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Introduction
Liquid dripping from cars is one of the most alarming concerns. Fuel is highly flammable, and a spark can light it all on fire. In the past, detection of leakage could be time-consuming and complex. With the invention of microscope fluorescence adapters and water tracing dyes, detection has become more convenient and affordable. And more critically, they are equipped with a higher level of reliability than other leak detection tools. Accordingly, they have become the most frequently adopted measures in leak detection nowadays.
Where do leaks exist?
To understand how the microscope fluorescence adapter and water tracing dye have played a mainstream role in leak detection, we should first understand the components of the air conditioning system (AC system). An AC system mainly contains a compressor, a refrigerant, and a condenser. Leaks can exist in all these components due to the deterioration of joints, pipes, and fittings. For instance, a refrigerant leak can occur anytime in the air conditioning process. Under the combined effect of damage and moisture, the nasty corrosive acids will erode the seals and components, resulting in a leak. The refrigerant will escape through the leak and stress the system. Sharp metal particles can freely go around the system as a result of refrigerant contamination. This lowers its cooling performance and further damages the components. In addition, due to the presence of moisture, mold and mildew can form and interfere with the operation.
Types of Leaks
There are several common types of leaks in a car, specifically, oil leaks, brake fluid leaks, antifreeze leaks, power steering leaks, and water leaks. Different types of leaks are often presented with different types of characteristics. For example, an oil leak is represented by a dark brown or yellow puddle underneath the car, while you can find a clear and odourless fluid underneath the car with a water leak. By categorizing the types of leaks, it is easier to identify the cause and avoid them in the future.
How to detect the leaks?
Realizing the impacts and types of leaks, leak detection becomes a vital step in car repair. A UV lamp with a microscope fluorescence adapter is often teamed up with the water tracing dye. Take the SL3100 water tracing dye from Sunlonge as an example, it is a concentrated water-soluble dye with fluorescein disodium salt in a compound of water and glycol solvent system. Before adding it to the system, it can be mixed with water or antifreeze fluid in a ratio of 1:3000 to 1.2:3000 and 1.2:3000 to 1.5:3000 respectively. After adding it to the system, it can start running to enable the circulation of the dye. A UV lamp with a microscope fluorescence adapter can then be applied and highlight the source of the leak precisely. Given the excellent fluorescence characteristics of the dyes, the leaks can be illuminated even in a high pH environment. The dye can remain in the system infinitely and create no interference with its performance.
Advantages of Microscope Fluorescence Adapters and Water Tracing Dyes
In the old days, leak detection was always an annoying procedure that required a lot of labour and money. However, thanks to the development of microscope fluorescence adapters and water tracing dyes, it is now safe and easy. The downtime and operation costs are greatly reduced. Additionally, they allow the identification of undetectable leaks with other options. They can trace the leaks that are even smaller than 1/8 oz. per year. The high accuracy verifies repairs and eliminates the risk of reworks. Correspondingly, they are an ideal choice for preventive maintenance and quick diagnostics, thereby, they are commonly applied and approved by plentiful worldwide automotive manufacturers.
Conclusion
Car leaks can be a warning of several severe incidents. Leak detection in an AC system therefore becomes a necessary step in car repair and maintenance. Due to its countless benefits, the combination of UV lamps equipped with microscope fluorescence adapters and water tracing dyes has been the most frequently adopted measure in leak detection, including car leaks and numerous other forms of leaks, in particular, sewage system leaks, toilet tank leaks, and illegal sewer connections.
