New precision acoustic imager detects electrical discharge

The new Fluke ii910 Precision Acoustic Imager uniquely facilitates the detection of corona and partial discharge from a safe distance of up to 120m. Teams can work safely, minimise the risk of fires and help decrease outages. The device also provides higher sensitivity to detect compressed air, gas, and vacuum system leaks, lowering downtime, costing up to EUR 1000 per minute.

The rugged device’s intuitive operation means no training is needed – it is easy to learn and simple to use. The straightforward, intuitive interface enables technicians to isolate the sound frequency of the leak and filter out background noise in even the loudest environments.

The rugged, handheld casing of the device offers a seven-inch LCD touchscreen that overlays a SoundMap on a visual image for fast identification of discharge or leaks between frequencies of 2-100kHZ. The array of integral microphones converts ultrasound signals into clear visual images on the backlit touchscreen. Captured data may be transferred by an integral USB-C socket straight to a PC. From here, the data can be uploaded to the Machine Learning PDQ Mode Reporting Platform. This provides the most important partial discharge insights, including partial discharge type identification. The device gives video recording of up to five minutes and has a battery life of at least six hours.

The company's SoundSight technology now allows corona and partial discharge to be simply located. For technicians working with high voltages in power generation and transmission and with industrial high voltage equipment, the device offers more sophisticated detection than standard ultrasonic tools while providing the visual performance of more expensive UV cameras. It detects, locates and gives visual reporting and severity assessment of corona and partial discharges. Technicians in production locations are able to isolate the sound frequency of the leak and filter out background noise in even the noisiest environments. Industrial maintenance technicians can identify leaks at a safe distance notably faster than employing traditional diagnostic methods, even through peak production periods.