ear. Soundproof headphones that come with the device allow you to hear such signals even when working in noisy industrial premises. Ultrasonic generators are used in pneumatic systems without pressure and allow you to search for places of leaks of compressed air.
Optional equipment
Ultrasonic leak detectors are equipped with various accessories:
- A focusing nozzle improves leak detection accuracy.
- Acoustic tube. Thanks to the special design, acoustic waves are better recognized by the device. The handset is used as a directional microphone, eliminating third-party noise and making it easier to find leaks in hard-to-reach places. An acoustic tube can be used simultaneously with a laser pointer.
- The ultrasonic generator. Allows localization of leaks in systems that are not under high pressure. Due to the location of the ultrasonic generator, its signal passes through the smallest openings that can be detected with the LD 400 in the seals of hatches, windows and doors.
Features of using leak detectors
The search for most leaks by the sound of the outgoing air is often ineffective because the frequency at which sound is formed when the air or gas exits is in the ultrasonic range and is not perceived by the human ear. A self-made ultrasonic leak detector captures ultrasound and converts it into sound signals perceived by the human ear. Simultaneously with the sound signal, when an air leak is detected, a light indication is given, and the closer the leak detector to the sound source, the greater the number of indicators light up on its light panel.
Leak detector sensitivity is easily adjustable. Most models have three sensitivity thresholds - X1, X10 and X100. More fine tuning is done with the wheel. Special nozzles that come with the ultrasonic leak detector can improve the quality and accuracy of leak detection. Such nozzles increase the sensitivity of the device and drown out sounds from the side and back of the leak detector. Similar components are used if the leak is located next to moving parts of industrial equipment. Thanks to these features, ultrasonic leak detectors can be used in noisy environments and are not afraid of strong winds, dust and dirt.
A specially developed Sherlog system allows the use of leak detectors in the field of shipbuilding to check the tightness of ships. Today it is used for inspection of ships and vessels in Russia. It has a shockproof housing and compact dimensions, which allows you to transfer the device.
Application area
- Leak detection of air and gas leaks in various piping systems, including fittings, pipes, valves, cylinders, connections and tanks under high pressure.
- Diagnosis and detection of worn gears and bearings.
- Prevention and detection of short circuits in electrical systems and equipment.
- Search for leaks in air conditioning and cooling systems.
- Detection of cracks in rubber belts of equipment in constant motion.
- Identification of leaking areas of vacuum systems.
- Diagnostics of engine seals.