Ultrasonic Compressed Air Leak Detection

Since air leaks are almost impossible to see, other methods must be used to locate them. The best way to detect leaks is to use an ultrasonic acoustic air leak detector, which can recognise the high frequency hissing sounds associated with air leaks. These portable leak detectors consist of directional microphones, amplifiers, and audio filters, and usually have either visual indicators or earphones to detect leaks.

Why carry out compressed air leak detection? These leaks can be a significant source of wasted energy within your compressed air system, in some cases wasting unto 20-30% of a compressor's output. A typical plant that has not been well maintained will likely have a leak rate equal to 20% of total compressed air production capacity. On the other hand, proactive leak detection and repair can reduce leaks to less than 10% of compressor output.

As well as a source of wasted energy, compressed air leaks can also contribute to other losses. These could include a drop in system pressure, which can make production equipment function less efficiently, adversely affecting production, shorten the life of components within the air compressors as well as adding additional run hours to your equipment, leading to more frequent servicing costs.

A good air leak prevention program will include the following components: identification, photographing (and tagging), verification severity of the leak, and calculation the annual cost. Mobile Compressed Air can assist by providing an Ultrasonic Air Leak Prevention Program should you be looking at not only reducing the overall run costs associated with your compressed air system but improve the efficiency, reliability, stability and cost effectiveness of your compressed air system.