Helium has the characteristics of high sensitivity, chemical stability and small molecules. Helium is usually used for leak detection in situations where high-precision detection of tiny leaks is required.
The principle and process of using helium for leak detection:
Characteristics of Helium
Small molecular size: Helium molecules are smaller than most gases and can penetrate through extremely small pores.
Chemical inertness: Helium is chemically very stable and does not react easily with other substances. It will not be reacted or contaminate other gases during the detection process.
High detection sensitivity: Helium can be accurately measured by highly sensitive instruments (such as helium mass spectrometers) during the detection process.
Wide range of applications: Helium leak test instruments are suitable for many different industries and applications, including vacuum systems, electronic equipment, gas containers, automotive, aerospace, nuclear energy and other fields.
Helium Leak Testing Process
Injecting Helium
During the testing process, helium is injected into the closed system or device being tested (such as a vacuum system, weld or pipe). Helium can be introduced into the test equipment via a vacuum pump or a gas injection device.
Leakage monitoring
After helium is injected, any small leak will allow helium to escape through holes, cracks or joints. Since helium is very permeable and can diffuse quickly, any leak will cause concentration changes in a short period of time.
Detecting Helium
Use a helium mass spectrometer leak detector to monitor for helium leaks. A helium mass spectrometer can detect helium very accurately by detecting the mass and ionization characteristics of the gas.
A helium mass spectrometer determines if there is a leak by identifying helium and measuring its concentration. When helium enters the instrument through a leak in the equipment, its concentration is detected and converted into leak data.
Leak location
If there is a helium leak in a device or system, the leak point can be located through local detection or scanning detection. For example, a helium detector can scan along the surface of the device to find the source of the leak. Through these methods, the specific location of the leak can be accurately found.
Application Examples
Vacuum systems: For example, testing spacecraft, particle accelerators or other equipment that requires a high vacuum environment.
Pipelines and containers: Used to detect small leaks in chemical reactors, gas containers, and pipeline connections to ensure the safe operation of equipment.
High-precision manufacturing: In the process of electronic components, semiconductor manufacturing, welding, etc., helium leak detectors can ensure the sealing and leak-free of products.
By injecting helium and using advanced detection equipment (such as helium mass spectrometers) to monitor leaks, tiny gas leaks can be accurately located. This is widely used in multiple industries to ensure the safety and reliability of equipment and systems.