How much do your leaks cost?

The operation of valves and systems for the conveyance of fluids relies on efficient designs and correct installation for optimum running costs but the effects of wear, temperature gradients, corrosion, inadequate joint maintenance and many other factors conspire to challenge maintenance teams and increase operational costs. At every stage from manufacture through installation, commissioning and operation, time and energy can be saved by checking for integrity of joints, valves and systems and dealing with them before they cause larger issues such as process contamination, hazardous fluid leakage or loss of production.

The new CS 530 ultrasonic leak detector manufactured by CS-iTEC GmbH of Germany and available in the UK from Red Dragon Ltd, is designed to allow the user to identify leaks quickly either as part of an air system review, energy audit, ongoing testing or maintenance programme. Based on the heterodyne principle, the ultrasonic noise created by the tiniest leak is modulated into the human hearing range that can be fed to headphones and displayed on the instrument. The unit is easy to use and very sensitive allowing exact location of a leak using the inbuilt laser pointer.

The noise isolated headset allows the user to concentrate on the audible signals detected by the CS 530 without distraction from operating plant noise. When used as part of a regular maintenance or test procedure, an experienced user can identify potential early failure of valves through increased seat or stem leakage as well as seal or joint seepage and other forms of system leaks. For difficult to reach locations, the sensor can be detached using a flexible lead to allow testing where the screen would not otherwise be easy to read and the focus tip allows pinpoint accuracy locating the leak.

There is an optional self-contained ultrasonic tone generator that can be used with the CS 530 to test joint or weld integrity in pipe spools or vessels as well as valve seat leakage during installation and all without having to waste time and energy pressurising and depressurising the system. By identifying any leaks for remedial work before the pressure test, the CS 530 reduces the cost of testing and enables earlier completion of commissioning and handover.

Leaks from holes of 0.3mm diameter or below are not audible and may be present for some time before being detected. Even above this size, leaks could often be missed due to being lost in background noise and only become apparent through secondary indications suchas corrosion, condensation etc. Whether on a liquid or gas line, identification and correction of these leaks will increase plant efficiency and reduce running costs dramatically meaning the ROI period for this unit can be measured in only a few weeks.

As an alternative to traditional methods like soapy water, the CS 530 is faster to identify the source of leaks and as a handheld remote sensing unit, there are very few areas where it could not be employed.

Red Dragon Valves
Tel: 01443 772500
www.reddragonvalves.co.uk

Published: 19th September 2014