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The Leader in Leak Detection
For Over 60 Years!
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Superior® Smoke Generators are used for literally hundreds of applications. Firefighter training, sewer inflow leak detection, special effects, HVAC testing, truck and trailer leak detection, law enforcement, military, IED simulation, and a variety of other air flow visualization and leak detection applications.
By detecting the ultrasonic sound created by turbulence and friction in industrial equipment, these extraordinary instruments pinpoint compressed air leaks, vacuum leaks, refrigerant leaks, worn bearings, and internal leaks through valves and steam traps.
How much output (cfm) do I need from my Sewer Smoke Blower?
Most engineering specifications for smoke testing identify the use of a blower able to provide 1750 cfm (cubic feet of air per minute), however in today’s world it seems to be the mindset that bigger is better. New smoke blowers on the market can deliver well over 4000 cfm, but is this really needed? Once the manhole area is filled, the smoke only needs to travel sections of generally 8 or 10-inch pipe. Moving the air very quickly is useless if the blower does not have the static pressure to push that air/smoke through the lines. If you’ve used high cfm blowers and found that smoke frequently backs up to the surface, this may be your problem. Keep in mind that high cfm blowers have a higher air to smoke ratio which reduces the density and consequently the visibility of the test smoke. Therefore, while a high cfm blower (with appropriate static pressure) may have more “reach,” it does not necessarily provide a better smoke test. In general we have found approximately 1800 cfm to be ideal for most mainline sewer tests. There are situations however where a higher output is beneficial. Systems with limited manhole access that necessitate smoke testing long stretches of line at a time and/or systems using very large diameter pipe may benefit from a higher cfm blower.
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.
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 AccuTrak® instruments. With experience, you will know what readings are good, and which are bad for the most common types of equipment you work on.
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.
Electric Arc and Corona
A jump in electrical current or Arc, will make a popping, frying, or buzzing noise in the ultrasonic range. AccuTrak® instruments 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.
For over 60 years, Superior Signal Company has provided industry with quality products at attractive prices. Our American made, Superior® Smoke Generators and AccuTrak® Ultrasonic Leak Detectors are the professionals choice for literally hundreds of applications. Please visit one of our websites above to learn more about how our innovative products can help you.