Detector for leaks or orifices

Abstract

An apparatus for testing for leaks in individual cavities, such as pin sockets, in a component, such as an electrical connector, in which the pin sockets or other cavities to be tested for leaks extend into the component from a surface of the component is provided. The apparatus of this invention includes resilient surface for sealingly engaging the surface of the component which surrounds the sockets or other cavities. There is provided through the resilient surface a plurality of deformation resistant apertures, which may be, for example, hollow metal tubes, such as hypodermic needles protruding through the resilient surface. The apertures are geometrically arranged to correspond to the arrangement of the cavities so that one aperture is in alignment with the opening of each cavity. Each of the apertures is connected by a conduit to a pressure sensor, which is capable of measuring the rate of pressure decay or leakage out of the test section or cavity. Provision is also made for simultaneously introducing a gas under pressure to each of the apertures. A suitable valve mechanism is provided for turning off the gas supply so that the rate of leakage, after such pressurization of the cavities, can be measured.