User Manual

16455 TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector
7
Overview
Background Noise
The TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector detects a narrow band of ultra-
sonic sound. There might be overwhelming background noise, but those
sounds are not normally within the detection range of the detector.
The detector’s circuitry reproduces the sound signature of the
signal it detects. Consequently, the sound you hear is closely related to
the actual sound. It is an actual translation, not an electronically synthe-
sized tone or beep.
Leaks sound like a “hiss” or rushing sound, while compressors “chatter”
a rhymical mechanical pattern. Fans generally do not produce any wind
noise that is detected by the TruTrack, but the fan motor may produce a
“buzz” or “hum.”
NOTE: 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 detector provides a good example
of how the direct translation process helps you distinguish the difference
between the two signals. Experiment by listening to other sounds made
by your refrigerant systems. You will soon be able to identify the sound
of a leak.
Tips for Reducing Background Noise Interference:
1. To make the reception of the TruTrack more directional, place the
flexible wave guide into the sensor port.
2. Cup your hand around the end of the wave guide to help reduce
background noise.
3. Reduce the instrument’s sensitivity to suppress the effect that
background noises have on the display.
4. If there is high turbulence within a pipe and you have trouble
detecting the proper sounds, shut the system down. There will
probably still be enough pressure to perform a leak test.
Types of Sounds