T O P I C S
Which Ultraprobe is Right For Me?
Ultraprobe Tip
Comments & Contributions
Training Schedule
T E C H – L I N K S
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This newsletter is dedicated to you, the reader with the goal of improving your ultrasonic inspection skills and enhancing your value to your company or clients. As such, we welcome your participation. If you have questions or seek advice about your inspection techniques or programs, or if you wish to share your experiences with others, please e-mail your contributions to us at info@uesystems.com.
Which Ultraprobe is Right For Me?
Whether people are looking to trade in, upgrade or select a new instrument, this is a question we are often asked. The best way to answer this is to consider what is the best tool for your particular situation.
To determine this think of how you're using or would like to use the instrument.
1. As a simple leak detector?
2. If leaks, what range; low level (10-3 std.cc/sec) to moderate or
moderate (10-1 std.cc/sec) to large leaks?
3. As part of a total predictive maintenance program?
4. Do you or will you need to collect data and analyze the data?
5. Do you want to manually record test results?
6. Will there be both structure borne (e.g. steam traps, bearings) and
air borne applications?
You will then need to determine the specific features that will help you perform your inspections.
1. Frequency Tuning
2. Data Logging
3. Sound Recording/sound analysis
4. Meter or Display panel showing decibel indications, frequency,
baseline data
5. Meter or Display panel showing analog needle or LED
intensity indications
6. Data management software
7. Spectral Analysis software
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Answers to these questions can help you determine whether you need an analog or data logging-digital instrument.
Once you decide the type of instrument, then you should think of the specific applications for which you will use the instrument. This can help you decide whether to choose a simple, entry-level type instrument or a more sophisticated instrument. It will also help you determine the type of modules and accessories you will need ( for accessories: http://www.uesystems.com/products/upacces.htm ).
For instances where leak detection will not require pressure or negative pressure (vacuum) environments (e.g. testing seals, gaskets, wind-noise/water leaks, hatches, etc.) a tone generator should be included. A magnetically mountable probe with cable might be required for repeatable mechanical inspections while for areas in which accessibility is an issue (enclosed cabinets, hard-to-reach test points) a remote sensor system called a RAS/RAM system can be used. This system includes a transducer that is either magnetically or mechanically attached to a test point. A cable with an adaptor at the end that fits into a digital Ultraprobe is then used to collect the data.
http://www.uesystems.com/products/Englishpdfs/ras-4b.pdf
When "mode conversion" is suspected which will occur during most structure borne inspections (mechanical inspection, leaks behind walls/underground, valves etc.) frequency tuning is recommended.
Below is a list of the various Ultraprobe instruments ranging from simple entry-level to the most sophisticated all-purpose system.
Analog
Ultraprobe 100 ( http://www.uesystems.com/products/up100.htm )
Ultraprobe 550 ( http://www.uesystems.com/products/500.htm ).
Ultraprobe 2000 ( http://www.uesystems.com/products/up2000.htm ).
Digital-data logging
Ultraprobe 9000 ( http://www.uesystems.com/products/9000.htm )
Ultraprobe 10,000 ( http://www.uesystems.com/products/10000.htm ).
Both digital instruments can be used with Ultratrend DMS data management software. For a free download: ( http://www.uesystems.com/products/proreg2.htm ).
If sound analysis is important, any of the Ultraprobe instruments can be used to record sounds out of the headphone jack. But if you want to have the convenience, consistency and accuracy of recording on-board, then you will select the Ultraprobe 10,000. In addition, the Ultraprobe 10,000 includes both Ultratrend DMS and UE Spectralyzer as part of the kit. While UE Spectralyzer can be used with the other Ultraprobe instruments, it must be purchased separately.
To download a 60 day trial of UE Spectralyzer: http://www.uesystems.com/products/software.htm
As you can see, before deciding on an Ultraprobe, you have to look at you're unique situation and applications.
Finally, if you have any confusion, there's always someone at UE that can help.
Ultraprobe Tip:
When confronted with loud competing ultrasound while using either the scanning or the contact module, try using a wipe rag with a rubber focusing probe. Place the rubber probe over the module. If you're using the contact module, make sure the tip of the probe extends beyond the end of the rubber probe. Hold the rag in your hand and cup your hand around the end of the probe as you scan. If possible (and safe) wrap the rag around the end of the probe and the surface of the test area to seal off the competing ultrasound.
Comments and Contributions:
Ultrasound World is turning out to be what one can truly term a "world-class" event. Our list of speakers and presenters is very impressive. Drew Troyer of Noria will be teaching Bearing Lubrication Best Practices, Roger Early, a maintenance specialist from Lubrizol, certified in both vibration and ultrasound will be teaching us about data management. Kevin Whitehead who has years of experience in energy conservation will be sharing his knowledge with us while he teaches Compressed Air Leak Detection. Chris Klosterman of Allied Services, will tell us how to implement a successful mechanical maintenance program. Steve Seeber of Mid Atlantic Infrared has been using ultrasound, infrared and vibration analysis in his contracted services for years and will instruct us on ultrasound spectral analysis. In addition to the short courses, we have a jam-packed three days of presentations from some of the most respected names in the Reliability field today.
Training Schedule:
We urge you to register early for our Level I classes. There have been times when we have had to turn people away, so if you see a course and a date you wish to use, register now.
Level I:
September 13-17: Toronto, Canada
October 4-8: Los Angeles, CA
November 1-5: Greenville, SC
November 15-19: Chester, UK
Come join the "Best of the Best" Ultrasound World Conference, October 24-27. The only conference dedicated to Airborne Ultrasound Technology. Register early to secure a great hotel rate.
To learn more: http://www.uesystems.com/ultrasound-world/UWC.html
More articles will be posted periodically. Please check back.
If you do not wish to continue to receive this newsletter, please let us know via email. Contact us at info@uesystems.com.
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