Tightness tests of objects can be carried out using various techniques. The choice of technique depends on the expected accuracy of the measurement or the magnitude of the leak – the most accurate leak testing technique is the use of a vacuum method with a mass detector. The test is carried out on an object filled with helium, at atmospheric or elevated pressure (up to 250 bar or more), placed in a vacuum chamber connected to a mass detector. The test can detect leaks of the order of 10-12 mbar*l/s. Using an additional sensor (a sniffer), it is possible to locate points/areas of leakage on the order of 10-7 mbar*l/s.
Devices
- PHOENIX L500i helium leak detector (range from 1000 mbar*l/s do <5*10-12 mbar*l/s)
- Haskel Ag-75 compressor, permitting helium pressures of over 400 bar to be created
- Test chambers: 300x300x500 mm; 800x800x1000 mm