Ultrasonic air leak detection
No more time lost on site: test the quality and airtightness of envelope components as soon as they are installed.
What is ultrasonic leak detection?
Ultrasonic leak detection is a qualitative diagnostic technique for the building envelope, particularly for window and door installation. An omnidirectional ultrasound generator, usually placed outside the building, emits a frequency – a sound – picked up by a sensor inside, which the operator moves to locate
precisely the defects around a window, for example. The strength of the recorded sound tells the operator how large the airtightness defects are. This technique makes it possible to test the airtightness of components before the building is weathertight and before the first air permeability tests.
How is the test carried out?
Collecting
technical information
Before the site visit, the operator collects the building plans and sections, as well as the technical details to be tested. This gives a better technical understanding of the building and its potential weak points.
Site visit
and test
The operator places the ultrasound emitter outside at a suitable distance from the component to be tested, and first looks for a “sound” with a wide-cone receiver. The search is then refined with a probe fitted with a smaller receiver for finer leaks.
Writing the
inspection report
The operator writes a full inspection report on the technical details tested, analysing recurring issues and defects found: screws through a sealing tape, faulty seals or membranes, etc.
Why use ultrasound testing?
Better
site scheduling
Ultrasonic leak detection tests the airtightness of some envelope components without waiting for the building to be fully closed.
A fast and
detailed diagnosis
Ultrasound gives fast, cost-effective and accurate feedback on the installation quality of windows, airtight membranes and other building components.
Validating the
installation of components
Ultrasonic leak detection validates the installation of one or more specific facade elements (curtain walls, glazed facades, etc.) or airtight membranes, without slowing down the site.
Our expertise
Few testing firms offer ultrasonic leak detection. Our years of experience in this field have given us a full command of the technique, which we make available to our clients.
