When should the SONAPHONE be used, and when is the SONASCREEN 2 more suitable?

The appropriate testing device depends on the application, the type of sound signal, and the required inspection result.

Leak detection

Both the SONAPHONE and the SONASCREEN 2 can locate leaks in compressed air, gas, and vacuum systems.

The SONAPHONE is particularly suitable for:

• targeted inspection of individual components,
• detailed inspection of difficult-to-access test points,
• assessment and documentation of individual leaks,
• recurring inspection routes,
• quantitative estimation of compressed air losses using LeakExpert.

The SONASCREEN 2 is particularly suitable for:

• quickly inspecting larger system areas,
• displaying several leaks simultaneously,
• visually locating sound sources directly in the camera image,
• inspections from greater distances.

Electrical inspection

Both devices can detect airborne ultrasonic signals generated by electrical partial discharges.

The SONAPHONE with the BS10 or BS30 is suitable for targeted inspections and acoustic evaluation of individual test points. The BS30 parabolic airborne sound sensor supports localization from greater distances.

The SONASCREEN 2 is suitable for obtaining a quick visual overview of electrical systems. Sound sources are displayed directly in the optical image. The partial discharge mode provides additional functions for analysis and documentation.

During all inspections of electrical systems, the specified safety distances and operational safety regulations must be observed.

Bearing, machine, and lubrication inspection

For bearing, machine, and lubrication inspections, the SONAPHONE with a structure-borne sound sensor is used.

Suitable sensors include:

• the BS20 for mobile measurements with interchangeable waveguides and additional temperature measurement,
• the BS40 for temporary, recurring, or permanently coupled structure-borne sound measurements.

The SONASCREEN 2 detects airborne sound and is not designed for direct coupling to a machine. The SONAPHONE is therefore the appropriate solution for conventional structure-borne sound measurements.

Steam traps and valves

The SONAPHONE with the BS20 is suitable for inspecting steam traps and valves.

The sensor detects structure-borne sound and also measures the surface temperature. In combination with the SteamExpert app, steam traps can be inspected and documented using a structured workflow.

The SONASCREEN 2 is not designed for this type of directly coupled structure-borne sound inspection.

Large-area inspections

When a larger system area needs to be inspected quickly for several airborne sound sources, the SONASCREEN 2 is particularly suitable. The acoustic image provides a rapid overview without requiring every possible sound source to be inspected individually with a sensor.

Recurring measurements and trend analysis

The SONAPHONE is suitable for regularly repeated measurements at defined test points. Measurement points can be organized, inspection routes can be completed, and measurement data can be compared over time.

Summary

• SONAPHONE: targeted inspections, structure-borne sound measurements, recurring inspection routes, and detailed assessment of individual test points.
• SONASCREEN 2: rapid imaging of larger areas and visual localization of several airborne sound sources.

Depending on the inspection task, the two devices can also be used consecutively: first the SONASCREEN 2 for a rapid overview, followed by the SONAPHONE for detailed inspection of individual test points.