ON-SITE TESTING
We provide a well trained and competent staff to attend on-site testing, both pre and post outage.
We work directly with on-site personnel, including the control room and operations, to coordinate all testing activity. We acquire data on the valve, upstream and downstream of the valve, and on any other valve or trap item that might impact the acoustic emissions signal taken on the valve. As a result, we are able to identify background noises and cross talk that may affect test results.
We conduct regular safety meetings and coordinate all valve manipulations closely with plant personnel. Our testing is 100% non-destructive and we guarantee a full return to normal operation.
Data Acquisition
Leak Detection Services, Inc. uses the patented ValveAlyzer® System to acquire and analyze data. The ValveAlyzer® is used to determine if the valve leaks and the likely extent of the damage.
Originally developed for nuclear submarines, it is in worldwide use in power plants, refineries, pipelines, and U. S. Navy ships.
LDS temporarily attaches transducers, via a standoff, to detect ultrasonic acoustic emissions over the 10 kHz to 800 kHz range. Its two-channel capability allows it to separate leak signals from high ambient background noise. The ValveAlyzer®; System stores and displays the signatures, verifies good repeatability, and provides an initial conclusion, including leak sizing. A conclusion over-ride feature allows our highly trained field personnel to accept or reject the initial conclusions. Initial conclusion rejection can occur for many reasons.
It uses four methods of signature analysis, including
 The Signature Comparison Method
The Differential Signature Method
The Direct Comparison Method
The Time Sweep Method
Image one demonstrates the use of the Transducer and Standoff at the valve. Notice the insulation hole that has been created for testing.
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Image two demonstrates signature capture and verification by The ValveAlyzer®; System. Notice that data acquisition is very fast. Data is sampled at a rate up to 1.2 Mhz and samples are averaged over a one second period.
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