Carrier-Gas Leak Testing for Functional Fluid Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional leak testing methods are inadequate for components containing functional fluids, particularly when sensitivity is limited, leading to potential hazards from small leaks and contamination, especially in medical vials and batteries.
Innovation Solution
A leak testing apparatus with a vacuum pump, carrier fluid, and fluid detection device that monitors fluid flow and pressure to detect leaks in components containing functional fluids, allowing early identification of leaks and contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional leak testing methods are used on components containing functional fluids, then the testing can be performed, but the sensitivity is limited and small leaks cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
A carrier gas is introduced as an intermediary medium to transport leaked functional fluid from the component to the detection device. The carrier gas flows through the component and any leaked fluid is carried along with it to the detector, enabling sensitive detection of small leaks that would otherwise be undetectable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical leak detection methods with a gas-phase transport and detection system. Instead of using mechanical means to detect leaks, the system uses carrier gas flow to transport leaked fluid to a sensitive detector, achieving much higher detection sensitivity
2Loss of time
If leak testing is performed before providing functional fluid, then early leak detection is possible, but the integrity state may change between testing and fluid provision
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by introducing carrier gas and establishing the detection system before the functional fluid is introduced into the component. This allows the component to be tested in its actual operational state with the functional fluid present, ensuring integrity state consistency while still achieving early leak detection
3Device complexity
If leak testing is performed with limited sensitivity, then the testing process is simple, but small leaks may go undetected causing contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier gas acts as a mediator that concentrates and transports even trace amounts of leaked functional fluid to the detection device. This intermediary system enables the detection of very small leaks that would otherwise be invisible, preventing contamination while adding controlled complexity to the testing apparatus
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances leak detection sensitivity, reduces contamination risks, and increases throughput by identifying leaks earlier and using a carrier fluid to facilitate detection of smaller leaks.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum pump (8) which is configured to reduce a pressure inside the chamber (6)
Implementation Method 2
a carrier gas flow is conducted through the chamber in order to supply the collected fluid component to the sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of leak testing a component 5 containing a functional fluid is disclosed. The method comprises positioning the component 5 in a vessel 4 that defines a chamber 6, reducing the pressure of the fluid in the chamber 6, supplying a carrier fluid to the chamber 6 and simultaneously pumping fluid from the chamber 6 using a fluid detection device 26, and using the fluid detection device 26 to monitor for the presence of the functional fluid.