How Do You Use Helium To Detect Leaks?
Helium is an atomic element that most often consists of two protons and two neutrons. It is the second lightest element and exists as a monatomic gas in all but the most extreme conditions. Helium is highly effective in detecting leaks because it diffuses through solids three times faster than oxygen. Step 1 Calibrate the mass spectrometer leak detector before testing any system. Calibrated leak standards allow you to calibrate the leak detector to known leak rates. Most product leaks are at least 10^-6 cc. Step 2 Operate the leak detector to find the helium. Attach the test object to the leak detector and use a series of valves to evacuate the test object if it has an opening. Place sealed objects in the leak detector’s vacuum chamber. Step 3 Use a vacuum to remove helium from the leak. The concentration of helium in the spectrometer tube of the leak detector will rise sharply initially but then reach equilibrium as it enters at the same rate that it is pumped out. Step 4 Detect heliu
