Talk Composites - The Forum for Advanced Composites

Ultrasonic leak detector

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Topic32766.aspx

By 8900120d - 5/5/2019 12:46:49 PM

Hi guys, I’m having trouble getting a perfectly sealed bag, I’ve tried everything-
Double bagging
Envelope bagging
Spraying some tacky glue on the bag
Making sure I have a clean surface and work space
Checked my catch pot and hoses for leaks

I just can’t get a perfect seal! It leaks around 2hg an hour, it’s a very small / slow leak!

Has anyone tried ultrasonic leak detectors to find tiny leaks ?

I infused the part with the very slow leak (see pic) pic was taken 1h after the full infusion. Are the light areas caused by a vac leak

Thanks
By oekmont - 5/5/2019 5:41:50 PM

In my opinion a digital pressure sensor is the best tool for tight bags. As I am using pa/pe/pa bag, I never have any problems with a punctured bag. So I connect the pump to the vacuum hose, and the pressure sensor to the feed hose. This tells me immediately if my bag is tight, and if it isn't, I'll work my way around the sealing edge while looking at the manometer. The pressure changes if I am at a leaking point. So I know where to invest some extra work. This saves time and is very reliable. And you can skip the drop test, wich saves even more time.