3 replies to this topic

[chemwiz]

Dear Friends,

For leak checking in positive pressure columns, we can use "Bubble Test", What about the negative pressure column?

What is the most used method to check leak in vacuum columns?


regards,
Chemwiz

[Zauberberg]

Hello chemwiz,

1) In order to check leaking flanges or pipe segments (barometric legs, for example), you can use a "shaving foam test". Believe it or not, it is a quite good method. Any in-leakage spot will "suck" the foam.

2) Another option is to take a sample of ejector system off-gas, which needs to be analyzed for oxygen content as quick as possible (to prevent incomplete or fake results, because of chemical reactions in the sample).

[chemwiz]

Dear Zauberberg,

Thanks for your reply. I would like to know , Is there any standard book which talks about "Leak Testing" procedure.

Do you have any idea about
1.Bell jar Method
2.Permeation Method
3.Tracer Gas Method
4.Vacuum Decay Method
5.Absolute Static Pressure Method
6.Vacuum Degas Method
7.Helium Gas Method

From where will i get details of all these methods. Which among the above methods used widely in industries.

regards,
Chemwiz

[Zauberberg]

Hello Chemwiz,

The methods I suggested are appropriate for "first-aid", field troubleshooting, when unit is on line. One leaking flange in our crude vacuum distillation unit is identified by foam test.
Other methods (helium, tracer) are much expensive and are a part of professional services provided by several companies. Tru-Tec is one of the best, as far as I have heard.