Transducer Problems; Wetted Transducer Problems - GE AquaTrans AT868 User Manual

September 2004

Transducer Problems

Wetted Transducer
Problems
6-8
Ultrasonic transducers are rugged, reliable devices. However, they
are subject to physical damage from mishandling and chemical
attack. Clamp-on transducers are also subject to installation variables
such as physical misalignment and faulty coupling to the pipe on
which they are mounted.
Because transducer problems are largely dependent on the type of
transducers used, wetted or clamp-on, the following list of potential
problems is grouped according to transducer type. Contact the factory
if you cannot solve a transducer-related problem.
1. LEAKS: Leaks may occur around the transducer and/or the flowcell
fittings. Repair such leaks immediately. If the leaking fluid is
corrosive, carefully check the transducer and cables for damage,
after the leak has been repaired.
2. CORROSION DAMAGE: If the transducer material was not
properly chosen for the intended application, the transducers may
suffer corrosion damage. The damage usually occurs either at the
electrical connector or on the transducer face. If corrosion is
suspected, remove the transducer from the flowcell and carefully
inspect the electrical connector and the transducer face for
roughness and/or pitting. Any transducer damaged in this manner
must be replaced. Contact the factory for information on
transducers in materials suitable for the application.
3. INTERNAL DAMAGE: An ultrasonic transducer consists of a
ceramic crystal bonded to the transducer case. The bond between
the crystal and the case or the crystal itself may be damaged by
extreme mechanical shock and/or temperature extremes. Also, the
internal wiring can be corroded or shorted if contaminants enter
the transducer housing.
4. PHYSICAL DAMAGE: Transducers may be physically damaged by
dropping them onto a hard surface or striking them against another
object. The transducer connector is the most fragile part and is
most subject to damage. Minor damage may be repaired by
carefully bending the connector back into shape. If the connector
can not be repaired, the transducer must be replaced.
IMPORTANT:
Transducers must be replaced in pairs. Refer to
Chapter 2, Programming Site Data, to program the
new transducer data into the meter.
If the instructions in this section fail to resolve the problem, contact
the factory for assistance.
Diagnostics