Helium leak detectors are the ideal solution for leak detection and leak-tightness testing, offering the safest and most reliable results when searching for harmful gas leaks within a system. ATEC offers affordable helium leak detector rentals on products from leading manufacturers like Agilent, Pfeiffer, and Inficon.
What is a Helium Leak Detector?
Helium leak detectors, also referred to as HLD or mass spectrometers, locate and analyze leaks in systems or devices with helium. Helium is a small molecule that constitutes only about 5 ppm in the air, which is ideal for use as a tracer gas when detecting micro leaks in small systems like pipelines, underground tanks, and cables. Helium gas adds the benefit of being non-toxic, non-condensable, and non-flammable.
Helium leak detectors are known as the most sensitive leak detection technology on the market, allowing users to quickly locate the leak and determine its magnitude, shortening repair times.
Helium Leak Detector Test Methods
Depending on a part's working condition or environment, the testing method with a helium detector rental may differ. Leak testing is performed according to one of two primary methods: pressure testing, which tests “inside out,” and vacuum testing, which tests “outside in.”
Vacuum Testing
Vacuum testing requires all gas to be evacuated, whether through the HLD or a separate pumping system. The vacuum test consists of filling the system with helium to target areas suspected to have leaks. After administering helium with a spray probe, the leak detector should reveal the presence of a leak.
- Place a pressure chamber in a sealed container
- Test sample under pressure
- Connect to the leak detector
- Test gas (helium) within the chamber that is drawn off and passes through
Pressure Testing
Pressure testing (sniffer method) involves pressurizing the equipment under test (EUT) with helium, or a helium-based mixture of gasses, and then utilizing a sniffer probe connected to the leak detector. Also known as helium sniffing, the sniffer probe is used around the EUT to locate the leak. By using a probe, helium sniffer detection is best for locating smaller leaks. The method often requires more skill with a sniffer probe and relies on the user more than testing with a vacuum method.
- Pressure the chamber up with helium
- Pass through sniffer device at potential leak points
- The “sniffed” gas passes to a mass spectrometer to record any elevated helium levels
ATEC offers helium detector rentals designed to perform both methods.
Choosing Helium Leak Detector Rental
There are different types and variations of helium leak detectors available for rent depending on your testing needs.
Portable or Benchtop
When testing intricate pipelines and systems, renting a portable helium detector could be an ideal solution. Top manufacturers like Agilent and Inficon offer advanced helium leak testing with compact and durable instruments. When the EUT or system is in a cramped or enclosed space, the portable HLD offers increased functionality. The mass spectrometer will be fixed on helium detection and deliver pumping speeds and accuracy often reserved for larger units.
High or Low Volume Leak Testing
The best helium detector rental for a given situation could change depending on the gas and size of a leak. When testing and locating a large leak, a high pump rate would be more suitable. The low pump rate requires longer testing and more steps in the process. The leak rate of an EUT also changes depending on the gas within the system.
Reach out to an ATEC rental agent today to learn more about our helium leak detector options.