Unterdruckprüfung

Unterdruckprüfung, also known as negative pressure testing or vacuum testing, is a method used to detect leaks in sealed systems or components. This technique involves creating a vacuum within the system or component and then monitoring for any pressure increase over a specific period. A rise in pressure indicates that air or another gas is entering the system through a leak.

The process typically begins by sealing the system or component to be tested. A vacuum pump is then used to evacuate the air, thereby lowering the internal pressure below atmospheric pressure. Once the desired vacuum level is reached, the vacuum pump is isolated from the system. A pressure gauge is connected to monitor the internal pressure.

The rate at which the pressure rises is a key indicator of the severity of any leaks. A rapid pressure increase suggests a significant leak, while a slow rise indicates a smaller leak. The duration of the test and the acceptable pressure rise are usually defined by specific industry standards or application requirements.

Unterdruckprüfung is widely employed in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical device manufacturing, and packaging. It is used to test fuel tanks, air conditioning systems, medical equipment, food packaging, and many other applications where airtightness is critical for safety, performance, or product integrity. The method is non-destructive, meaning it does not damage the item being tested.