Vuotokoetta

Vuotokoetta is a procedure used to detect leaks in sealed systems by applying a controlled pressure and monitoring containment over a set period. The word is composed from Finnish vuoto "leak" and koetta "test". In typical practice, a component or vessel is sealed, pressurized with an appropriate medium (air, inert gas, or liquid), and observed for pressure decay or fluid escape. Depending on the method, tracer gases or dyes may be employed to locate leaks more precisely.

Applications span many industries, including plumbing, automotive and aerospace manufacturing, electronics enclosures, and medical devices. It is exercised as part of quality assurance during fabrication, installation, or post-assembly testing. Common variants include pressure decay tests, pressure rise tests, and vacuum decay tests; some tests use helium or other tracer gases to improve sensitivity. Results are compared against defined acceptance criteria or standards set by manufacturers or regulatory bodies.

Procedure considerations include proper system sealing, correct pressurization levels, temperature control, and adequate observation time. Test equipment may include pressure gauges, flow meters, helium sniffers, or thermal cameras. When leaks are detected, remediation is followed by retesting until pass criteria are met. Limitations include transient pressure changes, temperature effects, and potential test rig leakage that can affect outcomes.

See also leak testing, pressure testing, nondestructive testing.