NEW: How an app is revolutionizing steam trap testing?

Is the steam trap working properly or is it defective? SONOTEC provides answers with the new SteamExpert app for the SONAPHONE digital ultrasound testing device.

With the SteamExpert app for the mobile testing device SONAPHONE, SONOTEC is expanding it‘s portfolio with a software application specially developed for steam trap testing. “Our latest app for the SONAPHONE digital test device accelerates the steam trap test workflow. Maintenance staff are guided intuitively through the entire testing process. A traffic light system can be used to immediately document on-site how the condition of the steam trap has changed. Thus, defective steam traps can be identified and replaced at an early stage. This not only saves time and money, it also increases operational reliability,” says Christian Schreiber, Business Unit Director for Preventive Maintenance. 

With the latest software application, SONOTEC completes its ultra-modern maintenance product portfolio. While the new mobile application is used directly on site on the testing device, all steam traps can be entered quickly and easily in advance on the PC, with threshold values defined and routes planned. The SONAPHONE DataSuite software makes it all possible. The central data hub also allows trend analyzing.

Steam traps that no longer close have a significant influence on the energy efficiency and economic viability of the steam system. Leaking steam traps lead to accelerated corrosion, affect processes and product quality and can, in the worst-case scenario, cause dangerous water hammers and unplanned stoppages. Regular surveys of the functioning of steam traps is therefore essential. Digital ultrasonic testing technology helps maintenance staff to identify defective steam traps at an early stage and to replace them. Depending on the design, a functioning trap opens and closes continuously or intermittently and generates characteristic ultrasonic signals. For the collection of these high frequency signals, SONOTEC has developed the SONAPHONE digital ultrasonic testing device and the BS20 broadband ultrasound and temperature sensor. The modern handheld device enables maintenance personnel to test all types of trap during production and in loud environments.

In addition to testing condensate drains, the mobile testing device can also be used for leak detection in compressed air systems, rolling bearing testing on standard machines and electrical inspection of air-insulated systems.