Ultrasound Feasibility Study

Ultrasonic waves will fill air voids but are largely obstructed by any solid material.

Case Study

Using Ultrasound for Leak Detection on glazing and curtain walling systems

Synopsis

Ultrasonic waves will fill air voids but are largely obstructed by any solid material. If any seals or gaskets in a cladding system are defective and could leak water, they will also leak ultrasonic waves.

Ultrasound is commonly used for detection of air & water leaks in the following situations: Shipping container and hatches, High Speed trains, luxury cars, heavy construction plant to reduce air leaks that can allow dust infiltration.

By generating Ultrasound on one side of a cladding system, Trace Surveys can then use an ultrasonic sensor on the other side of the cladding to detect the points where ultrasound leaks.

Training

When assessing the feasibility in using Ultrasound for leak detection in building façade, two members of our surveying team travelled to SDT in Belgium where they trained and qualified as Level 1 Airborne Ultrasound Inspectors. The course taught our Surveyors the range of applications that Ultrasound can be used in and how it can be effectively applied to those applications.

Building Application

Ultrasound is an extremely effective tool to detect leaks through glazed cladding systems. It can be used for construction phase integrity testing or reactive leak detection. It can also be used to determine air leakage paths when investigating odour issues.

Examples of testing

Integrity testing of curtain wall SW London

Leak detection in glazed atrium in SE London

Integrity testing of glazing in Central London

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Case Studies

Past Projects

Take a look at some of the work we have completed

Commercial Leak

Commercial Leak

Water had been dripping through the ceiling for several weeks.

Domestic Pipe Leak

Domestic Pipe Leak

Property recently developed visible signs of damp. Insurers suspected that a leaking buried pipe was the cause.

Reviews

Trusted by Professionals

Rated 5 out of 5
“We have used Trace Surveys to investigate issues at one of the buildings I manage in Epsom. Dean and Luke have been extremely helpful throughout, demonstrating a high level of expertise and professionalism. They took the time to explain their findings clearly and provided a thorough and efficient service. I would not hesitate to recommend Trace Surveys and look forward to working with them again in the future.”
Carlos Martins
Rated 5 out of 5
“We were at the end of out tether with a continuous and long running leak issue on a flat roof extension, including a series of 'fixes' that may have made things worse. Trace Surveys and our inspector Luke took a scientific approach to the problem and identified clearly several key issues and had the technology to see the impact of the test. The report was clear on what needed to be done and easy to pass on to the right tradespeople to inform a better conversation on how to fix the issue. Luke Winconek was excellent, from his skill, manner and aftercare on how this issue is being resolved. I would recommend Trace Surveys and Luke in particular if you get to the point of needing to identify a complex issue and properly get to the root cause.”
Alex G Smith
Rated 5 out of 5
“I honestly can’t recommend Trace Surveys highly enough. From the first enquiry through to completion, the entire process was handled professionally, efficiently, and with real attention to detail. Communication was clear throughout, no chasing, no confusion, just straightforward, honest advice and delivery exactly as promised. The quality of insoection is excellent. Everything was completed to a very high standard, on time, and with obvious a full detailed report. The team were punctual, respectful, and left everything clean and tidy, which makes a huge difference. They found a leak that others have looked for for years previous. What really stood out was their knowledge and willingness to go the extra mile. Any questions were answered thoroughly, and nothing felt like too much trouble. We now only use trace!”
Andrew Çupitt
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Accredited & certified

UKAS accredited testing laboratory No. 27651

UKAS accredited testing laboratory No. 27651. Our accreditation covers site airborne and impact sound insulation testing, and watertightness testing of curtain walling, rainscreens, slope glazing and windows.

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