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Ultrasound

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Strengthen Reliability and Reduce Electrical Risk

Ultrasound Electrical Inspection

Ultrasound inspection may be performed on both open access and enclosed electrical equipment at all voltages (low, medium and high). When electrical apparatus such as switchgear, transformers, insulators or disconnects and splices fail, the results can be catastrophic. This is just as true in industrial plants as it is in the power transmission and distribution side. Electrical discharges such as arcing, tracking or, in higher voltages, corona have the potential to create equipment failure and costly downtime. In addition, the problems of RFI and TVI impact on our valuable communication networks. In enclosed equipment, if left undetected, these conditions can become a source of an arc flash incident, which can result in severe injury or death. Arcing, tracking and corona produce ultrasound and are detected with a variety of ultrasonic instruments.

How Ultrasound Detection Works

Arcing, tracking and corona all produce ionization which disturbs the surrounding air molecules. An Ultrasonic probe detects high frequency sounds produced by these emissions and translates them (via heterodyning) down into the audible ranges. The specific sound quality of each type of emission is heard in headphones while the intensity of the signal is observed on a display panel. These sounds may be recorded and analyzed through ultrasound spectral analysis software for a more accurate diagnosis. Normally, electrical equipment should be silent, although some equipment such as transformers may produce a constant hum, or some steady mechanical noises. These should not be confused with the erratic, sizzling frying, uneven and popping sound of an electrical discharge.
  • Arcing, tracking, and corona produce ionization that disturbs surrounding air molecules.
  • An ultrasonic probe detects the high-frequency sounds generated by these emissions.
  • The probe translates (via heterodyning) these ultrasonic sounds down into the audible range.
  • Each type of electrical emission has a distinct sound quality that can be heard through headphones.
  • The signal intensity is displayed on a panel for visual reference.
  • Sounds can be recorded and analyzed using ultrasonic spectral analysis software for more accurate diagnosis.
  • Under normal conditions, electrical equipment should operate quietly.
  • Some equipment (such as transformers) may produce a constant hum or steady mechanical noise.
  • These normal sounds should not be confused with the erratic, sizzling, frying, uneven, or popping sounds associated with electrical discharge.

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.

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

Strengthen Reliability and Reduce Electrical Risk

Schedule an Ultrasound Electrical Inspection and support safer, longer-lasting infrastructure.
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