Sigma 530 Ultrasonic compressed air leak detector

Compressed air leak detection equipment plays a crucial role in preventing downtime and improving the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of industrial operations. Here's how it helps:
Minimizes Energy Waste: Compressed air systems are often one of the largest consumers of energy in industrial settings. Air leaks can result in a significant loss of compressed air, leading to higher energy consumption and costs. Leak detection equipment helps identify and locate these leaks quickly, allowing for prompt repairs and preventing wastage of energy.

Prevents Equipment Damage: Air leaks can lead to pressure drops in the system, which can negatively impact the performance of pneumatic equipment. Consistent pressure is essential for proper operation. Detecting and fixing leaks promptly can prevent wear and tear on equipment, extending its lifespan and reducing the likelihood of costly breakdowns.

Maintains Productivity: When compressed air systems are inefficient due to leaks, it can result in reduced productivity and increased downtime. By using leak detection equipment to identify and repair leaks proactively, you can maintain consistent and reliable operation, minimizing interruptions to production processes.

Reduces Maintenance Costs: Frequent air leaks can lead to increased maintenance and repair costs for the compressed air system. Identifying and fixing leaks before they become severe can save on maintenance expenses and extend the life of the equipment.

Enhances Safety: Compressed air leaks can create safety hazards in the workplace, including noise pollution and the risk of flying debris. Leak detection equipment can help in identifying and addressing these hazards, thereby enhancing workplace safety.

Environmental Benefits: Reduced air leaks mean lower energy consumption, which can lead to a reduced carbon footprint and a more environmentally friendly operation.

Improved Cost Efficiency: By preventing energy wastage and reducing maintenance and repair costs, compressed air leak detection equipment helps in optimizing the cost efficiency of industrial operations.

Applications include leak detection for,

 

  • Compressed air systems
  • Tanks
  • Pneumatic brakes
  • Pipe systems
  • Oxygen plugs in hospitals
  • Pressure and vacuum systems
  • Steam traps
  • Valves
  • Refrigerants
  • Partial electrical discharges causing damages on insullations
  • Insulation tests on doors and windows
  • Tightness tests
  • Any gas leaks in general

 

When gases are leaking through tubes and tanks an ultrasonic sound is produced which can be detected bySigma 530 even from several meter distance. Sigma 300 transforms these inaudible signals into a frequency which can be easily heard by using the supplied noise isolated headset. In unpressurized systems an ultrasonic tone generator can be used whose sound will leak through small openings.

The ability to discriminate between these sounds is accomplished by an electronic process called `heterodyning` that accurately converts the inaudible ultrasounds sensed by the instrument into the audible range where users can hear the audible signal through supplied noise isolated headset.

It is therefore simple to isolate these signals from any background plant noises and to detect their exact location.

The high frequency, short wave, directional characteristic of ultrasound enables users to accurately pinpoint the location of a leak or a particular sound in a machine.

The basic advantages of ultrasonic instruments are that they can easily locate leaks, provide advanced warning of impending mechanical failure and can be used in loud, noisy environments.

In unpressurized systems an ultrasonic tone generator can be used whose sound will leak through small openings. Sigma 530 integrates a laser pointer which helps to spot the leak from distance.

 

ultrasonic tone generator
ultrasonic tone generator

Optional Accessories

 

Ultrasonic Tone Generator

The optional ultrasonic tone generator can be a useful addition to the standard kit for detection of leaks from unpressurised pipes, vessels, enclosures, and tightness tests. This allows for testing of welds, joints and seals without the cost or contamination issues of actual gas testing. The ultrasonic tone generator can also be useful as a training tool for new users.