Fuel Tank Leak Testing
Fuel Tank Leak Testing
(OP)
What are some test methods for leak testing fuel tanks. Our tanks are of a welded design, and I am looking for a method of testing them to find any leaks, including pinholes. Any input is greatly appreciated.





RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
Cyril Guichard
Defense Program Manager
Belgium
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
If water holds then you can be reassured that oil will hold since it has a greater viscosity.
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
Can be done using either helium or hydrogen as tracer gas.
-handleman, CSWP (The new, easy test)
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
Cheers
Greg Locock
SIG:Please see FAQ731-376: Eng-Tips.com Forum Policies for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
Paint the outside seams with developer and slosh the inside of the tank with penetrant.
B.E.
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
Cyril Guichard
Defense Program Manager
Belgium
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
A long time ago, a British aeroplane company used to fill aluminium fuel tanks for jet aircraft with kerosene for leak checking. When a leak was found, the pressure was dropped off the tank and a welder TIG welded the leak on the full tank.
This was done for several years until a workman forgot to relieve the pressure on the tank, the resulting explosion killed several people.
B.E.
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing
Good luck.
(bear in mind the total force on a surface when "only" 15 psi is acting on it.. A large unsuported tank could become "round")
RE: Fuel Tank Leak Testing