Development of a Computer Aided Gas Sealability Test System

A test system is presented that performs gas sealability tests on gasket materials and components. The system is computer controlled and capable of providing elevated compressive loads and gas pressures. It incorporates a personal computer controller interface, a hydraulic load frame, and integrated gas pressure control. Gas leakage is measured using a mass flowmeter. It performs several multiple-condition tests, the most important being a load sequence sealability test at constant gas pressure and a pressure and load sequence sealability test. The test system provides for automatic test control and data acquisition, so that the test sequences can run unattended. An overview of sealability test methods is included to provide perspective regarding this development.