Tube Leak Testing

Tube leak testing is a process used to identify leaks in heat exchanger tubes. Leaks in heat exchanger tubes can cause a variety of problems, including reduced efficiency, increased maintenance costs, and potential safety hazards.

General overview of most common methods for tube leak testing:

• Hydrostatic Testing: This method involves filling the heat exchanger with water and pressurizing it to a specified level. Any leaks in the tubes will be detected by the presence of water outside of the tubes.
• Pneumatic Testing: This method involves pressurizing the heat exchanger with air or another gas and then checking for leaks using a leak detector or soap solution.
• Helium Leak Testing: This method involves filling the heat exchanger with helium gas and then using a sensitive detector to check for leaks. Helium is often used because it is a very small molecule and can easily penetrate even the smallest leaks.
• Eddy Current Testing: This method uses electromagnetic fields to detect flaws or cracks in the tubes.
• Ultrasonic Testing: This method uses high-frequency sound waves to detect cracks or defects in the tubes.
• Tube leak testing is a critical part of heat exchanger maintenance and should be performed on a regular basis to identify and repair any leaks before they cause significant damage.