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Leak Detection of Heat Exchanger
Using Helium Gas Service in Qatar

HEAT EXCHANGER

A heat exchanger is a device that transfers thermal energy from one fluid to another, or from a solid surface to a fluid, without the fluids or solid surfaces coming into direct contact with each other. This allows for the transfer of heat energy without mixing the fluids or solids, which can be useful in a variety of industrial, HVAC, and automotive applications. Different types of heat exchangers include shell-and-tube, plate, and finned-tube heat exchangers.

HELIUM LEAK DETECTION FOR HEAT EXCHANGERS

Helium leak detection is a common method used to detect and locate leaks in heat exchangers. The process involves introducing a small amount of helium into the system and then using a helium leak detector to locate any points where the helium is escaping. This can help to identify and repair leaks in the heat exchanger before they cause damage or result in a loss of efficiency. It is important to note that Helium is non-toxic, non-flammable and chemically inert. It is also one of the smallest atoms, making it a good choice for detecting small leaks.

PROCEDURE

  1. The heat exchanger is evacuated and purged with helium to remove any air and other gases.
  2. A small amount of helium is introduced into the system.
  3. A helium leak detector is used to scan the heat exchanger for leaks. The detector uses a sensor to detect the presence of helium and can pinpoint the location of the leak.
  4. Once the leaks are located, they can be repaired or sealed to prevent further helium leakage.
  5. After the repair, the system is evacuated again and tested for leaks to ensure that the repair was successful.

Applications

  1. HVAC: Helium leak detection is used to test the integrity of air conditioning and refrigeration systems to ensure that they are functioning properly and not leaking refrigerant.
  2. Power Generation: Helium leak detection is used to test the integrity of boilers, condensers, and other heat exchangers used in power plants to ensure they are not leaking steam or other fluids.
  3. Chemical Processing: Helium leak detection is used to test the integrity of heat exchangers used in chemical processing plants to ensure they are not leaking chemicals or other hazardous materials.

 

4. Pharmaceutical and Biotech: Helium leak detection is used to test the integrity of heat exchangers used in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries to ensure they are not leaking any hazardous materials.

5. Automotive: Helium leak detection is used to test the integrity of radiators, oil coolers, and other heat exchangers used in automobiles to ensure they are not leaking coolant or other fluids.

6. Aerospace: Helium leak detection is used to test the integrity of heat exchangers used in aerospace applications such as aircraft and spacecraft, to ensure they are not leaking fluids or gases.

 

Advantages

  1. Sensitivity: Helium is one of the smallest atoms, making it an excellent tracer gas for detecting small leaks. It can detect leaks as small as 1 x 10-9 mbar·L/s, which is much more sensitive than other methods like pressure decay testing.
  2. Non-toxicity: Helium is a non-toxic, non-flammable, and chemically inert gas, making it safe to use for leak detection in a wide range of industries.
  3. Speed: Helium leak detection can be performed quickly and efficiently, allowing for rapid identification and repair of leaks.
  4. Versatility: Helium leak detection can be used on a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and ceramics, making it suitable for use in a wide range of heat exchanger applications.
  5. Cost-effective: Helium leak detection is a cost-effective method for identifying leaks in heat exchangers and is often more cost-effective than other methods like pressure decay testing or visual inspections.
  6. Portable: Helium leak detection equipment is portable and can be used on site, which is especially useful for large heat exchangers that cannot be easily moved.