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Pressure Decay Leak Test

What is a Pressure Decay Leak Test?

Pressure decay is one of the most widely used methods of leak testing in manufacturing and is ideal for a sealed component with an access port. In this test, a product is attached to a leak tester and filled with air. Once pressurized, the air source is valved off and the pressure is allowed to settle. During the test any decrease in air pressure over time signifies a leak. If the part does not leak/decay past its predetermined reject value, it is a good part. The sensitivity of this test is dependent upon the product’s size and the time interval of the test. Larger objects require a longer cycle time to reach a high enough sensitivity for a quality test. Smaller objects with small internal volumes will require very low cycle time, allowing a high throughput of production.

Zaxis PD compact pressure decay leak tester with 4.3-inch touchscreen, wall-mounted design, and bottom-mounted connectors for efficient leak testing in manufacturing environments.
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Schematic diagram illustrating the Pressure Decay Leak Test process, including fill, stabilize, test, and vent stages with labeled components.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Connect your part to a Zaxis leak tester with a fitting or fixture. During the FILL stage your part is pressurized.
  2. Once the desired test pressure specified by the manufacturer has been reached and the fill time has ended, the SETTLE stage commences accommodating for part stretching or flexing.
  3. Once the part has settled and the settle time has ended, the pressure decay TEST initiates. During the test stage a pressure sensor will measure any drop in pressure.
  4. After the pressure decay test the remaining pressure in the system is vented to atmosphere during the VENT stage.
  5. If the pressure decay of your part remains within your specification then your part PASSES and a green light illuminates. If the pressure decay of your part falls below your lower limit, then your part FAILS and the red light illuminates.

The advantage of this type of testing is that it is accurate up to the 5th decimal place or 0.00001 PSI allowing for fast test cycles.

Sample Applications:

  • Catheters
  • IV Set
  • Tubing
  • Needleless Injection
  • Bag
  • Implantable Device
  • Infusion Set
  • Metering Device
  • Sensors/Indicators

In general, differential pressure testers are ideal solutions for components involving large volumes with low leak rates. Contact Zaxis to learn more about how differential pressure testing can enhance your production.

Why Choose Pressure Decay Leak Testing for Your Products

Pressure decay testing is a precise and reliable method for detecting leaks in sealed systems. By measuring changes in pressure over time, this test ensures product integrity, prevents costly defects, and maintains safety and quality standards.

  • Detects even the smallest leaks in components and assemblies
  • Non-destructive testing method that preserves your product
  • Quick and repeatable testing process for consistent results
  • Compatible with a wide range of materials and sealed systems
  • Supports quality assurance and regulatory compliance

Contact Zaxis Inc today to schedule a pressure decay leak test and ensure your products meet the highest standards.

Suggested Leak Testers For Pressure Decay

A wall mounted, lower cost, single channel alternative for manufacturing cell configurations.

A compact design that saves on valuable manufacturing space. Ideal for automation.

The modular design makes this mulit-tester the work horse of the leak tester family.

Large feature capacity including a large, easy to use, color touchscreen.

Pressure decay leak testing is a reliable method for detecting leaks in sealed systems. By monitoring pressure changes over time, even small leaks can be identified, helping manufacturers maintain product quality and safety. Zaxis Inc provides precise and easy-to-use pressure decay leak testers to support accurate, non-destructive testing for a wide range of applications.

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