Simple, small, smooth, inert, and lighter than air, helium is especially useful to anyone that needs to make a small molecule transfer in their work process. This tiny and inert molecule is ideal for leak detection.
A tried and true technology, helium leak detection is a very accurate means of finding minute leaks in a myriad of systems.(See “Advances in Helium Leak Testing,” on p. 34 of this issue.)
When developing a system to deliver helium to an application, it is imperative that careful choices in equipment, such as regulators, valves, and piping, are made. A good regulator should be designed to pass an inboard helium leak-rate test of 1 x 10 to the minus 9 cc per second. This regulator should utilize components such as Teflon and Tefzel seats and stainless steel diaphragms. Packless diaphragm valves with Kel-F seats and multiple metal diaphragms are a good choice for use in this application as the helium leak integrity is 1 x 10 to the minus 10.
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