Operating Manual
Model 16455
TruTrack Ultrasonic
Leak Detector
Table of Contents
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Operation of Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Tips on Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
A Note About Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The Contact Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Background Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Reducing Background Noise Interference . . . . . . . . . . 7
Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Other Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Electrical Arcing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Ductwork . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Pneumatics and Hydraulics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Leaks Behind Walls or Under Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Optional Sound Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Battery Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Replacement Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
WARNING
Contact with gases may cause personal
injury. To prevent injury, wear protective
equipment including safety goggles.
1
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the Robinair TruTrack Ultrasonic
Leak Detector, the only ultrasonic instrument specically designed for air
conditioning and refrigeration leak detection. TruTrack is the ideal tool
for detecting both vacuum and pressure leaks of any refrigerant. Because
this instrument detects sound, it is gas-independent. Even dry nitrogen
leaks can be detected.
The TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector locates leaks in gas-saturated
areas, in windy conditions, and in systems under negative pressure
(vacuum states). It eliminates the need to use tracer gases since it uses
sound waves to locate leaks.
Description
The TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector is a non-invasive detector that
locates both pressure and vacuum leaks. It represents an advanced level
of technology, because it is a listening device that detects ultrasonic
sounds, not chemical refrigerants.
A leak is any unwanted ow of a substance out of a system, or in a
vacuum, into a system. Friction in ow generates sound. For example,
water owing in pipes creates sound just as air leaking out of a tire. The
sound humans can hear represents less than a third of the total spectrum
of frequencies generated. The sound made by small leaks is mostly
ultrasonic—above the human hearing range.
The TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector “hears” the sound of the
turbulent gases moving through the opening at the leak site and displays
the strength of the sound. The larger the leak, the stronger the indication
on the detector. The detector also produces an audio reproduction of
the leak sound. The intensity of the audio changes proportionally to the
intensity of the leak sound.
2
Introduction
Theory of Operation
The theory of operation of the TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector is
based on the turbulent ow of uids and gases. Turbulent ow has a high
content of ultrasound, which is above human hearing range but can be
heard by TruTrack and traced to its source.
Turbulence must occur for a leak to be detected. If a straight piece of
tubing is connected to a gas supply and left free to exhaust into the
atmosphere, it will not generate any sound if the volume of gas moving
through it is too gentle for turbulence to take place. Normally, at the leak
site, there will be holes and / or cracks that are jagged and have odd,
internal chambers. Fluids or gases escaping through openings like this
are forced into turbulence—random circular-like motions.
The intensity of sound generated at a leak is a complex combination
of the viscosity, temperature, speed the uid is moving, Raynolds
number, pressure differential across the leak, and physical dimensions
and characteristics of the crack or hole. Because of these variables, it is
possible for a smaller leak to generate more sound than a larger one.
WARNING
Ultrasonic detectors do not indicate a leak
if there is no turbulent flow producing
soundwaves. If you suspect a toxic gas,
natural gas, or other combustible gas leak, but
do not detect it with the TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak
Detector, DO NOT ASSUME that a leak does not
exist. To prevent personal injury, use another
method of verification to ensure no dangerous
gases are present.
3
Operation of Unit
Operating the TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector
1. Plug the headphones into the jack located on the right side of the
instrument.
2. Slide the sensitivity adjustment all the way forward toward the
sensor. The instrument is now set at full sensitivity.
3. Press and hold the ON/OFF button to turn on the instrument. The
button requires minimal pressure.
NOTE: You can use your left thumb to hold this button and your left
index nger to adjust the sensitivity level. Always start at full sensitivity.
Gradually reduce the sensitivity to reduce the effect of background noise,
if necessary.
4. Hold the instrument as close to the suspected area as possible.
Check around the ttings and piping using a zigzag motion. Cover
all suspected areas.
5. Watch the LED window. If a leak is detected, an increase displays
in this window. You also hear a rushing sound coming through
the headphones. The sound becomes more intense, and the meter
reading increases as the instrument is placed closer to the leak.
NOTE: If there is noise in the area and the display is at its full sensitivity,
reduce the degree of sensitivity until the lights disappear. The display
reading is only for relative measurements.
Observing two lights instead of ten can mean two things:
(1) Either you are too far from a suspected leak or (2) the leak is smaller
than the one that produces ten lights. Use the sound intensity you hear
in the headset and the varying number of lights to guide you toward the
leak point. Reduce the sensitivity as you approach to verify you are on
the right path.
4
Operating Tips
Tips on Use
1. If you are trying to nd a leak in a conned area, use the ex tube
insert located in the nose of the instrument. You can use any length
of tubing (it is a standard 1/4 in.), but remember that the sensitivity
reduces as the tube gets longer.
2. When preparing to test for leaks, pressurize the system as much as
safely possible. Increasing the pressure can double the ow through
a hole or crack, making leak detection easier.
3. If the system permits, spray distilled water on the suspect area.
Before the water runs off, scan the area. Water sprayed on a
pressurized leak can also increase the amount of sound created.
4. When searching for vacuum leaks, remember that the majority of
the sound created by the leak is internal. If the system seals permit,
pressurize the system with dry nitrogen in order to increase the
sound of the leak.
5
Operation
A Note About Sensitivity
Ultrasonic leak detectors “hear” leaks; therefore, the sensitivity is
accurately stated in terms of decibels. The amount of sound pressure
created by the leak determines its ability to be detected ultrasonically.
The TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector detects the most common leaks
encountered in refrigeration equipment. Left untreated, these leaks would
result in the loss of several pounds of refrigerant into the atmosphere
over a period of time. The TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector is the only
detector that pinpoints a vacuum leak and also detects any pressurized
gas leak in any system. It is also more accurate for detecting larger leaks,
because its sensor does not become saturated with refrigerants or set off
alarms due to refrigerant gases in the air.
The Contact Probe Accessory (16456)
The TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector detects sound that travels through
solid materials as well as air. The contact probe accessory is used to
detect sounds that are internally generated.
Such sounds include abnormal ow in piping, leaks through bad valve
seats, and steam trap leaks. Other applications include the detection of
friction, lack of lubrication, and worn bearings, motors and gears. The
probe physically converts sound within a solid to an airborne frequency.
Once airborne, the signal is concentrated and projected into the sensor of
the TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector.
Using the Contact Probe:
1. Unscrew the existing nosepiece, and screw on the nosepiece
containing the contact probe.
2. Place the tip of the probe onto the item being tested with just enough
force to hold it in place.
6
Types of Sounds
Background Noise
The TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector detects a narrow band of
ultrasonic sound. There might be overwhelming background noise, but
those sounds are not normally within the detection range of the detector.
The detector’s patented 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
synthesized 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
exible 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 correct sounds, shut down the system. There will
probably still be enough pressure to perform a leak test.
7
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Tips
1. Humming sound: Certain electrical products, such as computer
terminals, emit a high frequency “humming” sound. This sound is
not electrical interference—it represents an actual sound that the
TruTrack is hearing. In almost all cases, this sound is not severe
enough to interfere with leak detection.
2. Hissing noises: A certain amount of hiss is normal for ultrasonic
detectors and you can expect to hear it. However, if it is so loud that
you cannot hear anything else, investigate the true cause of the hiss.
3. The signal in the head set cuts in and out: There are two reasons
this problem may occur: (1) a low battery or (2) a bad headset
connector.
4. Not sure the unit is working? Use this test: Can the unit hear the
blink of your eyes? If it can, this unit is probably working well.
Remember that the leak you are trying to nd may not be turbulent.
See “Calibration” if you further suspect a problem.
8
Other Applications
Other Applications
1. Electrical Arcing: A jump in electrical current or ARC makes
a popping, frying, or buzzing noise in the ultrasonic range. The
TruTrack can be used to locate electrical failures that cause a
decline in power quality. Use the detector to test circuit breakers,
buss bars, relays, corrosion in contacts, or poor insulation.
WARNING
Work with care and use common sense
around electrical currents. Use the plastic
wave-guide to help you determine where
currents are located; to prevent personal injury,
keep a safe distance from the electrical currents.
2. Ductwork: Leaking ducts can be a signicant source of energy loss.
Use TruTrack to identify the sound of leaking air from a pressurized
duct system.
3. Pneumatics and Hydraulics: Leaks are quite common in
pneumatic systems (controls, hoses, tools, ttings). Listen for the
rushing sound of the leak.
4. Leaks Behind Walls or Under Insulation: This type of leak is
difcult to nd by any method; drywall and insulation drastically
reduce the amount of sound present on the opposite side. Although
TruTrack was not designed to nd this type of leak, it has been
somewhat successful nding large leaks in these situations.
9
Optional Equipment
Optional Sound Generator (16451)
The Ultrasonic Sound Generator is used to detect leaks in enclosures that
are not under pressure.
The sound generator is placed inside a vessel, such as a walk-in freezer
or refrigerated trailer. The sound generator emits a powerful 115 dB
ultrasonic tone, which follows the empty passage a gas or liquid would
travel to produce a leak. The tone can then be identied at the point of
exit by using the TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector.
The sound generator has a selectable output. Constant tone is used in
most situations, while “burst tone” is more easily identied in loud,
industrial environments.
Other sound generator applications include (1) locating roof and window
leaks, as well as (2) locating air/water leaks in automobile windshields,
sunroofs, doors, etc.
10
Maintenance
Care and Maintenance
Clean the TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector with mild soap (such as
dish soap) and a damp cloth. Remove the battery and close the battery
compartment door before cleaning. Do not allow water to enter the unit,
especially in the front where the sensors are located.
After cleaning, dry the unit with a paper towel. Restore the luster by
applying an automotive vinyl cleaner with a clean cloth.
Remove the battery if you plan to store the unit for an extended period of
time.
Battery Installation
1. Turn the unit upside down so the controls are facing the oor and
the sensor is facing away from your body.
2. Locate the sliding battery door on the back of the unit, at the
opposite end from the sensors.
3. Apply light pressure to the center of the battery door, and slide it
toward you, exposing the battery compartment.
4. Install a fresh 9-volt battery, using the (+) and (-) indicators, which
are printed on the label, for positioning the battery.
Calibration
TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detectors are designed to minimize the need
for regular calibrations. If there is a need to know for sure that the
detector is consistent with the manufacturer’s specications, or if you
suspect a problem, Robinair will perform the calibration at a xed cost.
Call 1-800-822-5561 for current calibration costs.
For service and repairs contact:
Robinair
655 Eisenhower Drive, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone 1-800-822-5561 • Fax 1-800-822-7805
11
Warranty
No-Hassle Warranty
Robinair vacuum pumps and test instruments are backed by the best
coverage available—our No-Hassle warranty. If your Robinair product
fails, simply return it to a Robinair distributor for an immediate over-thecounter warranty (with proof of purchase) to your local dealer, and get a
new unit.
That’s it! No waiting. No complicated forms. No hassles. All authorized
Robinair wholesalers can provide you with a new, identical piece of
equipment in exchange for a malfunctioning one when you have proof
of purchase and meet the conditions listed below. Our liberal warranty
coverage is further assurance that you made a smart choice when you
picked Robinair.
Test Instruments—
The following conditions must be met
for an over-the-counter exchange:
A. The date of claim does not exceed one year from the date of
purchase by the user, or 18 months from the wholesaler’s original
date of purchase, as determined by the invoice.
B. The instrument is mechanically defective and is returned with a
full description of the defect. Defects due to abuse, mishandling, or
accidental damage are not covered.
C. The instrument must have been purchased new.
D. A copy of the sales receipt or other dated proof of purchase must
accompany each returned item.
A credit for the full value of the product covered by this warranty is
issued to the wholesaler’s account when the defective unit is received at
our factory in Owatonna, Minnesota. Send all over-the-counter exchange
units with supporting documentation to the attention of Service Repair.
12
Replacement Parts
The following is a list of replacement parts and accessories for the unit.
For ordering information, use the technical support telephone number
listed on the back cover of this manual.
Part No. Part Name
16451 Optional Sound Generator
16452 Replacement Tube
16456 Contact Probe
16458 Headset
16455 TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector
13
For help in servicing your TruTrack Ultrasonic Leak Detector,
call our toll-free Technical Support Line:
1-800-822-5561
☎
To help us serve you better, please be prepared to provide the model number, serial number, and date of purchase of the unit.
NATIONWIDE NETWORK OF AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTERS
If your unit needs replacement parts, contact the service center in your area.
For help in locating a service center, call the toll-free technical support line.
in the co
In all other locations, call your local distributor.
Due to ongoing product improvements,
specications, and materials without notice.
ntinental U.S. and Canada.
we reserve the right to change design,
655 Eisenhower Drive
Owatonna, MN 55060 USA
Technical Services: 1-800-822-5561
Fax: 1-866-259-1241
Customer Service: 1-800-533-6127
Fax: 1-800-322-2890
www.robinair. com
525521 (Rev. C, March 28, 2014) © Bosch Automotive Service Solutions LLC
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