Glenn Robinson, Mechanical Technician with Conoco Philips writes:

Using the ULTRAPROBE 2000 on RB211 engines offshore.

"On the platform there are three 'RB211's', and one developed a leak on the air-cooling system. Due to the intense heat we were unable to use liquid leak testing (SNOOP). This leak was impossible to find using normal methods due to machine metal faces. We rented an Ultraprobe and detected the leak within seconds. On repairing the leak another scan was done of the area and I was amazed how sensitive the equipment is as we found another three leaks we were not aware of and consequently all leaks were able to be repaired at the same time."

Glenn continues, "On completion of the above repairs I was asked for my opinion of the performance of the 'Ultraprobe', my immediate response was "We must buy one of these for permanent usage!". As the 'Ultraprobe not only detects leaks but also bearing problems on rotating equipment I was extremely impressed with it. My overall view of this equipment is it is advantageous, user friendly, has easy to follow instructions and is definitely worth investing in. I have informed many people of this exceptional piece of equipment and advised them to use it if possible."

Eric Harding, of specialist company Air Technology, says that 16 Northern Ireland companies surveyed, across a range of sectors from food production to manufacturing, spent a total of £3.4m on compressed air. An analysis by Mr Harding identified avoidable wastage of 28%, meaning that total savings of £993,000 could be made. He said that if waste were eliminated the companies would save money and help the environment by reducing discharges of harmful carbon dioxides.

Geoff Smyth, Northern Ireland manager of The Carbon Trust said, "air leaks account for the biggest source of wastage and offer an extremely rapid payback of four months on average. But a continual, aggressive, leak detection and repair policy is required to maintain savings. Most companies were unaware of the benefits that ultrasonic detectors offer and were impressed by how effective they were in detecting leaks". (See our web site for new software available for calculating and logging leaks and for printing out leak tag labels.)

As on many land sites it is sometimes difficult to safely reach leaks site or measurement points onboard a ship. Here are some accessories that will help.

Each Ultraprobe is now supplied with extension rods for the contact module, enabling the user to reach about a metre (if you don't have a set please contact us).

The Holster Set is used for carrying the Ultraprobe, headphones, etc., leaving your hands free for climbing ladders etc.

The Extension Cable allows either the scanning module or the stethoscope module to be plugged into one end whilst the other is plugged into the Ultraprobe pistol housing. By attaching the module to a pole you can check equipment whilst remaining some distance away (e.g. if you want to check for a leak but it is tricky or dangerous to get too close).

The Magnetic Mount allows for hands free inspection and can be used with either the scanning or contact modules in conjunction with the extension cable.

The Close Focus Module is particularly suitable for detecting small vacuum leaks e.g. condenser leaks or ingress at turbine seals etc. It is intended for close scanning work.

The Long Range Module doubles the detection distance of standard modules. Its great for high voltage inspection and for detecting leaks at distance such as high ceilings.

NB: details of all accessories will shortly appear on our web site.

ULTRASOUND. Any person using airborne ultrasound equipment, no matter the manufacturer, is invited to benefit from a certified Level 1 UK training course in Airborne Ultrasound commencing 3rd November. This five-day course covers the theory, principles and practices of Airborne Ultrasound Technology and will be conducted by an overseas tutor. Cost for the course is £1,195 per person, but only £995 if you book before the end of September.

THERMOGRAPHY. Any person using a thermal imaging camera, no matter the manufacturer, is invited to benefit from a certified Level 1 UK training course, one 1-5 September and another 10-14 November. These five-day courses cover the Introduction to Thermography, Heat & Temperature, Infrared Theory Basics, Infrared Equipment, Measurement Techniques, Basic Heat transfer theory, Camera/Software familiarisation, and ITC Certification Test. Cost for the course is £1,810 per person including accommodation or £1365 without accommodation.

If you are interested in attending either of these courses and would like to receive details please e-mail us at info@alpine-components.co.uk.

It's always good to receive your feedback, on any product we have sold or rented. If you have a success story that you would like to share with others in a future newsletter, please get in touch.

Our web site www.alpine-components.co.uk gives more information.

It is always good to receive your feedback on any product we have sold or rented. If you have a success story that you would like to share with others in a future newsletter, then please do get in touch.

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Contact Us - Jeremy Lineham, Mike Trim, Toni Simmonds, Jon Hill