Low Voltage Electronic Leak Testing

(Wet Conditions)

Depending on the site conditions, low voltage (wet method) electronic leak detection testing could be the best option when trying to determine if/where you have breaches. Honza Group Inc. will consult with you to see what method makes the most sense. Below is a brief description of the testing process.

Set-Up

A wire loop, to act as a conductor, is placed directly on the membrane/protection course. This wire loop is placed around the perimeter of the area to be tested and used to isolate any conductive penetrations.
One of the two leads from a power supply is connected to this wire loop conductor. The other lead is connected to the structural deck.
As a result, an electrical potential difference is created between the membrane surface, which is wet, and the structural deck, which is “earthed” or grounded – essentially producing two opposing electric plates.

Testing

A 16-probe receiver is placed on the wetted surface of the roofing/waterproofing membrane in an approximately 3’ x 3’ pattern.
If there are any breaches in the roofing/waterproofing membrane (electrical insulator), the specialized testing equipment will read the small electric current as it flows across the membrane surface and down through the breach. This will complete the circuit between the two electrically charged plates/fields.
Once the breach is located, it is marked on the membrane, photographed, and cataloged for reporting purposes.

Reporting

We generate and submit a detailed report of our findings, that includes general project information, noted site conditions (with photographs), breach photographs and measured locations. A digital drawing is submitted with the report that highlights the area(s) tested, with all breach locations plotted.

BUT WHY LOW VOLTAGE AND NOT HIGH VOLTAGE?

Both methods of testing are equally effective. Job site conditions ultimately dictate which method of Electronic Leak Detection should be utilized. From a practical standpoint, Low Voltage is used when the area to be tested is wet. There are some site conditions that limit the effectiveness of Low Voltage testing. Contact Honza Group, Inc. for a free consultation on which testing method will work best on your project.

Low Voltage ELD Projects

Kennedy Center, Washington D.C.

Downloadable Specifications

Low Voltage Quality Assurance Installation - Initial Testing Only

Waterproof Membrane Quality Assurance Testing (Low Voltage)

Adobe Acrobat Document 125.2 KB

Low Voltage Quality Assurance Installation - Future Testing

Waterproof Membrane Quality Assurance Testing (Low Voltage) + Future Testing

Adobe Acrobat Document 141.7 KB