Ultrasound
Strengthen Reliability and Reduce Electrical Risk
Ultrasound Electrical Inspection
Ultrasound Electrical Inspection is a proactive, non-invasive method for identifying electrical discharge issues—such as arcing, tracking, and corona—across low, medium, and high-voltage equipment. These failures occur in assets such as switchgear, transformers, insulators, disconnects, and splices, and can result in equipment damage, power interruptions, and costly unplanned outages.
If left undetected, electrical discharge can escalate into arc flash events, posing extreme safety hazards and major operational risk. Ultrasound inspection allows these issues to be detected early, before they lead to system failure.
How Ultrasound Detection Works
Electrical discharges disturb air molecules, producing ultrasonic frequencies that are not audible to the human ear.
Thermal Shock:
Extreme cold (–109.5 °F) fractures contaminant bonds.
Using specialized ultrasonic detection equipment:
-
The ultrasonic signal is captured.
-
The instrument converts it into a sound the inspector can hear.
Signal patterns help distinguish between:
-
Arcing (sharp, crackling bursts)
-
Tracking (irregular sizzling)
-
Corona (steady, frying sound)
These signals are also displayed visually and can be recorded for spectral analysis, providing precise diagnostics for maintenance planning.
Inspection Applications
Ultrasound inspection is effective for both open and enclosed equipment, including:
-
Switchgear (indoor and outdoor)
-
Transformers and substations
-
Disconnect switches and bus bars
-
Overhead and underground distribution
-
Industrial electrical systems
For hard-to-access equipment, DDP Technology uses parabolic microphones to detect ultrasonic discharge from a safe distance, ensuring accuracy without exposure to hazards.
Inspection Procedure & Safety
Our technicians follow all applicable electrical safety standards, including CSA Z462 and NFPA 70E.
Inspection steps include:
1.
-
Initial area scan at high sensitivity.
2.
-
Gradual sensitivity reduction to pinpoint the discharge source.
3.
-
Scan through vent slots, seams, and panel openings when equipment is enclosed.
4.
-
Record, classify, and document discharge patterns.
5.
-
Provide recommendations for corrective or preventive action.
Benefits of Ultrasound Electrical Inspection
-
Detects faults before failure occurs
-
Prevents arc flash risk
-
Reduces unplanned downtime
-
Enhances asset reliability and lifespan
-
Supports predictive maintenance programs
-
Safe for energized equipment