New & Noteworthy
New Technology Shortens Cycle Time for Leak Testing
Leak testing is an essential part of the manufacturing process for a variety of products, ranging from cardiac pacemakers to automotive radiators.
Compared with, say, screwdriving, leak testing is among the more time-consuming processes on an assembly line, especially if the product being tested is relatively large. Testing time can vary from a few seconds for small assemblies up to several minutes for larger ones, and that can create a bottleneck on the assembly line.
Now, one supplier of leak test instruments has come up with an innovative way to reduce cycle times and make the process more efficient. Read about that and other new leak testing technologies in this month’s “New and Noteworthy.”
Instrument Shortens Leak Testing Cycle Times
The ATEQ Early Decision Tool (EDT) is a breakthrough technology that enhances leak test speed, accuracy and reliability by analyzing pressure conditions early in the test cycle. This results in faster decisions, reduced waste, and up to 50 percent shorter test times.
The EDT is a software feature built into select ATEQ leak testers, including the F620 and F670 models. By monitoring real-time pressure data from the beginning of the cycle, the system determines whether a part passes or fails—before the full test is completed.
With multiple micro-test sequences, the EDT can instantly reject leaking parts, approve good parts early, and continue testing only when necessary. Initially, the tool enters a learning mode, in which it records data from thousands of parts to create performance benchmarks. In production mode, it uses this data to make decisions at each substage. If the result falls in a safe zone, the part is accepted immediately. If not, the cycle continues until enough certainty is reached.
In addition to boosting test speed, this predictive approach adds an extra layer of quality assurance through conformity parameters that account for variables like temperature shifts or external airflow.
Looking for quick answers on assembly and manufacturing topics? Try Ask ASM, our new smart AI search tool. Ask ASM
See this company at The ASSEMBLY Show Oct. 21-23 in Rosemont, IL.
ATEQ Corp.
https://atequsa.com
Image courtesy of Z-axis Inc.
Leak Tester Is Versatile, Precise
Large and versatile, the Z8 is designed for precision automated leak testing. Featuring an intuitive 8-inch touch screen and configurable testing options, the Z8 delivers accurate, repeatable results for electronics, medical devices and automotive components.
Its modular design supports upgrades and customization, making it easy to adapt as production needs evolve. The instrument stores 100 test programs. It complies with CE, ISO 9001, REACH and RoHS standards. It can run up to four test ports, sequentially or concurrently. It has a high sensitivity (test resolution of 0.00001 psi), thanks to a low internal volume, 32-bit ADC, and fast scan rates. It can be equipped with up to four pneumatic valves for controlling tooling motion and fixtures.
Multiple communication options are possible, including Ethernet IP, TCP/IP, USB, RS232 and RS485. Electronic or manual high-pressure regulators handle pressures from 2 to 1,000 psi. The instrument can perform a variety of tests, including pressure decay, vacuum decay, occlusion, mass flow, burst, pressure cracking, chamber, and back pressure flow.
See this company at The ASSEMBLY Show Oct. 21-23 in Rosemont, IL.
Z-axis Inc.
www.zaxisinc.com
Image courtesy of Intertech Development Co.
Leak Tester for Medical Devices
The MED75y Series is designed for the high-speed leak testing of medical devices ranging in volume from several cubic centimeters to several liters.
Mass-flow test technology is cost-effective for high-speed leak testing. The mass-flow transducer is connected to both the reservoir and the test part. When this circuit is filled with air and isolated from the supply, any leak results in a flow of air from the reservoir to the test part through the transducer. The transducer output provides a direct measurement of leakage.
The instrument detects leaks from 0 to 20 sccm, and it can handle pressures from 0 to 100 psig. Repeatability and sensitivity of the transducer are both 0.05% F.S.D.
See this company at The ASSEMBLY Show Oct. 21-23 in Rosemont, IL.
Intertech Development Co.
www.intertechdevelopment.com
Image courtesy of Semblex Corp.
Leak Tester With Advanced Features
The LS-R902 leak test instrument has many advanced features, such as a full-color touch screen, a waveform measurement display, an automatic setup function for easy programming, and a USB port that allows engineers to migrate and import data from other devices.
Engineers can choose any of six display screens, including four measurement screens (standard, simple, waveform, and four channels). The items to be displayed can be customized.
On the setup menu, a large numeric keypad appears for easy configuration of test parameters. Test results can be automatically copied to a USB memory stick after each test. Test parameters and system data backup can also be stored.
It comes with self-checking functions for sensor sensitivity and air valve performance. K(Ve) can be set using a calibrator, leak master or auto-leak calibrator to convert the measured pressure into a flow rate. Engineers can input two sets of leakage limits for medium and small leakage on both the working side and the master side. For models that come with electropneumatic regulator, different test pressures can be set independently for each channel.
See this company at The ASSEMBLY Show Oct. 21-23 in Rosemont, IL.
Cosmo Solutions Technology Inc.
www.cosmosolutions.us
Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!
