AccuTrak
VPE-2000
15
The Test:
To test steam traps you will use the touchprobe sensor (B.). Press the “MODE”
button (F.) until the display reads the desired probe mode, then press
“
” and
“
”
to activate the touchprobe sensor.
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.
Valves
The AccuTrak can be used to test a thermostatic expansion valve (TXV), check
valve, ball, needle, gate… any type of valve which may be leaking internally.
Are valves functioning properly? 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 from the upstream
side (high pressure) to the downstream side (low pressure) through a poorly
seated valve will generate ultrasound, and clearly be heard using the AccuTrak.
This test method is very similar to that of steam traps. Use the touchprobe 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 flow. Use the sensitivity or frequency 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, the sound that it makes changes. These changes occur in the ultrasonic
range and can be detected with the AccuTrak by touching the bearing housing
with the touchprobe and listening for abnormal sounds. Periodic preventive
maintenance tests can prevent major disasters in both the machinery and down
time.
