Vacuum Mode Versus Sniff Mode On Your Leak Detector

Leak detectors are designed to ensure a safer and more productive environment for laboratory, industrial, and research processes. But how you detect leaks depends on your application. By pointing out some key differences, you will be able to select the right mode for your detector every time.

Vacuum (Vac) Detector Mode

Vac mode is used to measure the leak rate accurately in the vac chambers. It checks process vac levels so that a process can have enough pumping function to operate to capacity more effectively.

A helium detector checks for leaks by accurately detecting increases in the air. One way to do this is to place a sensor close to the entrance to the vac pump of the unit suspected of leaks. Spray the system’s possible leak areas with helium. An alarm will sound if a leak is present in the chamber.

Common Applications

• Components and assemblies high-sensitivity testing
• Lithium-ion battery cell leak detecting
• Machinery leak detection
• Technologically advanced vac systems leak testing
• Testing of tools

Environments

• Automotive industry
• Semiconductor manufacturing
• Other industrial, laboratory, and research process environments

Advantages

Vac mode in a helium detector for leaks can detect very tiny leaks in components. Even the smallest leak can cost thousands of dollars in major repairs because, if not sealed, leaks of any size tend to grow over time.

The vac mode also allows for a vacuum system to connect with it for continuous monitoring of leak detection.

Sniffer Detector Mode

This mode setting is used to pinpoint the location of a leak. The hand-held probe enables you to check leakage levels at a further distance. This is useful for demanding production environments that require full-time leak detection.

The probe is connected to the detector’s inlet test port. Before you start testing, it’s recommended to calibrate the system with a helium calibrated leak detector from High Vac Depot. After the test object is pressurized with helium gas, you should move the probe slowly over all of the test object’s leak points to check for leaks.

The probe must remain uncontaminated, so it is important not to plug it up during testing. If there is a known large leak, the probe can become contaminated with helium as well. Testing should resume after leaks are repaired. If you use a fan to blow away helium contaminated air, make sure there is sufficient clean air before continuing with the testing.

Common Applications

• Component testing
• Final testing and filling after assembly in production
• Sub-assemblies testing

Environments

• Air conditioning
• Automotive – electromobility (e-Mobility) including the propulsion technologies for electric vehicles, electric powertrain, and hybrids
• Hydrogen energy economy
• Refrigeration
• Other industrial, laboratory, and research process environments

Advantages

Sniff mode is used to pinpoint small and large leaks at a distance accurately. The probe’s cable length may be very long to cover a wide area of space or other areas where the leak detecting unit can’t maneuver into.

Probes are available in varied leak detection sensitivity and cable/hose lengths. They may be ordered separately based on the needs of the application. For example, some probes are designed specifically to be the most effective in harsh environments. You’ll want to confirm that the probe you use meets your requirements.

Noteable Mode Differences

Testing for long distances is more comfortable due to the hand-held probe’s ergonomic design. This enables you to hold the probe for long periods of continuous leak detection in full-time production.

Vac mode is useful for ongoing leak detection in chambers. A helium leak detector in this mode can monitor specific equipment for leaks in a stand-alone way.

Detectors Reduce Long-Term Operational Costs for Many Industries

Troubleshooting gas leaks in your products and processes is an ongoing commitment. Also, it lowers operational costs when leaks are found sooner rather than later. Matter of fact, undetected leaks can cost a facility hundreds of thousands of dollars. For example, a power plant’s inefficient heat exchanger can result in an annual loss of millions of dollars over a few years. Companies can avoid this type of outcome by implementing regular leak detection policies.

Benefits of leak detection procedures include:

• Adherence to safety regulations and guidelines of leak tightness
• Increased reliability of processes and operating equipment
• Reduced annual operating costs when leaks are repaired

In the battle between vacuum and sniffer modes, both are winners in the war against leaks in laboratory and production processes. Use them to detect the presence of leaks in vac chambers and to pinpoint leaks wherever they are in your environment.

High Vac Depot is your one-stop source for leak detectors with dual detection options. If you must choose one mode setting, we can help you determine which one is best for your specific application. Call us toll free at 1-800-289-6945 or contact us online today.