Leaks in a compressed air system have been a likened to a ‘hole in your pocket’; and there is no better analogy. Air leakage is the single largest waste of compressed air and in-turn electrical energy, accounting for up to 40% of air consumption in an un-managed system. To put this into perspective, a single 3mm leak in your compressed air system could be costing up to £700 per year. Compressed air leaks are often overlooked as unlike a water leak, they very often cannot be seen……until you look at your electricity bill.
Our leak detection service uses ultrasonic survey handguns better known as ultrasonic leak detectors (ULD’s). This sophisticated equipment detects high frequency sound waves produced by air leaks from compressed air pipework, ancillary equipment and components. This is transferred to an audible hissing noise in the operator’s headphones. Upon identifying the source of the air leak/s in your system, they are tagged and itemised in a comprehensive report which will also include a quotation for repairs and potential cost savings upon completion of leak repairs.
Case Study:
A recent leak detection survey carried out by Telford Compressed Air Services at a large packaging company found 86 significant leaks within their compressed air system. Each leak within the system was categorised from 1-10 with leak value being from 0.5 CFM (Category 1) up to 100 CFM (Category 10).
Submitted in the detailed report was the location of air leaks, category of leak and the piece of equipment affected.
It was calculated that the air leaks in the system alone were consuming 36.1 Kilo-Watts of energy per hour which accounted for an annual electrical energy cost of £23,955.
The cost of repair of the leaks, including affected equipment replacement was £4500.00 producing a return on the air leak repair cost in a matter of weeks.
Compressed air leaks are inevitable within a compressed air system, but with the correct management both costs and carbon emissions are reduced to a minimum.
