UV tracer dyes

UV dye : the ultimate solution for leak detection and fluid tracing

UV dyes are fluorescent tracers used for leak detection and fluid flow monitoring across various industrial and environmental applications. Their strong reactivity to ultraviolet (UV) light allows immediate visualisation, making them an efficient and rapid solution for identifying anomalies in hydraulic circuits, pipelines, and cooling systems. Their ability to easily integrate with different fluids makes them an essential tool for professionals seeking to ensure the integrity of their infrastructures.

To activate fluorescence, use a 365 nm UV lamp.

What is a UV dye and how does it work?

A fluorescent tracer reactive to UV light

A UV dye is a fluorescent substance that emits a bright, visible glow when exposed to UV light. This reaction enables quick and precise identification of fluid flows or leaks within complex systems such as water networks, hydraulic circuits, industrial oils, and fuels. This type of tracer is highly appreciated for its ability to reveal faults without requiring dismantling or invasive intervention.

In field conditions, the LUX 60 UV lamp provides a remarkably sharp fluorescent effect.

Depending on its formulation, a UV dye may appear in several colours, including yellow, green, red, or blue. This colour diversity allows multiple circuits to be traced simultaneously without any risk of confusion between fluids. Some dyes are designed to mix with water-based solutions, while others are suitable for oils and hydrocarbons, ensuring maximum efficiency according to the application.

A reliable and fast leak detection method

Thanks to its strong visibility under UV light, fluorescent dye leak tracing enables rapid localisation of leak points without requiring destructive testing or complex interventions such as network shutdowns for smoke testing. This method is widely adopted in industrial maintenance and infrastructure management, where fast intervention is essential to prevent production downtime and minimise repair costs.

Its effectiveness lies in its ability to disperse evenly and adhere to affected surfaces, ensuring optimal traceability and easy identification of problem areas. Moreover, UV dyes provide a clear visualisation of fluid movement within complex networks—a valuable advantage for diagnosing issues in large-scale industrial systems.

Applications of UV dyes

Leak detection in plumbing systems

UV dyes are widely used to detect hidden leaks in plumbing networks. By adding a fluorescent tracer to water, leaks can be pinpointed under a UV inspection lamp, whether they occur beneath a sink, behind a wall, or under a concrete slab. This technique enables targeted repairs, avoiding unnecessary demolition work.

For localised testing, dye syringes offer great precision and convenience.

Pipeline and drainage network tracing

For drainage system inspections, UV dyes help map water pathways using inflatable pipe stoppers, identifying leaks or fractures in pipes. Their rapid dispersion and high visibility in low-light environments make them invaluable for water management professionals.

If a steady flow must be maintained, use a DN50 through-flow stopper.

Roof and terrace waterproofing tests

Flat roofs and terraces must be perfectly watertight to prevent long-term structural damage. Injecting UV dye into the drainage system allows verification of its integrity and detection of potential infiltration points. This non-invasive technique is increasingly adopted by building professionals for preventive diagnostics.

For PVC membranes, an injection nozzle simplifies the process.

Swimming pool leak detection

Using UV dyes in swimming pools is an effective method for detecting leaks in liners, joints, and pipelines. By adding fluorescent dye to the water and illuminating it with a UV lamp, it becomes easy to identify leakage points, even in hard-to-reach areas.

For poolside inspection, use the LUX 28 UV lamp for best results.

Automotive leak detection

In the automotive sector, UV dyes are widely used to detect leaks in cooling systems, air conditioning circuits, and fuel lines. Adding a small amount of tracer to the liquid allows instant identification of the leak source under UV light, significantly reducing diagnostic and repair time.

For optimal contrast, select UV COLOR Green.

Air conditioning and refrigeration systems

Both residential and industrial HVAC systems can suffer from refrigerant leaks that compromise performance. UV dyes offer a fast and reliable way to identify these leaks, preventing costly breakdowns and maintaining system efficiency.

These applications highlight the efficiency and versatility of UV dyes for leak detection and fluid tracing. Their use improves maintenance operations, prevents unnecessary losses, and optimises technical interventions across a wide range of industries.

Which type of UV dye should you choose ?

Water-soluble fluorescent tracers

These dyes are ideal for tracing potable water networks, sewers, and retention basins. They are commonly used to locate water losses and map hydraulic flows. Being biodegradable, they are environmentally friendly and compatible with most pipe materials (PVC, cast iron, steel). They are also used in groundwater monitoring and agricultural drainage systems.

In clear water, fluorescein powder remains a reliable classic.

UV dyes for oils and fuels

Specifically formulated for lubrication circuits and fuel tanks, these tracing dyes are miscible with hydrocarbons, allowing precise leak detection without altering fluid properties. Their high chemical stability makes them suitable for industrial environments with temperature and pressure variations. They are also used in heavy machinery and high-performance engines maintenance.

Fluorescent powders and dye tablets

Powdered and tablet-based fluorescent tracers offer a practical solution for occasional tracing tests and flow path detection in pipes. They are especially useful where adding liquid dye is not feasible. Their controlled dispersion allows gradual and precise monitoring, ideal for groundwater flow studies and stormwater basin performance testing. Some formulations are designed to remain visible even in low-light conditions, ensuring accurate observations.

For quick field tests, the 10-sachet pack is a convenient option.

Why choose Fluotracking UV dyes ?

Fluotracking offers a complete range of laboratory-tested UV dyes, such as UV COLOR Red and UV COLOR Yellow, rigorously evaluated for efficiency, visibility, and safety. Each formula is optimised for maximum brightness under UV light, ensuring precise tracing in both industrial and domestic environments.

Our stringent testing includes chemical stability analysis, compatibility with various liquids, and resistance to extreme conditions, guaranteeing consistent field performance and long-term reliability.

A wide range to suit every need

Whether you are a maintenance professional, industrial technician, or private user, Fluotracking provides a comprehensive selection of UV dyes adapted to all use cases. From water-soluble solutions to hydrocarbon-compatible formulas and fluorescent powders, each product is engineered for specific applications. We also offer biodegradable UV dyes for environmentally sensitive operations.

This extensive range ensures maximum flexibility, covering all scenarios from quick diagnostics to complex leak tracing studies.

Expert guidance and technical support

The Fluotracking team is at your service to help you select the UV dye best suited to your needs. Our specialists provide technical advice and best-practice guidance to optimise your tracing and detection operations. We also supply detailed usage guides to ensure efficient application and avoid common handling errors. Our customer support is available to answer your questions and assist you in making the right technical choices, guaranteeing a seamless user experience.

Fast delivery and reliable supply

Fluotracking is committed to fast shipping to meet urgent demands. All our UV dyes are available in stock, individually or in packs, ready for immediate dispatch. We work with trusted logistics partners to ensure secure and timely delivery. Thanks to our optimised stock management, we maintain continuous product availability, avoiding supply interruptions.

Save time with our LUX 60 + UV or LUX 28 + UV kits.

High quality at competitive prices

We offer high-quality UV dyes at competitive prices, ensuring the best value for money. By choosing Fluotracking, you benefit from uncompromising quality at controlled costs, allowing you to optimise tracing operations efficiently.

When UV detection is not suitable, try our smoke generators for air leak detection.

Fluotracking – Your Expert Partner in Fluorescent Leak Detection and UV Dye Tracing Solutions.