5.1 These test methods are useful for locating and estimating the size of pressurized gas leaks, either as quality control tests or as field inspection procedures. Also, they are valuable as pretests before other more time consuming and more sensitive leak tests are employed. These test methods are semi-quantitative techniques used to locate leaks but cannot be used to quantify except for approximation. These test methods may be used in an accept-reject test mode.

1.1 This practice covers procedures for detecting the sources of gas leaking at the rate of 1 × 10 ^–5 Pa m³/s (1 × 10^–4 standard cm³/s) or greater. The tests may be conducted on any object that can be pressurized with a tracer gas that is detectable by a thermal conductivity detector. The test sensitivity will vary widely depending on the tracer gas used.

1.2 Units—The values stated in either SI or std-cc/sec units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents: therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.