Proper maintenance not only extends the life of the leak detector but also ensures its measurement accuracy, reducing the likelihood of false positives or negatives. Below are some basic maintenance recommendations:
Regular Checks and Calibration
Calibration: Regularly calibrate the helium leak tester to ensure measurement accuracy. Calibration should be performed periodically, depending on the usage frequency and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Many helium leak detectors require a standard helium leak source for calibration.
Check Calibration Gases: Use appropriate calibration gases to ensure the data obtained during calibration is accurate. During calibration, make sure the gas purity and concentration meet the required standards.
Keep the Sensor Clean
Avoid Contamination: Leak detector sensors (such as mass spectrometer or thermal conductivity sensors) are sensitive to dust, oil, or other contaminants. Ensure that the operating environment is clean and avoid exposing the sensors to pollutants.
Clean the Sensors: Clean the sensor surface regularly according to the equipment manual. Use specialized cleaning tools and solvents, and avoid strong chemicals that may damage the sensors.
Keep the Equipment Dry
Moisture Prevention: Leak detectors, especially mass spectrometer-based helium detectors, are very sensitive to moisture. Avoid exposing the equipment to humid environments to prevent sensor moisture damage or circuit short-circuits.
Dry Storage: If the operating environment is humid, consider using desiccants or storing the equipment in a dry place when not in use.
Check Gas Supply and Pipelines Regularly
Check Gas Bottles: If the device uses external helium gas bottles, ensure the bottle pressure is normal and that the helium quality meets standards. Regularly replace helium bottles or check the remaining gas to avoid affecting performance due to supply interruptions.
Check Pipelines and Connections: Inspect all gas pipelines, connecting tubes, and joints for leaks or damage. Replace worn or damaged parts promptly to ensure stable gas supply.
Regularly Inspect Power and Circuit Systems
Batteries and Power Supply: For portable helium leak detectors, regularly check the battery or power supply performance to avoid low battery power, which could affect measurement accuracy. When not in use for extended periods, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.
Circuit Inspection: Ensure the instrument’s circuit system is intact, and that all displays, buttons, and sensors are functioning properly.
Software Updates and Maintenance
Software Updates: Some modern leak detectors are equipped with software interfaces. Regularly check for new firmware or software versions and update the software as needed to improve performance and add new features.
Fault Diagnosis: When the instrument malfunctions, use the software for self-diagnostics to promptly identify and resolve issues.
Regular System Testing
Test System Sealing: Regularly perform functionality checks on the detector de vazamento de estanqueidade de hélio to ensure it operates properly under normal conditions and accurately detects leaks.
Testing Records: Keep records of each test’s parameters and results, which will help trace issues in the future and track the device’s usage and performance over time.