See sounds and save thanks to the reduction energy losses

How to reduce the costs of industrial production in spite of the rising energy prices? Enter the new Sonel KUS-100 acoustic camera, a device which will allow you to detect damage and achieve significant savings thanks to the reduction of energy losses.

Because of the continuous increase in energy prices, optimisation and reduction of losses in industrial processes are becoming ever more important aspects of production. Among the elements that are the most vulnerable to increases in electricity prices are compressed air installations. Any loose connection, damage to the piping or leak in the tank generates losses, which is in turn a source of increases to the company’s operating costs.

This may be avoided by way of early detection and quick countermeasure implementation on the part of maintenance departments. The high-class Sonel KUS-100 acoustic camera will be a perfect solution here.

Photo 1. The Sonel KUS-100 acoustic camera

Detect leaks with Sonel KUS-100

The device is equipped with a grid consisting of 64 microphones that detect sounds within the 2–100 kHz range, allowing for effective detection of leaks. The connection with a visible camera allows for observing the leak and recording of photos and videos in leak, which greatly facilitates the work of specialists inspecting the industrial lines. Owing to the high image resolution (800 x 480 pixels), it is possible to obtain high-quality evidence that is helps determine the location of the leak with precision.

While examining the installation, it is important to pay attention to unwanted reflections and change the angle at which the potential leak source is viewed. If a change in the viewing angle also causes movement of the point, it means that we a reflection of an acoustic wave is at play.

The leakage mode also includes a loss calculator which, after the unit cost data is entered for the installation, is able calculate the cost of each minute of a given substance leaking from the installation being examined. This tool is a very useful one, as it helps not only justify the costs of repairs and modernisation, but also estimate the potential economic benefits of the work undertaken.

Photo 2. Detection of leakage using the Sonel KUS-100 camera

Partial discharge detection

Another mode of Sonel KUS-100 camera is the partial discharge mode. Owing to it, the device is able to detect and analyse the acoustic waves that come from electric micro-discharges in the object subjected to testing.

The partial discharge mode activates an analysis module that helps the employee determine if a partial discharge is at play or if it’s just background noise. This mode also allows for distinguishing between different types of partial discharges: internal, surface and corona, which supports the assessment of what type of partial discharge is at play and helps draw accurate and appropriate conclusions from the analysis of the data obtained as a result of the measurement carried out.

Ergonomics and comfort of use

Sonel KUS-100 camera is equipped with a 4.3-inch touch screen, which permits the display of high-quality images and ensures precise touch operation. Owing to the practical buttons that permit easy access to each of the menu items, changing the frequency range, taking pictures, as well as starting and stopping video recording, the device may be operated with just one hand. This functionality eliminates the need to remove one’s gloves or use the other hand, presenting a significant advantage considering occupational health and safety (OHS) guidelines as well as ergonomics.

The camera comes with the free Sonel Analyzer Acoustic program, which used to analyse the obtained results and allows one to generate reports on the tests carried out.

Sonel KUS-100 acoustic camera is a perfect tool for HVAC specialists working in industrial plants with installations using compressed gases. It is also the perfect choice in the professional energy sector when it comes to working with high- and medium-voltage installations.

Author: Marcin Magierowski, Sonel S.A.