As we begin our article, first “Acoustic CameraLet’s define “.
acoustic camerais a technological device used to visualize sound waves. Thanks to this device, sound sources and acoustic problems in engineering applications can be detected. It displays sound waves as color maps on digital images through components such as a microphone array and optical camera. With this feature, the source and intensity of the sound can be determined easily and accurately. In the engineering sector, acoustic cameras have a wide range of uses, such as detection of leaks, partial discharge analysis, evaluation of machine vibrations and environmental noise measurements. Thanks to its high sensitivity and visualization capabilities, it plays a critical role in rapid fault detection and development of preventive maintenance strategies. These devices reduce the workload of engineers in sectors such as energy, oil and gas, industrial production and transportation, while making valuable contributions to safety and efficiency. As a result, acoustic cameras offer sectoral solutions at very diverse and critical points.
Many types of fault conditions (especially gas leaks and partial discharges) produces sound. Sometimes sounds can be heard, but more often they are ultrasonic; That is, their frequencies are often above the human hearing limit. By ‘listening’ to these sounds it is in principle possible to discover that a fault exists and to locate the fault by following the source of the sound. The principle by which acoustic imagers work is precisely based on technology.
acoustic cameras, to visually identify the source of the sound They are specially designed measuring devices. Essentially, they analyze the distribution of sound waves in space using an array of microphones and a camera. Thus, the direction, intensity and frequency of the sound are visualized on a heat map. The working steps are as follows.
Microphone Array
► Acoustic cameras usually contain between 10 and 200 microphones.
► Microphones are placed in a specific geometric pattern (e.g. circle, sphere, spiral).
► Each microphone detects the same sound wave at different times because the sound comes to each microphone through a slightly different path.
Time Delay Calculation (Time Delay)
► The difference in the time it takes for the sound to reach different microphones is used to find the direction of the source.
► The system calculates these time differences and determines where the sound comes from using the triangulation method.
This process is usuallybeamformingIt is done with an algorithm called “.
Beamforming
► Beamforming analyzes signals from microphones by focusing them in a specific direction.
► The computer calculates the sound energy in each possible direction and finds the direction from which the strongest sound comes.
► Thus, areas in the image where sound is intense are colored “red” and quiet areas are colored “blue”.
Merge with Image
► There is usually a camera in the middle of the microphone array.
► The sound intensity map is overlaid on this camera image
► Result: A colored heat map is obtained showing where the sound is coming from on the real image.
In this content, one of the most innovative solutions developed by Megger in this field, “MPAC128- Acoustic VisualizerWe will examine the device.
This acoustic imaging camera is ATEX certified and IP54 rated and offers non-contact detection from up to 120 meters away. With 128 microphones and a detection frequency of 2 to 48 kHz
MPAC128 provides optimum clarity in partial discharge and gas leak detection. The MPAC128-ATEX is ATEX certified for use in Zone 2 hazardous areas (II 3G Ex ic IIC T5 Gc) and is ideal for environments where explosive gases may be present.
Detection Capacity and Frequency Range:
► Frequency Range: It makes precise detections thanks to its wide frequency range between 2 and 48 kHz.
► Detection Distance: Effectively detects variables within the range of 0.3 to 120 meters.
► Optical Camera Resolution: Creates high resolution images with its 8 Megapixel camera.
► Screen Refresh Rate: With a 25 FPS refresh rate, it provides uninterrupted and fluid images without tearing.
Microphone Array and Field of View
► Number of Microphones: Provides precise detection of sound sources thanks to 128 microphone arrays.
► Field of View (FOV): It makes detailed analyzes with a wide field of view of 62° horizontally and 48° vertically.
Durability in Harsh Environments
► Operating Temperature Range: It works smoothly in temperature conditions between -20°C and +50°C.
► Protection Class: With the IP54 class certification on the product, full protection is provided against dust and splashes.
► ATEX Certificate: MPAC128-ATEX model provides safe use in working conditions with explosive gases, thanks to its internationally valid ATEX certification.
Gas Leak and Partial Discharge Detection
► Gas Detection: Detects leaks regardless of pressurized gas types.
► Leak Rate Measurement: Allows cost analysis of gas leaks.
► Phase Resolved Partial Discharge (PRPD): Classifies surface, suspension and corona discharge types.
Ease of Use and Technological Superiority
► Parameter Setting: Easy to use with user-friendly frequency and dynamic range adjustment.
► Focus Function: Reducing unwanted sounds in noisy environments.
► Ultrasonic Monitoring: The device makes ultrasonic sounds distinguishable.
Storage and Reporting Opportunities
► Storage: It offers users an expandable memory with SD and microSD card support.
► Reporting Software: User-friendly software that provides detailed analysis of the results obtained and exports them in an understandable format.
MPAC128 offers innovative yet reliable solutions in the field of engineering with its user-friendly structure, high performance and sensitivity level. Providing maximum efficiency in gas leak detection, partial discharge analysis and other extreme engineering applications, this product is at a level that will redefine industry standards.
Megger MPAC128 has managed to be one step ahead of its counterparts in acoustic imaging technology with its features. Its technical capacity, ease of use and durability in harsh conditions are the main factors that make it the industry leader. Here are the prominent features that differentiate MPAC128 from its competitors:
► Remote Detection Capacity
MPAC128 offers its users safe and precise detection with a viewing distance of up to 120 meters. While the viewing distance of equivalent devices generally cannot exceed 70 meters, MPAC128 comes to the rescue of engineers in hard-to-reach or dangerous areas thanks to its wide field of view. This product of Megger fills the gap in the industry and offers its users an innovative and effective solution.
► Frequency Range and Sensitivity
MPAC128 operates in a wide frequency range from 2 to 48 kHz, performing high-precision detections. Although some competing devices can reach higher frequency ranges (100kHz) at this point, noise and signal losses at high frequencies limit this advantage of competitors. MPAC128 offers optimum performance to its users without sacrificing critical signals to noise.
► Safety with ATEX Certificate
The MPAC128 – ATEX model has ATEX certification, ensuring safe use in environments with explosive gases. Thanks to this feature that is not available in most of its counterparts, MPAC128 is indispensable primarily for the oil, gas and chemical industries.
► High Optical Resolution
It differs from its competitors with its optical camera with 8 Megapixel resolution. While most devices on the market can offer resolution values between 5-7 Megapixels, MPAC128 provides detailed reporting thanks to clearer visuals. This feature takes users’ analysis and evaluation processes to the next level.
► Durability in Tough Conditions
MPAC128 can operate safely in the temperature range of -20°C to +50°C and is highly resistant to dust and splashes with its IP54 protection certificate. Compared to equivalent devices whose durability is limited to -10°C to +40°C, the MPAC128 represents a more reliable alternative for harsh industrial environments.
► Ultrasonic Monitoring and Noise Management
In noisy environments, the MPAC128 narrows the angle of the microphone array, reducing background noise and making ultrasonic sounds audible. Advanced noise management increases operational efficiency, especially in industrial facilities.
► Leak Rate Measurement and Reporting
MPAC128 calculates the rate of gas leaks and provides cost analysis to its users. In addition, thanks to its comprehensive reporting software, it allows users to evaluate the analysis results and easily export them. Thanks to this, unlike competing devices, it does not only determine the location of the leak.
► Phase Resolved Partial Discharge (PRPD)
MPAC128 can classify PD types such as surface discharge, suspension discharge and corona discharge. This feature, which is not available in competing companies’ variants, supports the user in making the right decisions and enables targeted maintenance strategies.
In addition to the features listed above, any technical malfunction that may occur is quickly resolved by providing technical service support in Türkiye for Megger devices.
Megger MPAC128 Acoustic Imager is designed to serve a wide range of sectors such as energy, industrial production, transportation, oil – gas and chemistry operating all over Türkiye. Appealing to a large target audience consisting of technical experts, maintenance planters, safety managers and decision makers, this product is the ideal solution to meet the efficiency and safety priorities of the sectors.
Sectors and User Profile
MPAC128 is perfectly suited to meet the operational needs of electrical engineers, company managers, purchasing departments and maintenance/test managers. It supports the security and resource saving-oriented strategies of businesses operating in provinces where the industry and energy sectors are concentrated.