G Systems VLMS is a self-contained counting instrument for automated leak detection. The typical methods were costly, tedious, and prone to human error – especially in the area of low-flow leak detection. A leading manufacture for large valves needed a more efficient and deterministic method to detect leaks.
A leading manufacture for large valves needed a more efficient and deterministic method to detect leaks. Off the shelf flow meters are not stable at very low flow rates so valve manufacturers and service technicians rely on the decades-old, industry-accepted practice of counting bubbles formed at the end of a tube submerged in water. This requires a manufacturing line operator to count the number of bubbles that appeared in a specific amount of time in order to quantify the leak rate or verify a zero-leak requirement. These methods are costly, tedious and prone to human error – especially in the area of low-flow leak detection.
G Systems developed a machine vision system to implement the process of counting bubbles from the submerged tube. G Systems developed algorithms to detect and count the formed bubbles. Since a camera identifies the bubbles via automated leak detection, a video can be produced for archiving or even post witnessing the test eliminating the need for customer onsite witnessing of the process when desired. The test is performed for a predefined amount of time and the bubbles are counted during that time. Each bubble is time stamped to measure rate and even acceleration. The test information, time stamp, and bubble count data are superimposed onto the image of the video to validate the test and provide self documentation. This is critical for zero-bubble tests that require no leaks occur through a valve seat over a timed duration. Test information can be included on the display such as customer name, job number, valve type, model, seal material, etc, plus any other user-defined information. All of this information is saved to disk.
Benefits of the bubble counting system:
The G Systems LDD fully integrates with any new or existing test fixture and data system, and can be wall mounted, installed on a bench-top, or mounted directly on a machine frame. The system includes additional USB ports to connect an external keyboard/mouse (not required), a bar code scanner, or removable storage devices. The G Systems VLMS is compatible with API Standard 527, Seat Tightness of Pressure Relief Valves.
The Low Flow Rate Leak Detector system uses a simple USB 2 camera and a back light. The case provides the mounting for the jar and camera. The jar is placed in view of the camera with a back light to provide the necessary contrast to visually identify the bubbles. An industrial touch screen monitor is included for easy bench interfacing. The screen is mounted on a friction hinge which can be folded down for storage or transportation. For installations requiring full automation with a pressurization test system, the monitor can be removed to save cost. Based on the frame rate of the camera, the number of bubbles that can be reliably counted is up to 200 bubbles per minute (30 SCCM). This can be verified by watching the video frame by frame. The bubbles are time stamped to calculate formation rate and inferred flow rate. The default method of calculation is to measure the total time from the first bubble to the last bubble divided by the total number of bubbles. Another simple calculation can be performed to calculate the acceleration or deceleration of bubble formation. Deceleration would be a good indicator of the seal integrity over time.
The G Systems Low-Flow-Rate Leak Detector provides features that are ideal in the following test applications:
Key Characteristics
G Systems offers customization services in order to interface the VLMS software directly to your database or to provide additional real-time information.
The G Systems VLMS provides accurate, automated leak detection measurement of small leaks and is ideal for applications that must be absolutely airtight, including medical devices, pharmaceutical equipment, and oil, gas and plumbing valves. It reduces operator error and fatigue. A camera opens the doors to measurements that before were never possible including more accurate rates and acceleration. The VLMS can be used from the engineers’ lab to the bench and even out in the field. The software can be customized to your company platform and requirements.
The best way to begin is by having a conversation with a member of the G Systems teams about your test challenges and the options for helping you solve them.
Based near Dallas, Texas, G Systems is an internationally recognized systems integrator specializing in the modernization of complex systems of all sizes. We are experienced in the design, integration, assembly, production, and maintenance of custom turnkey solutions that support our customers at all phases of their product’s maturity cycle.
NAICS Codes: 541330, 541715, 541511, 334515, 335999, 334519
CAGE Code: 3HPP5
