Lekkagetests

Lekkagetests are procedures used to determine whether a closed system or enclosure contains leaks and, if so, to estimate the rate at which it leaks. They are applied to verify product integrity, safety, and performance across industries such as packaging, automotive, electronics, medical devices, and construction.

Common methods include pressure decay tests, where the item is pressurized and the resulting pressure change over time is measured; vacuum decay tests, which monitor pressure rise or fall under vacuum conditions; and bubble tests, where a liquid is applied and leaks produce visible bubbles. More sensitive techniques use tracer gases, notably helium, detected by mass spectrometry or specialized sniffing instruments to quantify leak rates. Other approaches include acoustic or leak-location methods to identify the leak source.

Leak testing typically yields a leakage rate expressed in units such as Pa·m3/s, mbar·l/s, or equivalent, and is compared against predefined acceptance criteria. The choice of method depends on factors such as required sensitivity, test medium, geometry, and potential damage to the item. Tests may be performed during manufacturing, in quality control, or as part of field inspections.

Key considerations include ensuring test equipment calibration, controlling temperature and humidity, avoiding contamination, and selecting fixtures that do not introduce additional leaks. Standards and guidelines for leak testing exist across ISO, ASTM, EN, and other bodies, varying by industry and application.

Results of lekkagetests inform decisions on acceptance, repair, or retesting, and are typically documented to support quality control and traceability.