Helium Leak Testing for Quick Connectors in Data Center Cooling Systems

The rapid growth of global data consumption has driven a massive increase in data center infrastructure, particularly in the last few years. This expansion has placed high demands on HVAC system performance, where thermal design plays a crucial role in ensuring operational reliability and energy efficiency. Within this context, quick connectors have become vital components in facilitating modular, leak-free, and maintenance-friendly cooling systems for data centers.

To meet the rigorous demands of this sector, Marposs HeTech has developed a specialized leak testing bench tailored for blind mate quick connectors used in open rack designs. These connectors are part of a broader initiative to standardize thermal management solutions for high-performance computing environments.

The test bench performs integral helium leak tests capable of detecting even the smallest leaks, with sensitivity exceeding 1.10 x 10⁻⁵ atm.cc/s at 100 PSI (6.9 bar). The system uses a vacuum chamber for global testing, pressurizing components with trace gas and measuring any leakage with a mass spectrometer. It features dual toolings for both open and closed connector positions, handling ten parts per tooling and enabling a test cycle every 45 seconds—delivering a productivity of up to 800 pieces per hour.

Successfully managing simultaneous testing of multiple parts, even with background noise, is a technical challenge the system handles effectively. With increasing demand for higher throughput and reliability from end-users, the importance of robust leak testing on quick connectors is only growing. Marposs HeTech’s proven vacuum technology and automation expertise have positioned it as a key supplier not only for current projects but also for future developments in this rapidly evolving market. 

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