초록 ▼

A method and device for testing for leaks in fuel tanks. The method requires a vacuum be drawn around the fuel tank while a test gas is injected into the tank. Any leaks in the tank will permit the test gas to be drawn into the vacuum chamber, the output of which is tested by a sensor sensitive to t

A method and device for testing for leaks in fuel tanks. The method requires a vacuum be drawn around the fuel tank while a test gas is injected into the tank. Any leaks in the tank will permit the test gas to be drawn into the vacuum chamber, the output of which is tested by a sensor sensitive to the test gas. The entire test is conducted assuring speed, accuracy and safety. The tank device contains a vacuum chamber which is molded directly upon the tank to be tested, thereby minimizing the size of the vacuum chamber. The device also contains a sealing system which is adjustable. An optional addition to the system is a method of localizing a leak that is detected.

대표청구항 ▼

A method for detecting leaks in a fuel tank comprising the steps of loading said fuel tank into a substantially rigid vacuum chamber substantially conforming to the shape of said fuel tank; closing and sealing said vacuum chamber; sealing all ports of said fuel tank; evacuating said vacuum chamber;

A method for detecting leaks in a fuel tank comprising the steps of loading said fuel tank into a substantially rigid vacuum chamber substantially conforming to the shape of said fuel tank; closing and sealing said vacuum chamber; sealing all ports of said fuel tank; evacuating said vacuum chamber; scavenging said vacuum chamber with filtered air; reducing the air pressure in said vacuum chamber rapidly by a first high-volume vacuum means, comparing the pressure in said vacuum chamber with preset pressure of a second high-sensitivity vacuum means, and opening said second vacuum means to said vacuum chamber and closing said first vacuum means to said vacuum chamber when the pressure in said vacuum chamber is equal to the pressure in said second vacuum means; injecting a pressurized test gas into said fuel tank; and sensing the output of said second vacuum means with a test gas sensing means.