Vacuum Leak Test machine is a non-destructive container closure integrity method for hermetically sealed packages. Vacuum collapse testing detects leaks in non-porous, rigid or flexible packaging. Manufacturers of packaging for the food, beverage, industrial and pharmaceutical industries use the vacuum collapse seal process to test packaging after filling and ensure product integrity. This procedure is important for the product to remain intact when received by the customers after weeks or months.
Manufacturers with time must upgrade machines or it will lead them slowly towards failure. Each new upgraded machine has its own potential advantages and one must ensure that the machines that they are using offers the best in the industry as it will help the manufacturer to stand out compared to others. Upgrading in regards to technology and machines is mandatory to remain prevalent in the industry. These updated machines will help you get results faster, smoother and with lesser effort compared to the previous one. The workers in the industry will also be interested in working with new machines as everyone likes learning new machine. Thus updating laboratory testing machines is crucial.
The vacuum leak test machine is equally important machine which needs to get upgraded with time with its newer and updated versions.
In this article we will answer some of the common questions asked regarding leakage, vacuum leak test, how the test is performed, what is the rate and many more such questions.
What is a vacuum leak?
What is a vacuum leak? A vacuum leak is a small hole in one or more parts of a system that allows gas to enter and exit uncontrolled. The leak rate depends on several factors, including hole size, gas type, and pressure differential (between the inside and outside of the system).
How is the vacuum leak test performed?
The Vacuum Leak Test Method is a non-destructive test for detecting leaks in non-porous, rigid or flexible packaging. Testing begins by placing the sample in a form-fitting, evacuated test chamber with an external vacuum source. The test chamber and dead space of the test system are then evacuated for a predetermined period of time, and a predetermined target vacuum level selected for testing is predetermined based on the type of test sample being evaluated. Absolute and/or differential pressure transducers are then used to monitor the increase in vacuum drop over a period of time. A pressure rise above a given pass/fail limit established using negative control indicates a tank leak.
Most tests can be run fairly quickly with very accurate results, but the larger the part, the longer the cycle time required to get accurate test results. Vacuum leak testing methods can offer many of the advantages that quality assurance can offer in hermetically sealed packages. Some of the biggest advantages are:
- It helps us to find out the leak rate based on pressure or vacuum
- The volume flow can be calculated
- The test is capable of reporting the smallest leaks also
- The test can be conducted in pressure or vacuum environment
- It is capable of reporting pressure or flow loss
Why leak testing is important
Leak testing confirms that a manufactured product meets predetermined specifications that allow a component or system to function as intended. This process is critical to ensuring product quality and end-user safety.
What is the purpose of vacuum testing?
Vacuum testing detects malfunctioning pumps and air leaks in door seals or tube fittings, checks the tightness of solenoid valves, and ensures that preset vacuum limits are achieved on each machine. , indicates that the sterilization autoclave is working properly.
How to perform a leak test?
A leak test is performed by immersing the part (usually a sandwich composite structure) in a hot water tank. The temperature of the water causes the air in the structure to expand, and if cracks or delamination are present, air bubbles will escape from the structure and will be readily detected by visual inspection.
What is the leak rate? A vessel’s leak rate indicates how much of the gas stream escapes through the walls of the vessel. However, it should be noted that the rate at which leakage occurs differs depending on the type of gas.