The Superior AccuTrak® VPE and VPE-GN are 3rd Generation ultrasonic leak detectors designed for a wide range of applications, particularly air-conditioning and refrigeration leak detection. These non-invasive instruments detect ultrasound generated by turbulent flow of fluids and gases, electrical arcing, and mechanical friction, allowing for the detection of both pressure and vacuum leaks. Unlike traditional "sniffers" or torches, the AccuTrak® VPE detects sound, making it gas-independent and effective in challenging environments such as windy outdoor areas or gas-saturated spaces.
Function Description:
The AccuTrak® VPE operates by receiving ultrasonic sound that escapes from a leak point, processing its strength, and displaying it on an LED bargraph. Simultaneously, it produces an audio reproduction of the leak sound through headphones, allowing users to both "see" and "hear" the leak. This dual feedback mechanism aids in easily identifying leaks, distinguishing them from other ultrasonic sources, and pinpointing their exact location. The instrument's patented technology translates the detected ultrasonic signals into an audible sound signature, which is closely related to the actual sound, rather than an electronically synthesized tone. This helps users differentiate between leak sounds (hissing or rushing) and other operational noises like compressor chatter or fan motor hum.
The VPE-GN model is a special version featuring a 9-inch flexible GooseNeck, which allows the sensor head to be placed directly into hard-to-reach areas, blind spots, or inside machinery. It's important to note that the GooseNeck is not removable, and attempts to modify it will void the warranty. The VPE-GN cannot use the Touch Probe accessory for detecting internal ultrasound.
Important Technical Specifications and Features:
- 20% Greater Sensitivity: The 3rd Generation digital circuitry is clearer and quieter, enabling the detection of smaller leaks and faults than previous models.
- Peak Hold Display: A new function on the display that helps find leaks and faults faster by holding the maximum signal strength detected.
- Over Range Audio Alarm: A unique feature that provides a high-pitch tone and maximum LED meter reading when the sensitivity setting is exceeded, prompting the user to adjust sensitivity for optimal performance. This allows users to keep their eyes on the measurement area rather than the display.
- Improved Battery Life: Offers up to 200 hours of operation on a single standard 9-Volt Alkaline battery, approximately double the previous generation.
- Smart Battery Management: Includes low battery notification via audio and visual signals, automatic shutdown before performance degradation, and aborts power-up if the battery is weak or defective. Audio-visual signals confirm a good battery on power-up.
- More Rugged Design: Internal components have been redesigned for increased shock resistance, enhancing reliability.
- Smart Button Control: A single button controls all functions, with audio and visual signals indicating function selection and status, simplifying operation.
- Persistent Power ON: Eliminates the need to hold down the power button during operation, offering greater flexibility in handling and placement.
- Sensitivity Adjustment: A sliding control allows users to adjust sensitivity, typically starting at full sensitivity and reducing it to minimize background noise.
- Detachable Nose Cone: For the VPE model, this allows for the attachment of accessories like the Touch Probe.
- Gas Independence: Detects sound, not specific gases, making it effective for any refrigerant, compressed air, nitrogen, and even vacuum leaks.
- Detection Range: Capable of hearing leaks from over forty feet away, though it's recommended to hold the instrument as close to the test area as safely possible.
Usage Features:
- Operation: To use, plug in headphones, slide sensitivity to full, press the ON/OFF button for about one second until the display shows activity and a beep is heard, then release. Do not hold the button down during operation. Momentarily pressing the ON/OFF button toggles the "Peak Hold" function. To turn off, press and hold the ON/OFF button for at least two seconds.
- Leak Detection Technique: Scan around fittings and piping in a zigzag motion. Reduce sensitivity as you approach a leak to verify increasing indications.
- Tight Areas: Use the flexible wave guide (standard 1/4 inch tube) for tight spaces, noting that sensitivity may be slightly reduced with longer tubes.
- Pressure Optimization: Increase system pressure as much as permissible to enhance ultrasound generation from leaks.
- Water Application: Spray distilled water on suspect areas of pressurized leaks to potentially increase sound generation before scanning.
- Vacuum Leaks: For vacuum leaks, which primarily generate internal sound, pressurizing the system with dry nitrogen may be necessary to increase the sound for detection.
- Background Noise Reduction:
- The flexible wave guide makes the AccuTrak® more directional, shielding the sensor from competing sounds.
- Use simple shields like a clipboard or foam.
- Aim the instrument away from noise sources and toward the suspected leak.
- Reduce sensitivity to suppress background noise.
- If high turbulence within pipes creates similar sounds to leaks, shut down the system if possible, even if pressure is reduced.
- Other Applications:
- Electrical Arcing: Detects popping, frying, or buzzing noises from electrical failures in circuit breakers, buss bars, relays, contacts, or insulation. (Caution: Use plastic waveguide and maintain a safe distance).
- Ductwork: Identifies air leaks in pressurized duct systems.
- Pneumatics and Hydraulics: Easily finds rushing sounds from leaks in pneumatic systems (controls, hoses, tools, fittings) and hydraulic leaks. For hydraulic leaks, use the yellow waveguide to prevent fluid entry into the sensor.
- Bearings, Valves, Steam Traps & Mechanical Systems: (VPE only, not VPE-GN) Using the Touch Probe accessory, it can identify bad bearings, internally leaking valves, and bad steam traps by listening to internal sounds.
- Optional Sound Generator (SG-2): A useful accessory for detecting leaks in non-pressurized enclosures, gaskets, or seals. It emits a powerful 115dB ultrasonic tone (constant or burst) that follows potential leak paths, which can then be detected by the AccuTrak® VPE. Applications include walk-in freezers, refrigerated trailers, roof/window leaks in buildings, and air/water leaks in automobiles.
Maintenance Features:
- Battery Installation: A sliding battery door on the back of the unit. Turn the unit over, slide the panel towards you, install a new 9-volt alkaline battery (noting polarity), and close the door. A good battery will cause the display to blink. The serial number is located inside the battery compartment.
- Battery Removal for Storage: Remove the battery when storing the instrument for extended periods to prevent accidental power-on and battery drain.
- Cleaning: Clean with a towel using dish soap and a damp cloth. Remove the battery and close the door before cleaning. Do not allow water to enter the sensor area. Dry with a paper towel. Automotive vinyl cleaner can restore luster.
- Calibration: Superior AccuTrak® instruments are designed to minimize the need for regular calibrations due to tight tolerances and slow aging of components. Calibration services are available at a fixed cost if consistency with manufacturer specifications is in doubt.
Troubleshooting Guide:
- Humming Sound: Often from electrical products; place a finger over the sensor hole to confirm it disappears. This is usually not severe enough to interfere with leak detection.
- Hissing Noise: A certain amount is normal. If it's too loud to hear anything else, it indicates a problem.
- Headset Signal Cuts In/Out: Could be a low battery or a defective headset connector. Try another 3.5mm plug headset to diagnose.
- Unit Not Working/Unsure: The unit can hear the blink of your eyes if working correctly. If not, the leak may not be turbulent. Refer to "Calibration" if further suspicion of a problem.
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