Sniffer Method

The test part is pressurized with helium. The detector, via an LDS (Long Distance Sniffer) probe, samples the helium escaping from the part. The part is placed under a cover containing a sniffer probe. The leak cannot be located. The helium from the leak accumulates over time inside the cover. The detector measures the concentration of helium.

The sniffer probe is moved over areas likely to contain leaks. The leak can be located. The signal supplied by the analyzer is not a direct measurement of the leak. The sniffer probe only samples part of the helium escaping from the part. The sample depends on the distance separating the leak from the tip of the probe.