Heavy Equipment
The two most widely used leak testing techniques used in the Heavy Equipment and Agriculture Equipment sector are Pressure Decay and Mass Flow.
Pressure Decay Testing
Pressure Decay testing is widely used for Heavy Equipment testing due to its low cost, test efficiency and accuracy. Pressure decay is a volumetric/volume dependent test. This method involves pressurizing the system or component and monitoring for an excessive drop in pressure over a specific test period. User-defined decay limits are referenced to pass or fail the part being tested. Pressure decay is particularly effective for testing engine castings, coolant passageways and hydraulic systems due to their stable dead volumes.- Large testing range, from vacuum to high-pressure.
- Instrument setup and use is simple/straightforward, eliminating confusion during day-to-day operation.
- Excellent value, low cost of ownership.
- Good repeatability, builds confidence.
- Can test for decay loss (<.005 PSI in 10 seconds, etc.) or a volumetric leak rate (20 sccm, etc.).
Mass Flow Testing
Mass Flow testing is also frequently used in conjunction with pressure decay, especially if the internal dead volume of the test piece varies or is elastic. Mass flow is also preferred for leak rates over 1,000 sccm. Mass flow is a volume independent test, unlike pressure decay, where the internal dead volume is calculated to determine the leak rate. With mass flow the amount of “replacement air mass” is measured to determine the leak rate.- Fast, accurate results.
- Simple setup. No calibration or master part needed.
- Great value, low cost of ownership.
- Peace of mind. Mass flow can be used on products of varying sizes, leaks or flow rates.
- Less affected by temperature (test part or plant environment).
- Ideal for larger internal volume assemblies or elastic parts such as headlights.
From complex Seal Tooling to Air Leak Detection Equipment, Manual Leak Test Stations, and Automated Leak Test Machines, you can count on LeakMaster to provide expert advice and robust leak testing solutions for your diesel or heavy equipment application.