Understanding the Helium Bombing Process for Sealed Components
In manufacturing, ensuring the integrity of hermetically sealed components is critical. Even the smallest leaks can lead to malfunctions or failures, especially in applications where reliability is paramount. One of the most effective and sensitive methods for detecting these leaks and preventing failures is helium bombing. In this post, we will explore the helium bombing process, its importance, and how it ensures the reliability of electronic components.
What is Helium Bombing?
Helium bombing is a fine-leak testing method that exposes sealed components to a pressurized helium-rich environment effectively “bombarding” the parts with helium. Helium penetrates defects in the sealed part forcing gas inside the part. The part is removed from the bombing chamber and tested on a helium mass spectrometer leak detector to evaluate leak tightness. This process enables manufacturers to detect leaks that could compromise the performance and reliability of electronic components.
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The Helium Bombing Process
1. Preparation of the Test Sample
Sealed electronics are placed into a specialized test chamber, often referred to as a bombing chamber. The components must be clean and free of contaminants to ensure accurate results.
2. Creating the Helium Environment
After the test sample is secure, the chamber is evacuated to remove existing air. Once the desired vacuum level is reached, the chamber is filled with helium to the required bombing pressure. This helium-rich environment allows the gas to permeate any existing leaks in the components.
3. Remove and Rest the Components
Once the appropriate bombing duration has elapsed, the helium is exhausted from the chamber—either vented away or stored for later use through a helium recovery system. The components are then removed from the bombing chamber and allowed to rest for the necessary "dwell time". This interval enables helium particles that may have adhered to the exterior of the parts to dissipate, ensuring accurate test results.
4. Fine Leak Detection with the TITAN VERSA Helium Leak Detector
After the dwell time, the components are placed into a test vacuum chamber connected to a helium leak detector. Typically, components are batch tested. The leak detector measures the helium escaping from the test parts providing precise data for verifying component integrity.
5. Analysis and Results
If the measured helium leak rate exceeds the maximum allowable limit (MAL), the part is removed from production. If parts are batch tested the user must test multiple parts to determine the defective unit. This analysis helps manufacturers identify defects and refine sealing processes to enhance quality.
Benefits of Helium Bombing
- Exceptional Sensitivity
Helium bombing can detect leaks as small as 1x10^-9 mbar L/s, making it one of the most precise methods for leak testing sealed devices.
- Comprehensive Testing
This method is ideal for a wide range of sealed devices such as sealed electrical components, medical devices, automotive components, and aerospace instruments.
LACO’s Helium Bombing Systems
At LACO Technologies, we provide both automated and manual helium bombing systems tailored to your specific testing requirements:
-Automated Helium Bombing Systems
Our automated systems are equipped with the ATLAS Leak Test Controller and the TITAN VERSA Leak Detector for precision and repeatability. These systems enable high throughput without sacrificing accuracy and maintaining full traceability.
-Manual Helium Bombing Systems
For operations requiring flexibility or low throughput, our manual systems offer affordable solutions while maintaining reliable results. These systems provide operators with the ability to meet the unique demands of individual components.
Conclusion
Helium bombing is a critical process for ensuring the reliability and performance of sealed components. By utilizing this highly sensitive leak detection method with tools like the TITAN VERSA Helium Leak Detector and the ATLAS Controller, manufacturers can elevate product quality, reduce failure risks, and maintain a competitive edge.
Contact our team today or fill out our Helium Bombing System Configurator to learn more about LACO's helium bombing systems and how they can enhance your operations!