Redefining Helium Control for Handheld Leak Detection
As leak detection systems evolve toward compact, portable formats, IMI FAS is pioneering a breakthrough in helium delivery. Our latest innovation integrates a helium-compatible proportional valve directly into the spray gun head—eliminating bulky multi-valve setups and reducing operator strain.
This case study highlights IMI FAS's innovative approach to helium delivery for handheld leak detection systems. By integrating a helium-compatible proportional valve directly into the spray gun head, eliminating bulky multi-valve setups, reducing operator strain, and enhancing system performance.
Advanced Microfluidics System within a Compact Space
Helium testing is widely used across industries for non-destructive leak detection, and the requirements for this process are evolving rapidly. As systems become more compact and portable, especially in handheld applications, the need for precise, low-leak helium control in extremely constrained spaces has become a critical engineering challenge. In this case, the objective is to integrate a helium dispensing manifold directly into the head of a spray gun—minimizing weight to reduce operator strain, while achieving exceptionally high airtightness. Traditional solutions relying on multiple on/off valves introduce complexity, bulk, and potential reliability issues, making them unsuitable for next-generation designs.
A Tailored Microfluidic Solution: Compact Proportional Control for High-Integrity Helium Delivery
To address this challenge, IMI FAS is developing a custom manifold solution that integrates a helium-compatible proportional valve into a compact, lightweight assembly. The design replaces a multi-valve configuration with a single, precisely controlled proportional valve, electronically managed via a PCB. This approach not only simplifies the fluidic architecture but also ensures accurate flow modulation and excellent leak tightness—critical for helium-based systems. The manifold is being tailored to fit the exact geometry of the spray gun, leveraging IMI’s combined expertise in proportional valve technology and precision manifold design. The result is a streamlined, application-specific solution that reduces component count, lowers system weight, and enhances usability without compromising performance.