UAP Leak Detection

Reducing air leaks on your compressed air system by utilising leak detection is the single most important energy-saving measure that can be performed. The leak rate on an unmanaged compressed air system can be as much as 40% of the output.

Compressed air leaks also lead to additional costs through:

  • Fluctuating system pressure, which can cause air tools and other air-operated equipment to function less efficiently — potentially stalling and affecting production.
  • Reduced service life and increased maintenance of equipment due to unnecessary compressor cycling and running time.
  • Excess compressor capacity. The sources of leakage are numerous, but the most frequent causes are:
    • Manual condensate drain valves left open.
    • Shut-off valves left open.
    • Leaking hoses, couplings, pipes and pipe joints.
    • Leaking pressure regulators.
    • Air-using equipment left in operation when not needed.

How Much Do Air Leaks Cost?

Hole Diameter (mm) Air leakage at 7bar(g) Power to air leaks (kW) Cost of leak (£/year)
Litres/s cfm 52 x 48 hour weeks 52 x 120 hour weeks
0.50 0.20 0.42 0.08 £19.92 £49.80
1.50 1.80 3.80 0.72 £180.21 £450.53
3.00 7.10 15.00 2.85 £711.36 £1778.40
6.00 28.00 59.00 11.21 £2798.02 £6995.04

Identifying and Measuring Leaks

There are a number of ways for detecting leaks. Handheld ultrasonic leak detectors provide an effective method of detecting leaks against background noise without having to stop production.

Here at UAP, we offer a number of leak detection and repair programmes to keep your leak rate at a manageable level. From quick locate and tag plans to complete ASA reports we can accurately calculate your sites energy wastage through leaks.

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