Ultrasonic Leak Detector

What Is an Ultrasonic Leak Detector?

An ultrasonic leak detector is a non-destructive testing (NDT) instrument that identifies leaks by detecting the high-frequency sound waves — above 20 kHz — that escape from a pressurized or sealed system. When air, gas, or another fluid moves through a small opening, it creates turbulence that emits ultrasound inaudible to the human ear. A handheld ultrasonic leak detection receiver picks up this signal and converts it into an audible tone, letting the operator pinpoint the exact location of even the smallest leak.

Unlike soap bubble tests, hose tests, or chemical sniffers, ultrasonic leak detection works in any weather, requires no shutdown of the system in many cases, and detects leaks from a distance — making it the fastest and most reliable inspection method for ships, offshore platforms, and industrial facilities.

Cygnus Ultrasonic Leak Detection Equipment

Our complete range of ultrasonic leak detection equipment is built for two core applications: marine tightness testing and industrial leak surveying. Every unit ships with a transmitter, receiver, headphones, and a rugged carry case — ready for fieldwork from day one.

Cygnus Hatch Sure — Ultrasonic Tightness Tester

The Cygnus Hatch Sure is a lightweight, user-friendly ultrasonic tightness tester designed to locate leaks and identify failures in sealed compartments. It uses a powerful transmitter placed inside the compartment and a directional receiver microphone on the outside to pinpoint where ultrasound escapes — confirming weathertight and airtight integrity in minutes.

Best for: Cargo holds, fire suppression compartments, refrigerated containers, watertight doors, and industrial enclosures.

Cygnus Hatch Sure for Ships | Marine Ultrasonic Leak Detector

The Cygnus Hatch Sure for Ships is our ABS type approved marine ultrasonic hatch cover tester, accepted by all major P&I clubs and classification societies. Specifically engineered for the demanding requirements of cargo ship surveys, it allows a single surveyor to test full hatch covers, side doors, bow doors, and access hatches in any weather — including sub-zero temperatures.

Best for: Bulk carriers, oil tankers, container ships, general cargo vessels, and pre-loading surveys.

Hatch Sure Accessories

A full range of accessories supports every Hatch Sure deployment — including tripod brackets with Velcro, telescopic extensions for hard-to-reach areas, replacement inspection microphones and foam covers, BNC adapters, neckband headphones, and NiMH rechargeable battery sets with the KH980 battery charger. Every accessory is engineered to OEM specification and ships from authorized service centers worldwide.

Applications: Where Cygnus Ultrasonic Leak Detectors Are Used

Marine & Shipping | Ultrasonic Hatch Cover Tester

The ultrasonic hatch cover tester is the industry-accepted method for verifying weathertight integrity under SOLAS, the International Code on the Enhanced Programme of Inspections (ESP Code), and ICLL requirements. Cargo wetting damage is one of the largest claim categories for P&I insurers, and hatch cover testing with the Hatch Sure provides documented, repeatable proof that compartments are sealed before loading.

Watertight Door Testing

The Hatch Sure is equally effective as a watertight door tightness testing equipment solution. It identifies seal deformation, frame misalignment, and gasket failures on watertight bulkhead doors, weathertight side doors, and access hatches — all without flooding the compartment.

Industrial Compressed Air Systems |Compressed Air Leak Detector

In industrial plants, the same Cygnus technology functions as a compressed air leak detector. Compressed air leaks waste up to 30% of system output, driving up energy costs and overworking compressors. The Hatch Sure quickly identifies leaks in pipework, fittings, valves, regulators, and pressure vessels — even in noisy production environments.

Vacuum & Gas Systems

As an ultrasonic vacuum leak detector and ultrasonic gas leak detector, the Hatch Sure locates pressure and vacuum leaks in process pipework, gas distribution lines, and sealed enclosures. Because it senses sound — not gas concentration — it works regardless of the medium escaping.

HVAC & Refrigerant Applications

Service technicians use the Cygnus ultrasonic refrigerant leak detector approach for confirming leaks identified by sniffer detectors, locating leaks in noisy mechanical rooms, and verifying repairs on chillers, condensers, and refrigeration pipework.

How Ultrasonic Leak Detection Works

The principle behind every Cygnus ultrasonic leak detection system is simple but precise:

1. Transmitter — A high-output ultrasonic generator is placed inside the compartment, vessel, or system being tested. It fills the enclosed space with ultrasound at a controlled frequency above 20 kHz. 
2. Receiver — The operator scans the outside of the compartment with a directional microphone. Wherever ultrasound escapes — through a damaged seal, hairline crack, loose fitting, or worn gasket — the receiver picks it up. 
3. Pinpoint Location — The signal is converted into an audible tone through headphones and shown on an LED display. The closer the microphone gets to the leak, the louder and more focused the signal — allowing pinpoint accuracy down to millimeters. 

This portable ultrasonic leak detector approach is non-invasive, non-polluting, and produces no consumables or waste — making it a sustainable alternative to hose tests, smoke tests, and chemical leak detection.

Why Choose Cygnus

• ABS Type Approved — The Cygnus Hatch Sure for Ships meets the documented requirements of all major classification societies and is accepted by P&I clubs worldwide for cargo claim defense.
• ISO 9001 Certified — Every unit is manufactured in the UK under a fully certified quality management system.
• Engineered for Field Use — Ruggedized housings, IP-rated components, and intuitive controls mean technicians can operate Cygnus equipment with minimal training.
• 40+ Years of Expertise — Cygnus Instruments has specialized in marine and industrial NDT since 1983, with an installed base across 50+ countries.

Global Service Network — Authorized service centers handle calibration, repair, and spare parts — no matter where your fleet operates.

Ready to Order?

Browse the Cygnus ultrasonic leak detector range above, or speak directly with our US sales team for a customized quote, demonstration, or distributor referral.