Which sensors are available for the SONAPHONE and which sensor is suitable for which application?

The SONAPHONE can be used with different airborne and structure-borne sound sensors. The appropriate sensor depends on the type of ultrasonic signal to be detected and the accessibility of the measurement point.

The current sensor portfolio includes:

• BS10 – Broadband airborne sound sensor
• BS30 – Broadband parabolic sensor
• BS20 – Broadband structure-borne sound and temperature sensor
• BS40 – Broadband structure-borne sound sensor

BS10 – Airborne sound sensor for universal inspection tasks

The BS10 detects ultrasound propagating through the air.

Typical applications include:

• leak detection in compressed-air, gas, and vacuum systems,
• electrical partial discharges and insulation damage,
• tightness testing in combination with an ultrasonic transmitter.

The BS10 has a specified range of up to 8 m. Interchangeable attachments allow the sensor to be adapted to different inspection tasks.

An integrated target laser and LED light support precise localization of the ultrasonic source.

BS30 – Airborne sound sensor for greater distances

The BS30 is a highly directional parabolic sensor for precise detection of airborne ultrasound from greater distances.

Typical applications also include:

• leak detection,
• electrical partial discharges and insulation damage,
• tightness testing using an ultrasonic transmitter.

Its parabolic reflector and high directivity make the BS30 particularly suitable for more distant or difficult-to-access ultrasonic sources.

The specified range is up to 35 m.

A target laser and red/green dot sight support alignment with the sound source.

BS20 – Structure-borne sound and temperature

The BS20 is coupled directly to a machine, valve, or other test object and detects structure-borne ultrasound.

Typical applications include:

• machine and bearing inspection,
• monitoring of lubrication condition,
• steam trap testing,
• valve inspection.

Different waveguides are available for different measurement points.

The BS20 additionally features an integrated infrared temperature sensor with an object temperature measurement range of −70 °C to +380 °C.

BS40 – Structure-borne sound sensor for reproducible measurements

The BS40 is used for condition monitoring of machines, systems, and processes.

It is particularly suitable for:

• recurring comparative measurements,
• trend measurements,
• machine and bearing monitoring,
• semi-stationary measurements.

The sensor can, for example, be attached to flat or curved magnetic surfaces using a magnetic base.

For defined or semi-stationary measurement points, coupling via a UNF 1/4"-28 screw connection is also possible.

Which sensor should be used?

As a simplified guide:

• Ultrasound propagates through the air: BS10 or BS30
• Measurement from a greater distance: BS30
• Structure-borne sound on machines, bearings, or valves: BS20 or BS40
• Additional temperature measurement required: BS20
• Reproducible recurring or semi-stationary structure-borne sound measurement: BS40

The final sensor selection should also take the specific inspection task, accessibility of the measurement point, and required measurement conditions into account.