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Edward Lowton
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Using Ultrasound to Enhance Energy Efficiency
25 May 2022
One of today’s greatest challenges for industry is to improve energy efficiency. A major contributor to energy waste is leaks: both in compressed air systems and steam traps. Ultrasound instruments can detect these leaks, leading to potential energy savings.

Detecting Compressed Air Leaks
Contrary to what some might think, compressed air is not free. It is estimated that more than 50 percent of all compressed air systems have energy efficiency problems. Around 30% of all industrial compressed air is usually lost to leaks, resulting in huge losses. A leak that is just 1cm can cost a plant upwards of €15.000 per year if it goes undetected.
Ultrasound instruments detect the turbulent flow produced as the compressed air moves from the high-pressure side to the low-pressure side of a leak. Using the characteristics of Ultrasound, locating leaks is fast and easy.
Inspecting Steam Traps with Ultrasound
Steam leaks are also among the most wasteful, and therefore, expensive issues found in a plant. In fact, leaking steam traps can increase operating expenses by as much as 33%. For this reason, energy conservation programs should start with a steam trap survey. Even the smallest steam trap leak can cost up to €7000 per year.
Reporting Steam Trap Inspections
Findings from a steam trap survey can also be documented with UE Systems Ultratrend DMS software, or the SteamTrap Survey app for mobile devices. The report will outline the potential economic loses due to the faulty steam traps.
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