UV illumination aids leak detection

The image portrayed today when it comes to fixing either a car or commercial vehicle is that of a technician equipped with computer software diagnosing engine faults. While there is no doubt diagnostic works is key to many vehicle faults there is no software to find a leak with an engine or transmission. This has to be done the good old fashioned way.

While vehicle manufacturers have improved their engineering standards to minimise leaks, you only have to look at a car park to see oil stains and other fluids on the tarmac.

The four common sorts of leaks are Oil, Coolant, water and Air conditioning. With traditional methods of detection you may be able to spot big leaks, but the smaller leaks still go undetected, annoying any customer who has been told the leak is fixed.

UV leak detection provides the best solution. It is quick and easy, low cost, and works and discovering big and small leaks but also highlighting invisible leaks such as air conditioning gas.

To track down the leaks, an appropriate UV fluorescent fluid is added to the system in question (not brakes, it should be noted) and the engine, aircon system or whichever system is suffering leakage is run or pressurised so that fluid will emerge from whatever leaks are present. Shining a UV lamp all around possible leakage points then quickly reveals all the leaks because they glow brightly where the UV light encounters the fluorescent additive.

To help mechanics and technicians Ring Automotive has designed the RIL3100, an inspection lamp together with a range of UV dyes to detect automotive leaks in automotive oils and fuels, coolant systems, air conditioning systems and surface water leaks.
The lamp is an addition to Ring’s award winning range of inspection lamps. It combines a massive 1000 Lux Inspection lamp with a `UV lamp and a LED torch function, making it an ideal all in one solution to a mechanics portable lighting needs and UV leak detection.

A powerful magnet on the base and two hooks on the back allow for hands free working to really get at the leak area to fix or replace. With an impact rating of IK08 it has been designed to with stand the heavy knocks possible in a workshop, making it a durable, long lasting lamp.

In conjunction with the lamp Ring has also launched 4 UV dyes to be used with the RIL3100. The dyes are simple to use and are packaged in single measure bottles. The mechanic simply needs to add the dye into the system being tested and leave to blend in the engine component for 20mins. The UV function on the RIL3100 inspection lamp should then be used to look for a fluorescent glow which indicates a leak. Once the leak has been identified and repaired the RIL3100 can be used again to ensure the repair has been successful. The dye is safe to leave in the system and can be used for future tests.

For more information contact Stronglines Autoparts on 01 4624631.