VPE-1000 Manual - Superior Signal Company Inc.
Contents
1. A 23 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Introduction and General Description Congratulations on your purchase of the AccuTrak model VPE 1000 ultrasonic inspection system You have invested in the most sophisticated and technologically advanced ultrasonic test instrument available The AccuTrak model VPE 1000 is an excellent tool for leak detection but it also does much more This instrument will accurately test steam traps and valves for internal leaks It will allow you to accurately record the ultrasonic sound signatures of bearings and other moving machinery to gauge the extent of wear and predict failure BEFORE it occurs We at Superior Signal have dedicated thousands of man hours developing the AccuTrak which is the first ultrasonic detector to offer digital controls and displays No other instrument even those costing thousands of dollars can produce such accurate readings and consistent results in repeatable tests The internal signal processing is performed by a patented process with additional patents pending This circuitry assures the reduction of noise a true translation of ultrasonic frequencies and the most precise and consistent readings available Use your new instrument to detect pressurized gas leaks of refrigerant steam air nitrogen or even vacuum The touch probe sensor allows you to detect the slightest flow abnormality in refrigerant lines expansion valves steam2. alphanumeric display A N D will read V000 Volume as with all numerical values has a range of 0 to 255 6 When testing bearings or machinery vibration record your sensitivity setting and use the reading on the A N D as a baseline for future readings Now you can compare the wear patterns to future tests and other similar equipment 7 For more specific information on using the touch probe refer to page 14 of this manual WARNING To insure a good contact and accurate readings the touch probe is sharp Be careful not to injure yourself or others Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Principle of Operation The principle of operation of the AccuTrak is based on the turbulent flow of fluids and gasses Turbulent flow has a high content of ultrasound This is sound which is above the human hearing range but can be heard with the AccuTrak and traced to its source Imagine air leaking from a tire Because this is such a large leak your ear can detect this sound however your ear hears only about 1 3 of the actual spectrum of sound which exists The sound of small leaks is mostly ultrasonic which your ear can not detect It is important to remember this example A piece of straight tubing connected to a gas supply and left free to exhaust into the atmosphere will not generate sound if the volume of gas through it is such that turbulence does not take place Yet for that same flow an opening as sma
3. apartment complex where all residences use the same cooling unit After testing a sample of compressors you soon will be able to easily determine what readings are normal or abnormal for a particular model 17 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Reminder To insure success be consistent If you test compressor mounts for example test the same place at the same sensitivity setting It is a good idea although not necessary to test units when they are new and keep your own records of what is acceptable for a new piece of equipment You may want to show your customers the measures you take to insure an accurate indication of the health of their system The customer should also be happy to know that this test will show the early warning signs of system failure See the previous page on charting your results WARNING Be careful when working around rotating machinery The headphones will dampen much of the sound which may cause you to forget that the machine is moving Use care common sense and be alert at all times Make certain the cord from the headphones is out of the way of any moving machine member Other Applications Use your imagination The AccuTrak is probably one of the most versatile test instruments you can own Keep in mind that ultrasonic sound is generally produced by Friction Arcing and Turbulence F A T Therefore any pressurized gas moving machine or electrical system can be te
4. gas leaks and vacuum leaks Remember leaks must be turbulent to detect ultrasonically 1 Insert the headset jack into the plug on the side of the instrument I and push the power button D 2 Depress the mode select button F until the alphanumeric display A N D reads AIR then press the A or W to activate the airborne sensor A You will begin to hear a translation of any ultrasonic sound present in the test area and the LED bargraph meter will display the strength of the corresponding signal The highest LED will hold its place for 5 seconds before resetting its position This will help guide you toward the leak where the sound is most intense The instrument always resets itself so that sensitivity is the active mode If the LED bargraph meter is at maximum reduce the sensitivity by simply pressing V until it reads 10 or less then continue The A N D will show the sensitivity as a digit between 0 and 255 prefixed by the letter A which identifies the airborne sensor being adjusted 3 To adjust the volume press the mode button once The A N D reads VOL Then use the A and W buttons to make the adjustment The alphanumeric display will read V000 Volume as with all numerical values has a range of 0 to 255 4 Listen for the leak A gas leak will sound like a harsh rushing noise or high intensity hiss This sound will increase as the instrument is drawn toward the leak p
5. new condition If defective contact us for repair and re calibration Maximum liability of Superior Signal Company LLC shall be limited to replacement of unsatisfactory product Recommendations and product information are believed to be accurate but the furnishing of it does not constitute the making of a good process warranty of Seller Superior Warrants that this product conforms to the Product Description contained in this literature Superior makes no other warranty whether expressed or implied including warranties of merchantability or of fitness for a particular purpose or application No statements or recommendations contained herein are to be construed as inducements to infringe any relevant patent now or hereafter in existence Superior neither assumes nor authorizes any representatives or other person to assume for it any obligation of liability other than such as expressly set forth herein Under no circumstances shall Superior be liable for incidental consequential or other damages from any alleged negligence breach of warranty strict liability or any other theory arising out of the use or handling of this product 22 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual INDEX Applications 11 14 roof leaks 19 Background Noise 12 Sensitivity battery 4 Setting the sensitivity 9 Installation amp Type 4 Serial 10 Bearings and Moving Machinery 15 SERVICE 21 Calibration 20 21 Sound Generato
6. standard methods for reducing background noise If you are still unsuccessful shut the system down Although the pressure may be somewhat reduced it should still be sufficient for leak testing 12 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Recording overall system noise Use the AccuTrak to record sound levels of compressor noise fan vibration fan belts motors and even noisy ducts The overall sound level of a system can be recorded and compared to previous and future readings If a system owner is complaining about increased noise coming from certain equipment this can be verified if previous AccuTrak readings were taken Although the AccuTrak will only record the ultrasonic range of a noisy system this part of the sound will increase in proportion to the sonic part the customer is hearing and complaining about Taking a baseline reading When taking a reading of overall noise level begin by reducing the sensitivity until the bargraph reads slightly less than 1 2 approximately 6 This will give you room on the display for future readings IMPORTANT Record the sensitivity and volume setting the numeric level reading on the display E and the position from which the reading was taken This will be your baseline for future tests 13 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Applications Overview 2 Touch probe Applications Internal sounds bearings valves st
7. the VPE 1000 it can also be used to detect turbulent internal flow in situations such as leaks in valves steam traps and pump cavitation WARNING Ultrasonic detectors will not indicate a leak if there is no turbulent flow producing sound when you check it If you suspect a toxic gas natural gas or other combustible gas leak and do not detect it with the AccuTrak do not assume that it does not exist as it may not be turbulent Use another method as verification that there is no leaking gas present Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Operation To use the system plug the headphones into the jack on the right side of the instrument 1 Depress the on off button D once to turn the unit on depress it again to turn the unit off Depending on whether you are in contact or airborne mode you will immediately begin to hear the translated ultrasonic signal from either the airborne sensor A or the touch probe sensor B Using the modes The AccuTrak VPE 1000 uses a simple method of select and adjust Press the Mode button to select the parameter you wish to change then use the Up and Down arrows G amp H to make the adjustment The AccuTrak VPE 1000 offers modes in the following order AIR OPER Airborne Operate VPE 1000 Sensor No Selection Made M O D E M E N U Sensitivity To Select press the Volume Up or Down Buttons 3 Any Sensor AT Menu AV PROB Probe
8. traps and valves Mechanical wear in bearings and other moving machinery can be quickly identified Overall system noise can be recorded and compared to previous readings for an accurate record of increasing noise patterns This booklet contains information necessary to use and interpret sounds with your AccuTrak To eliminate any future frustration we recommend you take a few minutes to read this manual and understand the operation of your new instrument Again congratulations We are sure you will be pleased with your choice Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Physical Description The following describes the various controls adjustments and features of the VPE 1000 A Airborne sensor Detects external ultrasonic sound which travels through air vibration Examples pressurized gas leaks vacuum leaks external System noise The sensor horn accepts various waveguides and attachments B Touch probe sensor Detects internal system sounds Examples internal valve leaks bearing wear faulty steam traps C Intensity display meter Shows relative strength of detected signal in a bargraph format D Power button Turns the instrument on or off E Alphanumeric Display A N D Level Mode Indicator Displays active mode current mode setting and numeric intensity reading Available mode options include Air Probe Display Volume Sensitivity This display also indicates when battery power is
9. Sensor Operate s Display OFF CONT Display AS PEAK Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Setting the Sensitivity The AccuTrak VPE 1000 always defaults back to sensitivity as the active mode This means that after any other adjustment has been made it will hold the setting in memory and reset itself so that A and W adjust sensitivity Pressing the A and W arrows will adjust the sensitivity while in either the Airborne or Touch probe mode The prefix on the A N D indicates the active mode being changed For example the display will read A000 to show that you are adjusting the airborne sensors sensitivity or P000 to indicate that you are adjusting the sensitivity of the touch probe sensor Setting the Volume While using either the Airborne or Touch probe mode pressing the MODE button once will put the AccuTrak in the Volume Adjust Mode The alphanumeric display will read Vol as long as the MODE button is pressed When released it will show V000 indicating the current volume setting Use the A and Y buttons to make the adjustment You will hear the volume change as the display changes from V000 to V255 the V prefix indicates that volume is the current mode being adjusted Note Volume and sensitivity are not the same Volume adjusts the loudness of the signal in the headset Sensitivity adjusts the meters reaction to the
10. Superior Signal Acculrak Model VPE 1000 USER S MANUAL Superior Signal Company LLC 2009 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Contents INTRODUCTION AND GENERAL DESCRIPTION 222202022 0220 2000200220000000022000000002200000000220000000022000000000002 2 PHYSICAL DESGRIPTION sissescssescesosssnssseovesensssoasessestesasussnasensesvesasssteesetsessecedsstvessssestesasseevstesdectececsessntcsses 3 BATTERY INSTALLATION sisvidsscssessiestsisseteccsseostonsessnesvsedssdseccdesssconsssescssatccvesssendscstsovsenseasdssssasessseessenssacs 4 GETTING STARTED aS 5 LEAK DETECTION vos 3e en Ge tenc id ipee ei a t ede EE Pe oe d 5 TOUGH PROBE APPLICATIONS eese eoe ether e orta rte epe peores teste el pee xe Pod etde et eee ip eee une Pie PO ee ve epe eee ne ters 6 PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION ee 7 OPERA TION oer 8 USING THEMODES ette NER EET RR RS ee cobs waa IN IB Ee ES 8 Setting the Sensitivity mE 9 Setting the Volumes iet EE RE EE AT ERR Aa O EO RERO REP E A AAIE 9 Selecting the Sensors dae ede aree it ORE ERUSR o saduusoasedubs ee Eee H de ep etes eats 10 Adjustins the Display ssc ais ui ou d REUS Rau d pee EUER TU dep GEN GG EG UE deeds 10 Hidden MODE Options e em eae T epe e bE AT ie A ede oR RA c eee Bs 10 APPLICATIONS OVERVIEW sissstesscocssssassncessssocsnsssvansovansessncesscesossssensedsscecnssenshcsssessesessescedeascedessssecsorsates 11 1 AIRBORNE APPLICATIONS EXTERNAL SOUNDS ccsssssseee
11. a rhythmical mechanical pattern Fans should not produce any wind noise detectable by the AccuTrak although the fan motor may produce a buzz or Aum Example Mechanical vibrations sound very different from leak sounds Shake a set of keys then take a short quick breath through your nose Listening to both sounds through the AccuTrak is a good example of how the direct translation process of the AccuTrak helps you to distinguish the difference between the two signals Practice listening to different components of your system this will help you to identify the sound of a leak from other normal operational sounds Methods of reducing background noise interference Placing the flexible wave guide onto the airborne sensor will make the reception of the AccuTrak more directional This helps shield the sensor from competing sounds entering from other directions Cupping your hand around the end of the wave guide will also help to reduce the background noise Reducing the sensitivity will suppress the effect background noise has on the display and also in the headset This will help make the leak sound more identifiable The most interfering background sounds come from areas of high turbulence within a pipe This can be where high velocity flow changes direction or is restricted such as within a partially closed valve These situations will produce a high frequency hiss which is very similar to the sound of the leak Use the
12. e and repair refrigerant leaks and AccuTrak is one of the most effective ways to find leaks fast e Contrary to some opinion air is not free When using air in pneumatic systems a leak can become quite costly AccuTrak is one of the most effective ways to locate leaks in air systems Eliminating air leaks can save the life of a compressor and significantly reduce power costs 20 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Care and Service The AccuTrak VPE 1000 is constructed of durable impact resistant ABS however it is also a precision electronic test instrument which should be handled with care and respect We suggest you follow these simple instructions to insure many years of reliable performance If you find yourself working in damp areas or the instrument is exposed to oils or chemical agents that corrode make sure that you wipe it clean with a soft cloth and window cleaner Be very gentle around the front of the instrument so that the sensor is not damaged Periodically use an automotive polish on the case to bring back its original luster Keep both sensor openings free of dirt oils moisture or any other foreign substances Use the yellow waveguide to protect the airborne sensor when using the unit in harsh environments When performing touch probe applications do not use excessive pressure on the item being tested Bent probes or cracked sensor housings are considered abuse and will not be cov
13. eam traps Ultrasound not only travels through air but solid materials as well The touch probe sensor B is used to detect abnormal system sounds which are internally generated Such sounds include abnormal flow in piping valves and steam traps Other applications include the detection of friction or increased wear in bearings motors and gears Warning 7o insure a good contact and accurate readings the touch probe is sharp Be careful not to injure yourself or others Steam Traps Background A steam trap is a device which works much like an automatic faucet opening only at times when condensed steam water has accumulated at the trap The steam trap then will open to purge the condensate while retaining the steam for maximum efficiency Problems arise when a malfunctioning steam trap fails in either the open or closed position When this happens it can often go undetected Left uncorrected in the closed position faulty steam traps will cause problems such as water hammer If failed in the open position the trap will constantly release live steam drastically reducing system efficiency These are problems that can be quite costly Note t is now common place for large manufacturing and processing plants to spend tens of thousands of dollars on steam system conservation programs designed to locate and repair failing steam traps Ultrasonic detectors play an important role in these programs The Test To test steam traps yo
14. ered under warranty Keep the instrument stored in its protective carrying case when not in use Your AccuTrak comes with a high quality industrial grade 9volt battery However all batteries have the possibility of leaks Remove the battery if the unit is not to be used for longer periods of time Calibration Superior Signal instruments are designed in a way to minimize the need for regular calibrations They are constructed with components of very tight tolerances and do not age rapidly If there is a need to know for sure that the instrument is consistent with manufacturer specifications or if you suspect a problem we will perform the calibration at a fixed cost Call the factory for current calibration costs If you need service please contact Superior Signal Company LLC by any of the following methods Phone 732 251 0800 Fax 732 251 9442 E Mail info SuperiorSignal com 21 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Warranty The AccuTrak VPE 1000 is warranted for 1 year to be free of manufacturing defects adversely affecting performance and unconditionally for 30 days Should an instrument fail within the 1 year warranty period the unit will be repaired or replaced provided in the opinion of the factory the instrument has not been tampered with or abused If during the first 30 days you are unsatisfied for any reason the unit may be returned for full credit providing it is returned in like
15. essececesseeeeceeceeceesaeeecsesaececseeeeeesseeeessesueeeeneseeenees 11 WT CREE 11 Methods of reducing background noise interference eee nenne 12 Recording overall system noise esae P rere i a ar eue Meet rat gib rk oasia 13 2 TOUCH PROBE APPLICATIONS INTERNAL SOUNDS BEARINGS VALVES STEAM TRAPS cccceceesseeeeeeees 14 Steam Traps ist e d ete e RH van caus P M E ee duta etse REC LE use ese dd 14 Valvesscxnnutenusenie desde adeat ee b LE E etd I M b Ge 15 Bearings and Moving Machinery sees ener trennen eene enr enne enne ESES 15 Charting your results iii eR ee EDGE t Ete ORE ORE eerte i A 17 VIDFOILONS Sr Ret vti nece RS air ah ne deett tete E ud Med 17 OTHER APPLICATIONS ero m s 18 BEECTRICAEARCING 2 5 Sterne Re eT em tA ee Ae Ret demi ite ui 18 HAN BELIS SS ais set ets images Sc See eee 18 TU CT WORK 5 5253550 deien tic ie etern 19 PNEUMATICS AND HYDRAULIGS 7 hr scorre eo Aser Te e ase E aieo e eO Mose uae euis 19 OPTIONAL SOUND GENERATOR oivsscsssssscsnsscvsssosnsseesssessnsessessecsssensesnaseutacessnsessessessesessesenseetnnssonssesnases 19 IDEAS ON HOW TO PROFIT FROM ACCUTRAK e eee ee ee ee seen sese testen sete seta sete etta sete setas 20 CARE AND SERVICE o 21 CALIBRATION M oerte i Rac eh NE Ago tct E cR ta Cutt ae 21 WARRANTY tatto e ato e ut toon aca niv nati 22 INDEX enr
16. etect leaks in enclosures which are not under pressure This item can be placed inside a vessel such as a walk in freezer or refrigerated trailer The sound generator emits a powerful 115db ultrasonic tone which will follow the empty passage a gas or liquid would travel to produce a leak The tone can then be identified at the point of exit by using the AccuTrak detector The sound generator has a selectable output Constant tone can be used in most situations while Burst Tone is more easily identified in loud industrial environments Other sound generator applications include locating roof and window leaks in buildings and air water leaks in automobiles windshields sunroofs doors etc 19 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual How to profit from AccuTrak Whether you re a contractor service company or maintaining your own company s facility there are ways to profit from spending only a few minutes using AccuTrak AccuTrak is a proactive approach to maintenance and adds significant value to the services you offer In facilities maintenance the problems you identify and correct can eliminate costly downtime thus contributing to bottom line profits Tag the most vital equipment and log the ultrasonic readings you take for future comparison Create a report card to track system health As a service company it is worthwhile to show this information to your customers Letting them know what is goin
17. g on will help build your reputation credibility and make you more profits in the process Maintenance agreements are much easier to sell when they include AccuTrak testing More scheduled repairs and less emergency repairs keeps your business under control as well as your clients temper Here are a few ideas e A down motor in a restaurant exhaust fan will temporarily put them out of business Using AccuTrak identifies this wear and allows you to schedule the repair BEFORE this happens e A significant increase in compressor noise indicates looseness wear or other serious problems AccuTrak helps prevent vibration caused leaks e Steam is costly to produce Keeping the steam in the system by monitoring steam traps and valves has proven to have saved thousands of dollars in energy costs even 100 s of thousands in large industrial plants Water hammer is caused by steam traps stuck in the closed position This annoying and potentially dangerous condition can be avoided by periodic tests with AccuTrak Estimate the costs of the losses you identify and report them to management or system owners e Monitoring control valves check valves expansion valves etc ensures the system is running smoothly If you suspect an internal valve leak use AccuTrak to confirm it rather than disassembling the valve for visual inspection e With the rising costs of refrigerants and the risk of EPA violations it is more important than ever to locat
18. incoming signal This capability allows you to Audio Zoom into the signal that you hear If the incoming signal is too loud reduce the sensitivity and Zoom in with the volume to hear subtle changes in the sound Similarly if the signal is too weak increase the sensitivity and Zoom out with the volume to reduce the noise in your ears and listen carefully for differences Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Selecting the Sensor Press the MODE button three times The alphanumeric display will read Air The instrument will wait 3 seconds after releasing the MODE button for you to press the A or W button which locks in the sensor selection If you press the MODE button again the alphanumeric display will read Prob and wait 3 seconds for you to press the A or W button to lock in Probe as your sensor selection Adjusting the Display The alphanumeric display offers three viewing options Continuous Peak and Off Press the MODE button twice The display will read Disp Then by pressing the A or W buttons it will scroll through the display options which are as follows Cont Continuous the A N D will show the level of the signal in real time Peak Peak Hold the A N D will hold the highest reading for 5 seconds Off Turns the alphanumeric display off with the exception of a Since this display is not necessary for most airborne applications turn
19. ing it off can save a substantial amount of battery NOTE The adjustments you have just made are now in memory and will remain there until they are changed or if the battery is removed Hidden MODE Options There are other features that the MODE button can be used for Checking the serial Z While the unit is powered OFF hold down the MODE button Now turn the unit on while holding down the MODE button The VPE 1000 will show its serial number in the alphanumeric display 10 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Applications Overview 1 Airborne Applications External sounds The Airborne sensor A is used to detect sound waves which travel to the AccuTrak through the air The most common airborne application is for leak detection Leaks When searching for leaks with the AccuTrak remember you are listening for the turbulent flow of the gas as it exits the leak orifice refer back to Principles of Operation for a more detailed explanation The AccuTrak VPE 1000 is capable of hearing leaks from over fifty feet away but it is best to hold the instrument as close to the test area as safely possible Stand a few feet from the suspected leak area and reduce the sensitivity until only the first one or two lights are lit on the LED bargraph meter Check around fittings flanges and all other suspected areas If at anytime the display is at maximum due to background noi
20. intensity meter reads less than half This gives you room on the display for future readings As the bearing wears the ultrasonic sound intensity will increase Future readings can indicate the extent of this wear When testing bearings or other moving machinery it is important to 1 Record your volume and sensitivity settings 2 Record the level on the alphanumeric display 3 Record or mark the test point where the level was taken By recording these things you have the most accurate and repeatable test possible Although the sound of a moving machine member may fluctuate the VPE 1000 s built in peak hold feature will allow you to assign a number to the sound level emanating from the item being tested Use this number to compare to future tests 16 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Charting your results Ultrasound will be produced differently for all types of systems It may be strong on one side of a bearing shaft and weak on the other depending upon the unique wear patterns Therefore it is very important to mark the test point so that future readings can be taken from the exact same position Doing the same test with the sensitivity set differently can completely change the results therefore it is extremely important to keep track of the instruments settings for future tests to be valid A chart is provided in the back of this manual to help you keep track of your results This can help you easi
21. ll as 0 005 of an inch could generate enough sound to be heard several feet away For a leak to happen there must be an opening in the system that carries a gas or fluid Normally these openings are not clean smooth holes but passages through cracks with many jagged edges and internal chambers Fluid or gas escaping through an orifice like this is forced into turbulence random circular like motions Inside a tube where a gas may be flowing the flow is normally laminar which means that a given layer of gas does not mix with layers above it or below it This condition happens in a straight long tube when the velocity of the fluid is not high A gas leaking out of a straight and long tube will not generate as much sound as if it were leaking out of a small crack because the flow is not turbulent The intensity of sound generated at a leak is a very complex function of the viscosity the temperature the speed the fluid is moving the Reynolds number the pressure differential across the leak and the physical dimensions and characteristics of the orifice This is why it is possible for a smaller leak to generate more sound than a larger one What this all means The AccuTrak detects ultrasound NOT refrigerant or the presence of a specific gas It is NOT a sniffer Because of this fact the AccuTrak can function in areas where heavy wind or a concentration of fumes renders other detectors useless Because of the unique touch probe system in
22. low F Mode Select Button Scrolls through mode options to be adjusted and or selected G UP Adjustment A Increases setting or scrolls through options in a particular mode H Down Adjustment W Decreases setting or scrolls through options in a particular mode Headphone Jack Insert Headphone connector Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Battery installation There is a sliding battery door located on the back of the VPE 1000 Turn the unit over so that the controls are facing the floor and the sensor is facing away from your body At the opposite end from the sensors the end closest to you there is a sliding panel Apply minimal pressure to the center of the panel and slide it towards you exposing the battery compartment Install a new 9 volt battery noting the and positions which are indicated on the inner label Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Getting Started A condensed guide for those who hate to read manuals OK here it is A quick overview of the AccuTrak VPE 1000 written for those who will probably read nothing else This will give you a basic understanding of the unit s operation and function however we STRONGLY recommend that you read the complete manual Or at the very least continue to read the following section concerning the principles of operation Leak Detection Use the airborne sensor for detecting pressurized
23. ly see the changes or inconsistencies which indicate problems The chart also acts as a report card and helps you give a much more accurate diagnosis of system health Keep this information in your files or tagged on the equipment itself When returning to the same equipment perhaps several months or even years later you have the information you need to make a decision as to the degree of wear in a particular piece of equipment It is worth while to show this information to your customers Letting them know what is going on will help build your reputation credibility and make you more profits in the process Maintenance agreements are much easier to sell when they include AccuTrak testing More scheduled repairs and less emergency repairs keeps your business under control as well as your clients temper Vibration Vibration misalignment or moving machinery which is not properly balanced can be deadly to a system These things can cause leaks and excessive wear bringing the life of any system to an early demise All these problems have a common warning signal increased ultrasonic energy This ultrasonic energy is generated from the friction associated with these problems and can be detected with the AccuTrak With experience you will know what readings are good and which are bad for the most common types of equipment you work on Example If you are responsible for maintaining the A C units in a large residential area such as an
24. ny firms have spent tens of thousands of dollars on vibration analysis instrumentation to help detect these hidden problems Because of its high frequency capabilities many other companies use ultrasonic detection as an alternative or even a complement to this equipment While vibration analyzers work in the lower Hertz frequency range the AccuTrak detects sound in the kilo hertz range which is much higher When a bearing begins to fail changes occur in the ultrasonic kilohertz range before they can be detected with traditional vibration monitoring equipment Bearings The First Test The first test is very important This is the reading that all future tests will be based on With some experience you will be able to compare two similar bearings and identify the sound of a good bearing from a worn one by just using your ear When several months pass between tests however it is very important to log your results To take a reading on a mechanical system such as a bearing or gear box you must use the touch probe attachment Touch the end of the probe to the outer housing of the gear box or bearing making a good contact Do not press very hard at any given point when collecting data Use just enough force to keep the tip of the probe in place and try to be consistent with the amount of pressure you use It is often effective to use only the weight of the AccuTrak itself to hold the tip in place Adjust the sensitivity so that the
25. oint and will clearly disappear as the sensor is turned away 5 For more detailed information on specific applications refer to page 11 of this manual Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Touch probe applications Use the touch probe to detect internally generated ultrasound These applications include steam traps valves and bearings 1 Insert the metal touch probe into its port B on the nose of the VPE 1000 The probe should be snug so it can not rattle however do not over tighten Depress the mode select button F until the display reads Prob then press the A or W to activate the touch probe sensor 2 Making a firm contact touch the tip of the probe to the item being tested Apply just enough pressure to make a good contact You will hear a clear translation of the internally generated ultrasonic sound 3 Listen for fluid leaks in valves continuous flow or non cycling in steam traps and knocking or scraping in bearings 4 The VPE 1000 always defaults back to Sensitivity as the active mode therefore if your readings are off the scale simply press the W to reduce the reading to within the range of the instrument The A N D will display the active sensor and current sensitivity setting before it begins to make the adjustments 5 To adjust the volume press the mode button once The A N D reads VOL Then use the A and W buttons to make the adjustment The
26. r 19 combustible gas leak 7 Steam Traps 14 controls 3 system noise Decription recording 13 Physical 3 Touch probe applications 14 Description 2 method condensed 5 General 2 Touch probe applications Ductwork 19 Quick Overview 6 Electrical Arcing 18 toxic gas 7 Fan Belts 18 turbulent flow 7 features 3 Valves 15 flexible waveguide 11 Vibration 17 Leak Detection 5 WARNING method outline 5 electrical 18 leaks 11 moving machinery 18 Quick Overview 5 Touch probe 6 7 14 modes Warranty 22 selection 8 waveguide 11 natural gas 7 window leaks 19 Operation 8 windshield leaks 19 Pneumatics and Hydraulics 19 23 AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Superior Signal Company LLC G ui91s S eal 901SI10S3H 1S31 ZWEM UOI ne Spar uib AMANISU9S oum oA 9polA SSU ZuM VOL Spano UU AjAnisuag eum oA 9polq SSUNIAS UONNE AMANISUSS oum oA spol ssumos Wa shs Buipuai oiuoseJf yearin322y
27. rly When in the closed position are they truly closed Is the TXV clogged or iced Restrictions or leaks in a valve can cause serious problems and inefficiency Any fluid or gas passing through a poorly seated valve will generate ultrasound and clearly be heard using the AccuTral This test method is similar to that of steam traps Use the touch probe to test around the perimeter of the valve housing The sound will be loudest at the point of the leak the area where the gate ball needle etc seats into place to stop the fluid or gas flow Use the sensitivity adjustment to eliminate any extraneous pipe noise and you will be able to hear only the internal flow of the valve By using the readings on the display and your ear you can actually determine which side of the valve is leaking Bearings and Moving Machinery The most common mechanical failure is a broken or seized bearing However this type of failure normally does not happen instantly When the bearing begins to fail its sound will change This change occurs in the ultrasonic range and can be detected with the AccuTrak by touching the bearing housing with the touch probe and listening for abnormal sounds Periodic preventive maintenance tests can prevent major disasters in both the machinery and down time 15 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Note Large industrial processing plants check critical moving machinery bearings on a routine basis Ma
28. se in the area reduce the sensitivity and volume if necessary and continue searching The sound in the headset and the bar graph meter will increase as the unit is drawn closer to the leak Using the yellow flexible waveguide will help reduce background noise interference and also make the unit s sensitivity more directional allowing you to pinpoint the precise location of the leak In the case of larger leaks which may over concentrate sniffer type leak detectors Try removing the waveguide and increasing the sensitivity Then sweep the instrument over the entire unit Leaks may be where you least suspect them and the AccuTrak may very likely detect something even from a greater distance 11 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Too Much Background Noise The AccuTrak VPE 1000 detects a narrow band of ultrasonic sound therefore although there may appear to be overwhelming background noise the sound may not be within the detection range of the AccuTrak Notice that you can yell directly into the sensor and your voice will not be translated in the headset The AccuTrak s patented circuitry is capable of reproducing the sound signature of the signal it detects This means that the sound you hear is closely related to the actual sound It is an actual translation not an electronically synthesized tone or beep Leaks sound like a hiss or rushing sound while compressors chatter
29. sted Electrical Arcing A jump in electrical current or Arc will make a popping frying or buzzing noise in the ultrasonic range The AccuTrak can be used to locate electrical failures which are causing a decline in power quality Use to test circuit breakers buss bars relays corrosion in contacts or poor insulation Warning Be careful and use common sense around electrical currents Keep in mind the nose of the AccuTrak is metal use the plastic waveguide and keep at a safe distance Fan Belts You may be familiar with the sound of a loose fan belt in a car Early warning of such wear is indicated by a similar sound in the ultrasonic range 18 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Ductwork Leaking ducts can be a significant source of energy loss The AccuTrak can be used to identify the sound of air leaking from a pressurized duct system Pneumatics and Hydraulics Leaks are quite common in pneumatic systems controls hoses tools fittings Listen for the rushing sound of the leak Large hydraulic leaks are obviously easy to see but small ones can often be difficult The AccuTrak will allow you to hear these leaks with ease Internal leaks in hydraulic cylinders can be detected using the touch probe When testing for external hydraulic leaks use the yellow waveguide to protect any fluid from entering the sensor Optional Sound Generator The ultrasonic sound generator is used to d
30. u will use the touch probe sensor B Press the MODE button F until the display reads Prob then press A or W to activate the touch probe sensor 14 Superior Signal Company LLC AccuTrak VPE 1000 User s Manual Making a firm contact touch the end of the probe to the steam trap being tested Apply just enough pressure to make a good contact but do not push too hard You will hear a clear translation of the internally generated ultrasonic sound If the trap sounds appear to be masked by other system sounds reduce the sensitivity and touch just upstream and downstream from the trap to verify that what you hear is only the steam trap being tested A properly functioning steam trap will have a distinct on and off flow cycle which is easy to interpret with the AccuTrak A strong rushing sound indicates that the trap is purging You may want to listen to the sound of a good trap before trying to make important decisions on the condition of others Knowing what a healthy trap sounds like will be a great advantage There are many different types of steam traps A sputtering sound may be quite normal for one type and not another It would be helpful to know how a particular trap functions when making a decision as to its condition Valves The AccuTrak can be used to test a thermostatic expansion valve TXV check valve ball needle gate or any type of valve which may be leaking internally Are valves functioning prope
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