Guide to leak detection: Find the right method for your application

#1

LD6000: The combination detector for demanding applications

Technology: The LD6000 combines acoustic leak detection, trace gas detection and pipe tracing in one device. With its hydrogen sensor and high-precision microphones, it enables the detection, signal processing and display of leak noises and thus offers a versatile solution for industrial applications, utility companies and tradesmen.

Industrial users utilise the LD6000 for fast and precise leak detection in widely branched pipe networks. The hydrogen measurement method also enables particularly economical testing methods, such as leak testing of weld seams, valves, tanks, boilers, pressure lines and pump housings, in order to prevent actual leaks.

The LD-PULS pulse wave generator is another useful extension option for the LD6000. This pulse generator generates a pressure wave in pressurised water pipes, which propagates up to 600 metres in good conditions. The LD6000 and a connected ground microphone can detect this pressure wave acoustically and thus locate the route of the pipe.

Areas of application:

• Drinking water networks: Trace gas leak detection and acoustic pinpointing.
• Industrial testing: Leak tests on tanks, valves and weld seams.
• Domestic installations: Leak detection even on non-metallic pipes.
• Deep-lying pipes: In combination with the LD-PULS, even plastic pipes up to 2 metres deep can be located.

Advantages:

• Smart functions for fast pinpointing.
• Can be combined with pulse wave generator for additional range.
• Can be combined with hydrogen sensors for precise trace gas measurement.
• Flexible device with touchscreen and freely adjustable parameters.

Recommendation:

The LD6000 is ideal for complex networks and versatile tasks.

#2

LD6: The compact listening device

Technology: The LD6 is an electro-acoustic device for pinpoint leak detection. It measures structure-borne sound waves directly at pipes or fittings and filters high or low frequencies. The wireless Bluetooth transmission to the headphones makes the measurement process considerably easier. If there is a pipe burst on the measured pipe, a leakage noise will be audible at this point. The integrated level display also indicates the intensity of the recorded noise. The range is approx. 10 metres.

Areas of application:

• Entry-level and routine tasks: Checking pipes and fittings for leakage noises.
• Metallic and non-metallic pipes: Customisable frequency filters enable measurements in different material types.

Advantages:

• Compact design, wireless Bluetooth transmission.
• Simple operation and fast results.

Recommendation:

Recommended for smaller installations or spot checks.

#3

XRS9012: Hydrogen leak detector for challenging conditions

Technology: The XRS9012 relies on hydrogen detection for pinpoint leak detection, even under difficult conditions such as arable soil or even compacted floor coverings such as asphalt.

The system is a lightweight and handy measuring device that detects leaks quickly and cost-effectively. It is characterised by fast response times, high reliability and low cross-sensitivity to other gases. The leak detector is designed so that it can be worn close to the body and is supplied with a carrying strap that enables two-handed operation. This design feature increases safety during use.

Areas of application:

• Underground pipes: Ground probe enables precise localisation without digging.
• Industry and construction: Leak testing of tanks, flat roofs and hydraulic systems.
• Difficult substrates: Works on soft or overgrown surfaces and even compacted floor coverings in some areas.

Advantages:

• Fast response times and high sensitivity (up to 0.7 ppm H₂).
• Ergonomic design for mobile working.

Recommendation:

Ideal for outdoor use and complex terrain.

#4

UV-Torchlight 16F: UV-A hand lamp for tracer detection

Technology: UV light for the detection of fluorescent markers (tracers) enables non-destructive testing.

This lightweight and robust LED torch delivers maximum UV-A output as soon as it is switched on and is ideal for quick inspections or checks in hard-to-reach areas. The UV-Torchlight 16F's high spot light intensity, which can be adjusted using the focus function, enables strong fluorescence excitation, making even small traces of light visible even in daylight.

Areas of application:

• Engines and power units: Detection of leaks using fluorescent tracers in operating fluids.
• Buildings and pipe networks: leak detection in flat roofs, gullies and pipes.
• Material testing: Detection of surface defects in metals, plastics or ceramics.

Advantages:

• Infinitely variable focussable UV beam for different inspection tasks.
• Mobile and robust - ideal for quick inspections.

Recommendation:

Suitable for precise and visual leak detection in specialised applications.

#5

UV tracer LUMINAT

Technology: These fluorescent dyes offer intense glow and flexible application possibilities without leaving marks on most surfaces. Perfect for long-term investigations.

The UV tracer for pipe burst detection is formaldehyde-free and leaves no visible discolouration. It is characterised by a very intense glow under UV light (365 nm) and is available in various colours, including green, red, blue and purple. The tracer is water-dilutable and non-metabolisable, making it ideal for long-term studies.

Areas of application:

• Leak tests on water-bearing levels such as flat roofs.
• Inspection of gullies and downpipes.
• Non-destructive material testing (NDT) and leak detection.

Advantages:

• Colour-neutral application without visible residues.
• Particularly intense glow under UV excitation (365 nm).
• Available in five bright colours.

Recommendation:

Ideal for long-term examinations, as the tracer is chemically stable and does not metabolise, as well as for aesthetically sensitive applications.

#6

UV tracer URANIN

Technology: The classic fluorescent colourant impresses with its high visibility and versatility. Uranin Green is ideal for both direct visibility and under UV light, while Uranin Blue remains discreet and only glows intensely under UV light (365 nm).

Uranin Green is visible to the naked eye and is ideal for water markings and especially for capillary leaks, such as testing defective exterior basement waterproofing. In contrast, Uranin Blue is invisible in the visible spectrum, but shows a strong luminosity under UV light, making it ideal for mineral building materials. Both variants are 100% formaldehyde-free and are characterised by high capillary permeability. They are also chemically stable in the long term and toxicologically harmless in large dilutions.

Areas of application:

• Leak detection and leak testing.
• Water markings and long-term investigations.
• Flow path analyses in pipeline networks.

Advantages:

• Visibility with and without UV light (depending on variant).
• High capillary permeability for complex leaks.
• Environmentally friendly and long-term stable.

Recommendation:

Uranin Green is ideal for investigations where clear coloured markings may be visible, such as marking flow paths in watercourses or canals, as it is visible even without UV light.

Uranin Blue is particularly suitable for mineral building materials and large-area analyses with UV irradiation, as the fluorescence is extremely bright.

Special feature: Uranin Blue is practically invisible without UV light, so it leaves no disturbing residues.

#7

FS200 fog and flue gas simulator

Technology: The FS200 enables the generation of dense fog for precise leak detection and training scenarios. Thanks to intelligent power coupling, it produces extra-dense white smoke. The turbine and the fluid pump are infinitely adjustable, and the fluid consumption is very low at a maximum of 100 ml per minute.

The device is characterised by its robust, lightweight aluminium construction, which makes it compact and easy to transport.

Areas of application:

• Leak detection in flat roof constructions or pipework.
• Fire simulation and smoke extraction exercises.
• Inspection of smoke extraction systems and escape routes.
• Detection of faulty connections in pipe networks or undermining in dyke construction.

Advantages:

• Stepless regulation for individual requirements.
• Intelligent power coupling for uninterrupted use.
• Compact and easy to transport.

Recommendation:

Ideal for leak testing and leak detection in pipework networks or flat roof constructions. The powerful turbine and the fluid pump can be adapted to individual operating conditions.

#8

PD200 pulsed current measuring system

Technology: PD200 enables the pinpoint location of earthed leaks in non-conductive waterproofing systems such as bitumen or plastic membranes. It uses a pulse generator and receiver to locate leaks by means of a clearly recognisable signal (pointer display, light or sounder), whereby the signal strength can be adjusted.

The lightweight, robust device in a splash-proof aluminium transport case can be used in a variety of applications, for example on flat roofs, in swimming pools or landfill sites, and is easy to transport thanks to its compact design.

Areas of application:

• Precise localisation of earthed leaks.
• Leak tests on flat roofs, swimming ponds and tunnels.
• Inspection of waterproofing for LAU and HBV systems.

Advantages:

• Pinpoint leak detection with visual and acoustic aids.
• Easy to transport, even through narrow accesses.
• Non-destructive testing of numerous sealing systems.

Recommendation:

Ideal for leak testing in construction and industry. The PD200 is characterised by its ability to pinpoint grounded leaks in non-conductive sealing systems, making it particularly effective and versatile compared to fume simulators or liquid detection.

Which leak detection solution is right for you?

For versatility and precise leak detection in complex networks: The LD6000 is the most comprehensive solution.

For simple and quick leakage tests: The LD6 offers a cost-effective and handy alternative.

For difficult terrain or underground cables: The XRS9012 is unbeatable.

For non-destructive testing and visual detection: The UV-Torchlight 16F is ideal for tracer technologies. Use either Uranin Green for marking flow paths in bodies of water or sewers, as it is visible even without UV light, or Uranin Blue for mineral building materials and large-area inspections with UV irradiation.

The FS200 fog and flue gas simulator is easily customisable for leak testing and leak detection in pipe networks or flat roof structures.

The pulsed current generator is particularly suitable for locating earthed leaks in non-conductive sealing systems.

The selection of the right system depends on your application, the ambient conditions and the desired accuracy. With these options, you will find the optimum solution for your leak detection requirements.

If you would like to find out more about leak detection methods, please download further catalogue sheets here.

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