Leak detector with camera LD 500/510
Create an ISO 50001 report with leak detector LD 500 with camera and leakage calculation (l/min and costs in €).
LD 500, UltraCam or LeakCam 600 – which system is right for you?
Application report: Choosing between audible ultrasonic leak detection, visual hotspot identification and a high-performance camera
1. Why there are different types of ultrasonic leak detectors
Not all ultrasonic leak detection is camera-based. Conventional ultrasonic leak detectors convert the ultrasonic waves generated by leaks into an audible signal. This method has been used by CS INSTRUMENTS in numerous industrial applications, including with the LD 300, LD 400, LD 450 and LD 500 devices.
Ultrasonic cameras complement acoustic detection by providing visual localisation of sound sources. The calculated sound sources are displayed as hotspots directly in the camera image. This makes it easier to identify individual components, distinguish between multiple sound sources and document leaks.
Development of CS INSTRUMENTS’ leak detection devices: each generation makes it easier to locate, document and repair leaks
2. Standard ultrasonic leak detectors: LD series
The LD 500 makes the ultrasound generated by a leak audible. To do this, the ultrasound signal is converted into the audible frequency range using the heterodyne method. The characteristic sound of the leak is retained, enabling the user to locate the sound source acoustically.
- Signal acquisition: The ultrasonic sensor detects the narrow-band ultrasonic signal from the leak.
- Filtering: Low-frequency production noise is suppressed.
- Mathematical mixing: An internal oscillator generates a reference frequency.
- Frequency subtraction: The leak signal and reference frequency combine to produce an audible difference frequency.
- Acoustic output: The generated difference frequency is output via headphones. This enables the user to locate the leak acoustically based on the signal intensity.
3. Making ultrasound visible: UltraCam and LeakCam
The UltraCam LD 500/510 combines the audible detection of ultrasound with visual localisation of the sound source. In addition to the audible leakage signal, the sound source is displayed as a hotspot in the camera image. This allows acoustic guidance and visual identification to be combined.
The LeakCam 600 was developed for applications involving long measurement distances, multiple simultaneous sound sources and increased requirements for noise suppression. The system is based on 64 digital MEMS microphones, power beamforming and FFT-based frequency analysis.
LeakCam: the next generation of leak detection devices from CS INSTRUMENTS – visual localisation via an acoustic camera.
4. Accessories: Alignment funnel, gooseneck and parabolic mirror
| System / Accessories | Technical principle | Typical benefits |
| LD 500 with directional horn | Piezo ultrasonic transducer with acoustic focusing within the beam angle of the directional horn. | Piezo ultrasonic transducer with acoustic focusing within the beam angle of the directional horn. |
| LD 500 with gooseneck | The sensor is positioned very close to the pipe. | In the event of severe interference, measurements can be taken at a distance of just a few centimetres; extraneous sound is spatially reduced. |
| LD 500 with parabolic mirror | The parabolic reflective surface focuses parallel ultrasonic waves at the sensor’s focal point. | High directivity and long-range detection when the sound source is correctly targeted. |
| UltraCam LD 500/510 | 30 MEMS microphones plus audible feedback of the ultrasound. | Combination of acoustic guidance and visual hotspot mapping. |
| LeakCam 600 | 64 digital MEMS microphones, large array, power beamforming, FFT frequency management. | High-performance solution for large installations, multiple sources, interference suppression and visual documentation. |
| Leak Reporter | Software-supported documentation, prioritisation and tracking. | Repair planning, cost-benefit analysis, demonstration of potential savings. |
5. When is an LD 500 the right choice?
The LD 500 is particularly suitable for close-range measurements, the systematic inspection of pipes and the use of accessories such as goosenecks, directional funnels or parabolic mirrors. The acoustic guidance assists the user in pinpointing sound sources by helping them to approach the leak location.
6. When is it a good idea to use a camera?
A camera is useful when leaks need to be visually pinpointed quickly, when there are several potential sources within the field of view, when certain areas of the plant cannot be accessed, or when the focus is on documenting the issue with visual evidence. Visual identification reduces the time spent searching and minimises misunderstandings during repairs.
7. When is the LeakCam 600 the right choice?
The LeakCam 600 is particularly useful for large installations, ceiling-mounted pipework, complex environments with interference, multiple leaks within the field of view and over longer distances. Power beamforming and frequency management help to separate sound sources of varying volumes and reduce interference in a targeted manner.
Power Beamforming vs. Standard Beamforming: multiple leaks are made more clearly visible with the LeakCam.
8. Which solution for which application?
| Application | Recommended solution | Advantage | Limit / Note |
| Close-range, many components in close proximity | LD 500 with gooseneck | Sensor very close to the component; extraneous noise is reduced. | Without a camera image, visual identification is less straightforward. |
| Conventional leak detection with documentation | LD 500 / LD 510 | Audible localisation, image, leak calculation and reporting. | The user follows the loudest signal. |
| Visual identification and audible signal | UltraCam LD 500/510 | Combines hotspot detection and acoustic guidance. | Standard beamforming has its limitations when dealing with multiple sources of varying volume. |
| Large installation, distance, multiple sources | LeakCam 600 | Power beamforming, 64 microphones, FFT, high image resolution. | Plan for a larger area and closer to the product; not always necessary for purely close-range searches. |
| Repair planning and cost-saving analysis | Leak Reporter | Prioritisation, report, repair status. | Requires consistent data maintenance and a repair process. |
More
LeakCam 600 - all relevant leakages at a glance
Detects multiple leakages simultaneously with globally unique Power Beam Forming. 4th generation technology - also suitable for other gases. Helps to locate and repair leaks - including cost estimation and ISO 50001 documentation.
Ultrasound Camera UltraCam LD 500/510
uses 30 MEMS microphones for the Calculation and visualisation of the ultrasound image. The device also makes inaudible ultrasound audible.
CS Leak Reporter Cloud solution - for LD 500/510 and LC 600
The CS Leak Reporter Cloud Solution combines the functionalities of the CS Leak Reporter V2 with a browser-based cloud system.
CS Leak Reporter V2 - reporting software for LD 500/510 and LC 600
For detailed ISO 50001 reports. Gives an illustrated overview on the detected leaks and possible savings.