Vacuum testing is an integral method that identifies any faults in your system. It is a technique that improves the efficiency of your production line. It is crucial to be proactive when choosing the ideal method of vacuum testing. Here is a quick rundown of what you should know about this procedure and the various types available.

Vacuum Box

Vacuum box testing helps identify leaks in an area that cannot pressurize directly. The vacuum box works with a compressor to create a low or high-pressure vacuum. Using a soapy solution in the test area helps make leaks more visible when the solution creates bubbles. It is a widely used method that is quite efficient in detecting leaks and defects in packages or containers.

Some of the top reasons that make vacuum box testing the best method include the following:

• Provides instant results and helps to notify you of any potential leaks
• Quite seamless to incorporate
• Possible to inspect large areas while keeping costs minimal
• Relatively easy to identify even small leaks
• Need to access one side of the surface you are testing

Helium Vacuum

The method employs a helium sniffer probe to detect leaks in an internally-evacuated container. For this test, spraying a tracer gas on the package's exterior helps identify any potential leaks. The gas of choice in this technique is helium since it can easily infiltrate through the available leaks or defects. The leak detector detects any penetration of the helium gas. The method is quite efficient in identifying the specific location of the leaks.

Some of the reasons you should consider the helium vacuum testing method include the following:

• Pretty sensitive and helps to identify leaks quickly
• Entirely accurate in the detection of leaks
• High repeatability
• Cost saving

Pressure Rise

The pressure rise test is another alternative method of detecting leaks. The process involves plotting the vacuum level in contrast to the time after achieving vacuum and separating the system. If there is a leak, the final curve is a straight line. The method assumes that if a leak is present, the amount of gas flowing through the system in a specific period will tend to remain the same.

Some of the top reasons why the pressure rise system is a suitable method include the following:

• It is a speedy procedure for identifying any leaks
• Useful for areas with high test pressure

Vacuum Decay

Vacuum decay testing is an easy method of establishing the presence of leaks in containers. The technique involves placing the container in a tightly fitted chamber. Evacuating the chamber is next to achieving a certain level of vacuum. Then, a sensor is used to identify the vacuum level over time. If there is a presence of leaks, the pressure will rise in the chamber.

Some of the pros of the vacuum decay testing method include the following:

• It is possible to detect even small leaks
• You can conduct the test in vacuum or pressure environments
• It is a simple yet very efficient leak-detection method

Key Takeaway

Vacuum testing procedures help to highlight any leaks or malfunctions in packages, containers, or other systems. These methods are helpful even in identifying the specific location of the leaks. The procedures will help you save time and money since you have an accurate location of leaks and can tend to them accordingly before things get out of control. You can use multiple techniques in your production lines, such as vacuum box testing, helium vacuum, pressure rise, and vacuum decay. The selection method depends highly on available resources, your needs, and the costs.

At Seal-Check, we have all the expertise you need regarding vacuum testing procedures. Don't hesitate to contact us today to learn more about what we can offer.