Electric spark leak detector(also known as electric spark detector) is a non-destructive testing equipment, whose core function is to detect the continuity of non-conductive coatings (such as anti-corrosion coatings, enamel, plastics, etc.) on the surface of metal substrates, quickly identify small defects such as pinholes, bubbles, cracks, and leakage points in the coatings, and widely used in quality control of anti-corrosion projects such as pipelines, storage tanks, and pressure vessels, to avoid substrate corrosion caused by coating damage, safety accidents, or shortened equipment life.
The electric spark leak detector emits direct current or pulsed high voltage through a high voltage probe, forming an electric field between a conductive substrate (such as metal) and a non-conductive coating (such as epoxy coal tar, fiberglass). When there are defects in the coating (such as pinholes and cracks), high-voltage electricity will penetrate the air gap, generate spark discharge, and trigger the sound and light alarm device to locate the defects. The core logic is:
Defect identification: When the coating is too thin, leaks metal, or has micropores, the resistance value and air gap density decrease, making it susceptible to high-voltage breakdown.
Signal feedback: Spark discharge generates pulse signals, and the alarm emits sound and light signals to alert the operator.
Safety operation specifications:
Before testing, it is necessary to confirm that the substrate is reliably grounded (grounding resistance ≤ 4 Ω) to avoid high voltage accumulation and electric shock;
Operators are required to wear insulated gloves and shoes, and are prohibited from holding probes in contact with exposed metal (to prevent high-voltage electric shock);
During equipment operation, non operators are prohibited from approaching (high-voltage electric fields may affect surrounding electronic devices).
Equipment maintenance:
Portable devices need to be charged regularly (to avoid battery depletion), and recharged once a month when not in use for a long time;
The probe needs to be regularly inspected (such as whether the brush probe is worn or the roller is stuck), and replaced promptly if damaged;
Regularly calibrate the accuracy of high-voltage output (can be sent to third-party testing institutions to ensure accurate testing results).