Acoustic Emission Sensors
Advanced sensors for passive, continuous monitoring of cracks, leaks, and stress-induced structural changes
Overview
Acoustic emission (AE) sensors provide real-time insight into the structural health of materials and systems by detecting transient stress waves generated by crack growth, deformation, and other failure mechanisms. Unlike traditional ultrasonic testing, which requires active probing, AE technology passively listens for high-frequency events that occur within a stressed structure—making it ideal for continuous monitoring, early warning systems, and dynamic assessments in critical infrastructure.
This webpage explores the key features, configurations, and real-world applications of AE sensors, focusing on how Acoustic Testing Pro supports B2B clients across North America with advanced, reliable, and scalable acoustic monitoring solutions. Whether for pipeline integrity, pressure vessel safety, or research diagnostics, our AE technologies help clients identify problems early, reduce inspection costs, and extend asset lifespans.
Trusted AE Technology from Strategic Partners
In addition to offering our proprietary and partner-developed products for Acoustic Emission Sensors, Acoustic Testing Pro proudly integrates systems from Global Advanced Operations Tek Inc. (GAO Tek Inc.) and Global Advanced Operations RFID Inc. (GAO RFID Inc.). These collaborations ensure high-quality, high-sensitivity sensor systems with strong integration capabilities.
Core Components
Hardware Products (from GAO Tek & GAO RFID)
- GAO Tek Wideband AE Sensor
Detects high-frequency stress waves in metals, composites, and ceramics—suitable for crack formation and leak detection. - GAO Tek Resonant Acoustic Emission Probe
High-sensitivity sensor tuned to 150 kHz or 300 kHz for targeted monitoring applications in pressure vessels or pipelines.
- GAO Tek Low-Profile Surface AE Sensor
Ideal for installation in tight or curved locations—used for structural monitoring in aerospace and automotive systems. - GAO RFID AE Signal Logger & Transmitter
Captures AE events and transmits data wirelessly to cloud or SCADA platforms for real-time review and archival.
Software
- GAO Tek AE Event Analysis Software (AEEAS)
Provides event localization, signal characterization, waveform trending, and source triangulation.
- GAO RFID IoT Gateway & Middleware
Collects and transmits acoustic emission data from multiple locations for centralized monitoring and remote diagnostics.
- Passive Detection – No external excitation needed; sensors capture naturally occurring structural emissions
- Real-Time Monitoring – Supports 24/7 surveillance of structures under load, pressure, or environmental stress
- Event Characterization – Filters and classifies signals to distinguish between cracks, leaks, friction, or impact
- Multi-Sensor Array Capability – Enables triangulation and source location for large or complex structures
- High Environmental Tolerance – Resistant to industrial contaminants, vibration, and temperature extremes
- Works with standard AE DAQ systems, digital oscilloscopes, and field loggers
- Integrates with GAO Tek software, RFID-based systems, and IoT gateways
- Interfaces with SCADA, Modbus, or Ethernet-based industrial platforms
- Compatible with data analytics tools for AI-driven anomaly detection
- Structural integrity monitoring of bridges, towers, and tanks
- Pipeline leak detection and pressure vessel surveillance
- Crack detection during fatigue and cyclic load testing
- Stress corrosion monitoring in high-risk environments
- Oil & Gas and Petrochemical
- Civil and Structural Engineering
- Aerospace and Defense
- Power Generation and Utilities
- Heavy Manufacturing and Metal Fabrication
- Research and Development Laboratories
- ASTM E1316 – Standard Terminology for AE Testing
- ASTM E750 – AE Sensors and Instrumentation Guidelines
- ASME Section V, Article 13 – Acoustic Emission Examination
- ISO 12763 – AE Methods for Leak Detection
- CSA Z662 Annex M (Canada) – AE Monitoring for Pipelines
Case Studies
United States
Pipeline Crack Monitoring, North Dakota
A midstream pipeline operator implemented our AE monitoring system to detect stress-induced cracking along a high-pressure line. Real-time alerts prevented a critical failure and supported immediate mitigation, saving an estimated $250,000 in damage control.
United States
Aircraft Fuselage Testing, Kansas
An aerospace manufacturer embedded low-profile AE sensors in composite fuselage panels during fatigue testing. The system captured micro-crack activity before visible damage occurred, improving design safety and testing compliance.
Canada
Above-Ground Storage Tank Surveillance, Alberta
Our AE solution was installed on a 100,000-gallon chemical tank to monitor for bottom leaks and wall stress events. GAO RFID signal loggers transmitted real-time data to an off-site control room, helping the facility comply with CSA Z662 mandates.
Contact Us
Contact Us today for consultation, pricing, or to request a live system demo.