Course Introduction
The Electronic Leak Location Testing training is a comprehensive program aimed at building participants’ expertise in modern leak-detection techniques. Through a blend of theoretical foundations and hands-on practice, the course empowers trainees to detect, locate, analyze, and report leaks in various systems — including compressed-air networks, gas pipelines, water plumbing, and industrial/vacuum systems. The program emphasizes safe, non-destructive techniques (ultrasonic, acoustic, tracer-gas, thermal imaging, etc.), correct use and calibration of detection instruments, sound survey methodology, data interpretation, and effective remediation planning. Upon completion, participants will be capable of conducting professional leak surveys, producing accurate diagnostic reports, and recommending appropriate corrective actions to ensure system integrity, safety, and efficiency.
Course Outline :
Module 1: Fundamentals of Leak Detection
- Definition of “leak” vs normal flow or noise.
- Basic physical principles: pressure, flow dynamics, gas/fluid properties, how leaks occur and evolve
- Common leak scenarios: pressurized systems, vacuum systems, pipelines (water, gas), compressed-air systems, steam/condensate systems.
- Risks and consequences of undetected leaks (safety hazards, energy or fluid loss, environmental impact).
Module 2: Technologies & Methods for Leak Detection
- Acoustic and ultrasonic detection techniques: principles of sound propagation, frequency spectrum, amplitude analysis, use of handheld and stationary acoustic/ultrasonic detectors.
- Tracer-gas methods (e.g., helium, hydrogen) including concept, application contexts, sensitivity level, limitations.
- Thermal imaging and infrared detection for moisture or gas leak detection in building systems and pipelines.
- Other advanced techniques (e.g., fiber-optic sensing, mass-spectrometry based leak detection, laser/optical methods) — overview of when and why to use them.
Module 3: Instruments, Calibration & Equipment Handling
- Overview of detection instruments: ultrasonic detectors, acoustic correlators, tracer-gas analyzers, thermal cameras, pressure/ vacuum gauges, data-logging tools.
- Instrument setup, calibration, sensitivity adjustment, and configuration for accurate leak detection.
- Handling precautions, safety considerations, and best practices when working with pressurized or hazardous systems.
Module 4: Survey Planning & Inspection Methodology
- Pre-survey planning: defining scope, risk assessment, mapping inspection routes, understanding system layout (pipes, valves, joints, trap points).
- On-site leak detection workflow: scanning, pinpointing, distinguishing leak signals from background noise / environmental interference, documenting findings.
- Special cases and challenging scenarios: low-pressure leaks, buried lines, steam traps, complex piping networks, concealed plumbing.
Module 5: Data Analysis, Leak Quantification & Reporting
- Interpreting detection data: acoustic/ultrasonic signals, gas concentration readings, thermal anomalies, pressure/flow data.
- Estimating leak parameters: leak rate, flow loss, potential fluid/gas loss, energy loss (in compressed-air or gas systems), risk evaluation.
- Preparing professional inspection reports: documenting leak sources, conditions, recommended corrective/maintenance actions, and remediation plans.
Module 6: Remediation Strategies, Repair Verification & Preventive Maintenance
- Selecting appropriate corrective actions: sealing, replacement, maintenance, re-testing.
- Post-repair verification and re-inspection procedures to ensure leak elimination and system integrity.
- Developing preventive maintenance plans and periodic inspection routines to prevent future leaks
Module 7: Regulatory Standards, Safety, and Ethical/Professional Practice
- Overview of relevant standards, safety regulations, and compliance requirements for leak detection and repair
- Professional ethics, scope definition, documentation standards, client communication, safety protocols for on-site work.
- Real-world leak detection exercises: using acoustic/ultrasonic, tracer-gas, thermal imaging, and other instruments on sample systems (compressed air, gas pipe, water plumbing).
- Analysis of case studies: failures, common mistakes, challenging leaks, lessons learned, best practice review.
- Final assessment: practical demonstration + written report or diagnosis + remediation plan.