Superior Signal Company LLC
AccuTrak
®
VPE-
1000 User’s Manual
© 2015
12
Too Much Background Noise???
The AccuTrak
®
VPE-1000 detects a narrow band of ultrasonic sound, therefore
although there may appear to be overwhelming background noise, the sound
may not be within the detection range of the AccuTrak
®
. Notice that you can yell
directly into the sensor and your voice will
not
be translated in the headset.
The AccuTrak
®
’s patented circuitry is capable o
f reproducing the sound signature
of the signal it detects. This means that the sound you hear is closely related to
the actual sound. It is an
actual translation
, not an electronically synthesized
tone, or “beep”.
Leaks
sound like a “hiss” or rushing so
und, while
compressors
“chatter” a
rhythmical mechanical pattern.
Fans
should not produce any wind noise
detectable by the AccuTrak
®
, although the
fan motor
may produce a “buzz” or
“hum”.
Example: Mechanical vibrations sound very different from leak sounds.
Shake a set of keys, then take a short quick breath through your nose.
Listening to both sounds through the AccuTrak
®
is a good example of
how the direct translation process of the AccuTrak
®
helps you to
distinguish the difference between the two signals.
Practice listening to different components of your system, this will help you to
identify the sound of a leak from other normal operational sounds.
Methods of reducing background noise interference.
Placing the flexible wave guide onto the airborne sensor will make the reception
of the AccuTrak
®
more directional. This helps shield the sensor from competing
sounds entering from other directions. Cupping your hand around the end of the
wave guide will also help to reduce the background noise.
Reducing the sensitivity will suppress the effect background noise has on the
display, and also in the headset. This will help make the leak sound more
identifiable.
The most interfering background sounds come from areas of high turbulence
within a pipe. This can be where high velocity flow changes direction, or is
restricted such as within a partially closed valve. These situations will produce a
high frequency hiss which is very similar to the sound of the leak. Use the
standard methods for reducing background noise. If you are still unsuccessful,
shut the system down. Although the pressure may be somewhat reduced, it
should still be sufficient for leak testing.
