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Levels I, II, and III
Bubble Leak Testing
Supplement to
Recommended Practice
No. SNT-TC-lA
Book HB
The American Society
for Nondestructive Testing, IDe.
Compiled by the Bubble Leak Testing Supplement Committee of the Personnel Qualification Division, Education
and Qualification Council of The American Society for Nondestructive Testing.
This publication contains suggested questions and answers in the Bubble Leak Testing Method for use in
conjunction with Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-JAfor Personnel and Qualification Certification in
Nondestructive Testing, available fromASNT.
Published by
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc.
1711 Arlingate Lane
POBox28518
Columbus, OH 43228-0518
Copyright © 1994 by The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this
book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed prior written permission of the
publisher.
ASNT is not responsible for the authenticity or accuracy of information herein. Published opinions and statements
do not necessarily reflect the opinion of ASNT. Products or services that are advertised or mentioned do not Carty
the endorsement or recommendation of ASNT.
ASNT exists to create a safer worfd by promoting the profession and technologies of nondestructive testing.
ISBN 1-57117-113-4
ii
Table of Contents
References iv
Level I 1
Questions 1
Answers 7
Level II 9
Questions 9
Answers 15
Level III 17
Questions 17
Answers 23
Sample Specification 25
Sample Specification Questions 29
Sample Specification Answers 31
iii
Recommended Training References
Bubble Leak Testing Method
The following references were used in formulating the questions contained in this book.
A.* McMaster, R.C., ed. Nondestructive Testing Handbook, second edition: Volume l, Leak
Testing, The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc., Columbus, OH: 1982.
B.* Jackson, Charles N., Jr., and Charles N. Sherlock, technical editors, Patrick 0. Moore,
editor, Nondestructive Testing Handbook, third edition, Volume l, Leak Testing, The
American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc., Columbus, OH: 1998.
C.* ASM Metals Handbook, ninth edition, Nondestructive Evaluation and Quality Control,
Volume 17, ASM International, Metals Park, OH: 1989.
D.* Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Volume 03.03, Nondestructive Testing. "Standard Test
Method for Leaks Using Bubble Emission Techniques," Standard E 515, American Society
for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, PA.
Each question found in this book is followed by letter(s) and page number(s) indicating the
specific recommended reference where the answer may be found. For example:
In this example, the letter "A" refers to Reference A in the list above and "393" is the page in
that edition of Reference A where the answer to the question is located.
iv
Reference Usage List
Reference B: Total = 10
Level I (5)
Level II (3)
Level III (2)
Reference C: Total= 3
Level I (1)
Level II (1)
Level III (1)
Reference D: Total = 0
Level I (0)
Level II (0)
Level III (0)
v
Level I Questions
Bubble Leak Testing Method
l. Which type of evacuation equipment is one of 5. Which of the following is the basic type of true
the two most widely used for vacuum box bubble defect that would be indicated during a bubble
leak testing? leak test by a continuous flow of bubbles?
4. What is the usual minimum test observation time 8. What is the best procedure to follow if too much
for a bubble leak test? time has passed and the bubble solution has dried
before applying the vacuum box to the test
a. As fast as possible. specimen?
b. Atleast0.17h.
c. No more than 3 s. a. Consider that area tested and move on to the
d. As required by the test specification or next test area.
procedure. b. Clean the test area, reapply the solution and
A.409 then test.
c. Increase test pressure.
d. Add a fluorescent dye to the solution, reapply
and test.
A.427
1
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level I
9. What is the first thing to be done to the test area 14. Which of the following best describes how an
before performing any bubble leak test? indication of a very small leak would appear
when bubble leak testing?
a. Clean and visually test the test area.
b. Cool the test specimen to -1 °C (30 °F). a. A continuous appearance of several to many
c. All of the above. small bubbles at regular intervals or one large
d. None of the above. bubble that grows slowly.
A.394, 425 b. Small leaks of this nature will not be indicated
by this test.
10. What procedure should be followed in order to c. A single small bubble would form.
vacuum box bubble leak a comer weld? d. None of the above.
A.396
a. It is only necessary to visually test a comer
weld. 15. What surface condition can interfere with the
b. Double the test pressure. detection of real leakage bubbles or produce a
c. Use some other nondestructive testing method spurious or false indication of leakage?
for comer welds.
d. Use a special vacuum box that fits the a. Coating the surface with leak detector solution
geometry of the test area. after thorough cleaning.
A.423-424 b. Testing with surface temperature of test
specimen at 70 oc (184 °F).
11. What is the surest means to prevent the failure c. Air trapped in surface defects or grease or dirt.
(implosion) of a vacuum box caused by the d. Highly polished test surface.
pressure differential created by the evacuation of A.390-391, 394
the box?
16. What parameter can directly affect the sensitivity
a. Build the box to withstand a full atruosphere of any vacuum box bubble leak test? Sensitivity
(101 kPa or 14.7 psi) of pressure differential. is the smallest size leakage that may be detected
b. Monitor the pressure differential with a by this leak test technique.
vacuum gage installed inside the box.
c. Watch the bubble solution become fluorescent, a. Ambient air dew point temperature is more
indicating that a pressure difference of than -4 oc (25 °F).
102 kPa (29.9 in. Hg) has been reached. b. Slight residual magnetism in test specimen.
d. It is not possible to evacuate the box enough c. Amount of pressure differential created with
to reach a pressure differential high enough to the box.
cause failure. d. Test specimen size.
A.423 A.392-393, 427, 429
12. What may happen if the maximum allowed 17. Which of the following factors can most affect
(design) pressure for the specimen is exceeded the sensitivity attainable by a pressure bubble
when pressurizing for a bubble leak test? leak test?
a. The test specimen may rupture or explode. a. Operator alertness and technique.
b. The solution may explode. b. Size and shape of test specimen.
c. A false leak indication may show. c. Time of day testing is done.
d. No unusual indication will occur. d. Number of test technicians.
A.175-176 A.393
13. Which of the following best describes how an 18. Which type ofleaking discontinuity is most
indication of a very large or gross leak would likely to go undetected during a pressure bubble
appear in a vacuum box? leak test?
a. Large leaks will not show with this test. a. A discontinuity (such as a crack) that shows
b. A large bubble or bubbles may form briefly or up well on a radiograph.
the solution may be blown away immediately. b. A very small leak or a very large leak.
c. A continuous series of bubbles would always c. A defect in a mechanically rolled joint.
appear. d. A defect in a welded joint.
d. None of the above. A.396, 427, 429
A.429
2
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level I
19. When a pipe is blanked for pressurizing using an 23. For safe use without the need of a relief device, a
expandable stopper or plumber's type plug inside vacuum box for bubble leak testing should be
the line, what should be done to prevent blowout designed to permit sustained operation at a
of the plug? vacuum (pressure differential) of about:
a. Vacuum box bubble testing will not enable the a. Water with wetting agent.
detection of large leaks. b. Carbon tetrachloride.
b. Use of the wrong test equipment. c. Acetone.
c. The bubble solution may be blown away d. Refrigerant 12.
before detectable bubbles can be seen. e. All of the above.
d. lllumination by ultraviolet light shows no A.403-404
defect.
A.396, 427
26. If static bubbles appear in the area of interest
during a vacuum box bubble leak test:
22. 1Which of the following is correct with respect to
vacuum box bubble leak testing? a. the test area should be cleaned and
reexamined to determine if this is a spurious
a. Test sensitivity decreases with decrease in or false indication.
pressure differential. b. this should be reported as a leak.
b. The size and the frequency of the bubbles c. the test area should be cleaned and
have no relationship to the leak size and reexamined at a lower pressure differential.
character. d. the area of interest should be considered free
c. Bubble test solution is generally required to ofleaks.
have a high specific gravity. A.428
d. All of the above.
A.393
3
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Levell
27. If a few small bubbles rapidly form in the area of 31. To be sure that all test areas are leak tested when
interest during a vacuum box bubble test and vacuum box bubble testing, overlap successive
then terminate almost inunediately (in a few settings of the vacuum box by at least:
seconds):
a. the depth of the rubber gasket.
a. this is indicative of a real small sporadic leak. b. 50% of the box length.
b. this means the bubble solution is no good and c. 51 mm (2 in.) or more.
as a result the test must be repeated. d. no overlap is required.
c. this is indicative of either a false or virtual leak. A.429
d. none of the above. B.308
A.390-391
32. When performing a bubble test to detect very
28. Which of the following is the reason that very small leaks, the leak detector solution should be
small leaks go undetected during a bubble leak applied to the test surface:
test?
a. in a light coating relatively free of bubbles.
a. The barometric pressure is too low. b. without surface precleaning.
b. The vacuum box is too small. c. in a thick foam.
c. The operator is observing the test area for too d. at least 300 s before observation of the
short a period of time. solution.
d. The rubber gasket on the vacuum box is worn. A.415, 419-420
A.390
33. Acceptable methods of applying leak detector
29. An area that has been bubble leak tested is solution are:
considered to be free of leaks within the
sensitivity of the test method when: a. brushing.
b. spraying.
a. the vacuum gage on the vacuum box reads c. squirt bottle.
93 k:Pa (27 .6 in. Hg). d. all of the above.
b. there are no bubble indications of leakage A.420
observed.
c. there are no spurious or false leak indications. 34. After a vacuum box is positioned, the operator
d. the vacuum gage reading drops to 99 k:Pa should observe the leak detector solution as the
(29 .3 in. Hg) in 10 s. box is first evacuated in order to:
A.410, 428
a. not overlook small leaks that tend to blow
30. For bubble leak testing in an enclosed heated through the detector solution instead of
area, which of the following would be considered forming visible bubbles.
relevant? b. check on the vacuum reading.
c. not overlook large or gross cracks that tend to
a. The ambient temperature drops to 20 oc blow the detector solution away.
(94 °F). d. none of the above.
b. The formation of one or more small bubbles A.429
which do not repeat.
c. The vacuum or pressure dial gage reading. 35. A tag or sticker attached to the glass face or metal
d. Rainy and windy weather. case of a pressure or vacuum dial gage used in
A.420 bubble leak testing would normally show the:
4
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level I
36. Under normal procedures, how often should a 40. The letters ~'psia" mean:
vacuum or pressure dial gage be calibrated when
in storage? a. pressure referred to National Bureau of
Standards* absolute pressure.
a. Every 6 months. b. pascals per square inch absolute.
b. Every 3 months. c. pressure standard in absolute uuits.
c. It would not have to be calibrated when in d. pounds per square inch absolute.
storage. A.l94, 799
d. None of the above.
AA25
41. The letters "psig" mean:
37. What might happen if an uncalibrated, inaccurate a. pressure standard in gage units.
dial gage was used for a vacuum box bubble leak b. pounds per square inch gage.
test? c. pounds standard in grams.
d. pressure per square inch.
a. The required test pressure may not be A.193, 799
achieved.
b. The vacuum box gasket might stick to the test
surface. 42. A vacuum box solution fihn test procedure
c. The transparent window would implode. requires that the test be performed at a pressure
d. The vacuum box gasket would leak differential of at least 55 kPa (8 psig). Which of
excessively. the following vacuum gages indicates a pressure
differential that meets this procedure
A.423, 425
requirement?
a. 30. c. _ __ d. _ __
b. 13.6.
c. 10.
d. 2.5.
A.192 A.l92, 343
B.28
5
Level I Answers
Bubble Leak Testing Method
1 d 23 d 34 c
2 d 24 d 35 c
3 b 25 a 36 c
4 d 26 a 37 a
5 a 27 c 38 b
6 d 28 c 39 c
7 c 29 b 40 d
8 b 30 c 41 b
9 a 31 c 42 d
10 d 32 a
11 a 33 d
7
Level IT Questions
Bubble Leak Testing Method
!. What is tlle sensitivity limit of a production bubble 5. When bubble leak testing, an accurate quantitative
leak test? judgment of leakage rate can be determined:
9
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level II
9. When a vacuum box bubble test is to be 13. Which of the following is an advantage of all the
performed on a large area such as a flat bottom techniques of the bubble leak test method?
it would be good leak testing practice to: '
a. The results are quantitative in nature.
a. test all the weld joints in one long sequence as b. Limited skill and training is required for
fast as possible so as not to miss any areas. personneL
b. test the large area by dividing it into small c. Very high sensitivity is attainable.
sections (one day or half day work for the test d. It is not satisfactory for detecting gross
crew) rotating or changing testing personnel leakage.
after testing of a section is complete in order A.390
to minimize the human fatigue factor.
c. allow the test operator a 15 minute break
every hour. 14. One of the advantages of using methyl alcohol as
d. perform a hydrostatic test first in order to the fluid for inunersion bubble leak testing is that
determine if vacuum box bubble test is even it:
required.
a. cleans while acting as a test fluid.
A.429
b. lasts a long time because of its low
evaporation rate.
10. A bubble leak test of the weld joints of a vessel c. has a low flanunability temperature.
internally pressurized to 41 kPa (6 psig) or a d. has a high viscosity.
bubble leak test of the weld joints in a plate A.404
evacuated on one side with a vacuum box to
41 kPa (6 psig), are:
15. When performing a preliminary bubble leak test
a. both pressure type tests of equal pressure at a low pressure to detect very large leaks, the
differentiaL leak detector solution would be better applied to
b. different in that the first test will produce test the test surface:
results twice as sensitive as the second test.
c. different in that the vacuum box technique can a. only as a thin film or soapsuds.
be completed twice as fast as internally b. only with a squirt can.
pressurizing the specimen. c. as a mixture of thick suds or foam.
d. none of the above. d. none of the above.
A.414, 419
A.396, 403
11. Which of the following examinations or tests 16. Which of the following directly determines the
size of the bubble formation when testing using
should always be performed before conducting a
vacuum box bubble leak test? the bubble test method?
10
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level II
18. In below freezing (0 oc or 32 °F) conditions on a 22. When performing a vacuum box bubble leak test
large in place outdoor pipe and vessel system to to detect very small size leaks, the leak detector
be bubble leak tested, what action should a solution should be applied:
nondestructive testing technician take to ensure a
valid leak test? a. after the test surface has been cleaned.
b. in a continuous film.
a. Increase pressure differential to 107 kPa c. free of contained bubbles.
(3.16 in. Hg). d. all of the above.
b. Hold suitable vacuum/pressure for at least A.419, 428-429
0.17 h to make sure no leaks are missed.
c. Heat the air used for pressurizing or postpone
the test until ambient temperature is warm 23. When performing a bubble leak test of a gas
enough and sufficient time is passed to melt pressurized system, the purpose of the soak time
any ice that may have formed in leaks. between completion of pressurization and
d. All of the above. application of the leak detection solution is to
allow time for:
A.429
a. dispersion of bubbles entrained in the detector
19. Ideal weather conditions for a bubble leak test of solution.
a large, in place vessel (outside) would be: b. dispersion of the pressurized gas through very
small and long and tortuous path leaks.
a. moderately warm. c. the temperature of the pressurized gas to reach
b. cloudy. nondestructive testing temperature.
c. calm (little or no wind). d. cooling of the pressurized gas which reduces
d. all of the above. dewpoint and moisture level inside the system.
A.392, 420 A.395
20. Leak testing practice per ASME Boiler and 24. Weld joints to be vacuum box bubble leak tested
Pressure Vessel Code, Section V for bubble leak should first be:
tests of pressurized systems requires that prior to
applying the bubble forming solution, the a. visually tested for what the technician feels
pressure should be held for a minimum soak time are suspect areas, and repair all these areas
of: before performing the bubble leak test.
b. ground absolutely smooth.
a. 0.5 h. c. deslagged and cleaned with a wire brush
b. 1 h. and/or rag and solvent to remove any foreign
c. until specimen temperature reaches ten matter or grease.
degrees above ambient. d. all of the above.
d. none of the above. A.394, 425
A.395, 427
25. Which of the following are factors which can
21. As a standard technique for vacuum box bubble affect the results of a bubble leak test?
leak testing, good leak testing practices require
that the temperature of the test surface remain in a. Technique and alertness of the operator.
. the range of: b. Pressure differential used and duration of
observation time of the test area after
a. 4 to 38 oc (40 to 100 °F). application of the leak detector solution.
b. the test temperature should be reduced to c. Lighting of area being examined.
below the dew point. d. All of the above.
c. at whatever temperature the test surface will A.419-420
be when placed in service.
d. none of the above.
A.425, 430
11
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level II
26. If freezing temperatures exist outside (below 29. One of the basic differences between a 35 kPa
0 oc or 32 °F) and the test vessel is indoors, what (5 psig) pressure bubble leak test of a complete
action should the nondestructive testing pressure vessel and a 35 kPa (5 psig) vacuum
technician take to ensure that a valid bubble leak box bubble leak test of a weld in a plate is:
test is performed?
a. the 35 kPa (5 psig) vessel bubble leak can be
a. No special action is necessary if the building performed outdoors in -40 oc (-40 °F)
is heated (day and night). weather.
b. Ambient temperature inside the building b. the pressure bubble leak test is always at least
should be raised to at least 46.2 oc (115 °F). twice as sensitive as is the vacuum box bubble
c. If it is raining, completely cover the test vessel leak test.
with a tarp. c. the pressure bubble leak test sensitivity is
d. None of the above. independent of pressure differential and is
A.429 entirely dependent on leak detector solution
temperature.
d. none of the above.
27. During hot sunny weather, test personnel A.403, 423, 427
performing a bubble leak test outdoors should:
a. do all testing at rtight so all spontaneous 30. When very large leaks go undetected during a
radiation will not endanger workers or test vacuum box bubble leak test, it could be because
personnel. the operator i~:
b. apply several coatings of test solution so that the
heavy coating of solution will evaporate slower. a. not maintaining the box temperature at
c. limit coverage of the test surface with solution 100 °C (212 °F).
film to an area of such size that it can be b .. forgetting to check calibration of the vacuum
tested before the detector solution dries or or pressure dial gage.
evaporates from the surface of the metal. c. not giving the solution time to get set before
d. none of the above. seating the vacuum box.
A.391, 398 d. none of the above.
A.429
28. A leak detector solution for bubble leak testing
should ideally have: 31. A vacuum box eqrtipped with a rectangular
pliable rubber gasket is difficult to initially seat
a. low surface tension for detecting very large across lap welds. When no other gasket or box is
leaks. available, to improve the initial seating ability of
b. low surface tension for detecting very small the box the best course of action is to trim the
leaks and higher surface tension for detecting gasket to reduce the initial contact area. Circle
very large leaks. "a" or "b" by the sketch that best indicates how
c. high surface tension for detecting very small this gasket should be trinnned.
leaks and lower surface tension for detecting
very large leaks. a. '
!---Outside of Box
d. high surface tension for detecting very small
leaks.
A.420 / 1 Atmospheric
vacuum- /'"-f--Side
Side ,(___ ...,. Tr'1m L'1ne
b. -outside of Box
Atmospheric
Vacuum - .... ; Side
Side ', 1
, ___' '). I
TrimLiue
A.424, Fig. 18
12
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level II
32. The type of leaks that are most likely to go 37. Good operating practice dictates that when
undetected during a bubble leak test are: performing bubble leak tests on a pipe and vessel
system, which of the following should be used?
a. very small leaks and very large leaks.
b. leaks occurring at welded joints. a. A gage graduated in pounds per square foot.
c. comer configuration joints. b. Two gages, one dial indicating and one
d. all of the above. recording.
A.393, 396, 429 c. Two gages in English system and two gages in
metric system.
d. A gage with face diameter of at least 27 em
33. The pipe to shell weld of a 51 mm (2 in.) (10.5 in.) graduated in psia.
diameter flanged nozzle with no reinforcing pad
A.409
plate is flush with the inside of the vessel shell.
The simplest way to bubble leak test this weld
prior to completion of the vessel would be to: 38. When a vacuum gage is marked with a range of
zero to thirty with the notation vacuum on the
a. blank the nozzle flange, install a plumber's face, the units of measurement are:
plug in the inner end and perform a pressure
bubble leak test of the weld. a. inches of mercury.
b. test the nozzle weld along with the shell b. pounds per square inch.
circumferential welds. c. centimeters of vacuum.
c. blank the nozzle flange and vacuum box d. feet of water.
bubble leak test the weld from inside the shell. A.343
d. it is not possible to bubble leak test this
geometric configuration.
39. For inunersion bubble leak testing, which of the
A.435, Fig. 26
following is correct?
34. Good practice dictates that when pressurizing a a. Pressure should be applied to the test
component for a bubble leak test: specimen after it is inunersed.
b. Increasing the pressure in the test specimen
a. the test gage should be cleaned with alcohol. does not increase the sensitivity of the test.
b. test pressure should be 150% of design c. The fluid in which the test specimen is
pressure. inunersed should have low surface tension.
c. two pressure gages shonld be used. d. Water produces the most sensitive test results
d. only one recording gage should be nsed. for this bubble test technique.
A.409 A.402, 405
B.288
C.60
35. Safe test practices dictate that all dial gages used
for vacuum box bubble leak testing shonld be
calibrated: 40. Which of the following is the least sensitive
solution to use for inunersion bubble leak
a. at least every 2 weeks. testing?
b. when taken from storage and prior to using.
c. once a month whether in use or in storage. a. Heated silicone oil.
d. none of the above. b. Methyl alcohol.
A.425 c. Water with wetting agent.
d. Tap water.
A.405
36. Gages used for vacuum box bubble leak testing B.288
should preferably have dials graduated over a
range of:
13
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level II
14
Level II Answers
Bubble Leak Testing Method
1 d 12 d 23 b 34 c
2 b 13 b 24 c 35 b
3 c 14 a 25 d 36 b
4 a 15 c 26 a 37 b
5 d 16 c 27 c 38 a
6 b 17 b 28 b 39 c
7 c 18 c 29 d 40 d
8 d 19 d 30 d 41 b
9 b 20 d 31 a
10 a 21 a 32 a
11 d 22 d 33 c
15
Level ill Questions
Bubble Leak Testing Method
L Which one of the following tests should always be 5. Under normal shop or field conditions at a
performed and repairs made before conducting a differential pressure of one atmosphere (101 kPa or
bubble leak test? 14.7 psig), a bubble leak test enables the detection of
leakage at least as small as:
a. Halogen leech box test.
b. Liquid penetrant test. a. !Q-5 std cm3·s-1.
c. Hydrostatic test. b. I0-6 to IQ-7 std cm3·s-1.
d. Visual test. c. !Q-2 to !Q-3 std cm3·s-1.
A.394-395 d. IQ-5 to 10-6 std cm3·s-1.
A.393, 419
2. Which of the factors listed below can affect the
results of a bubble leak test? 6. Because of inadequate clearance inside a shallow
plastic vacuum box, the gage must be mounted
a. Weather conditions. externally. Which one of the following standard off
b. Technique of the operator. the shelf gages would be the one to use on !his
c. Duration of observation time of the detector vacuum box?
solution after application.
d. All of the above. a. I 0 I rnm ( 4 in.) diameter pressure dial gage with a
A.393, 419-421 range of 0 to 103 kPa (0 to 15 psi).
b. 51 rnm (2 in.) diameter vacuum dial gage with a
range of 0 to 8 kPa (0 to 60 mm Hg).
3. When pressurizing for a bubble leak test, which of c. I 0 I rnm ( 4 in.) diameter pressure dial gage with a
the following gases must never be used as the range of 0 to 207 kPa (0 to 30 psi).
pressurizing medium? d. 51 rnm (2 in.) vacuum dial gage with a range of
0 to 102 kPa (0 to 30 in. Hg).
a. Nitrogen.
A.343, 423-424
b. Carbon dioxide.
c. Helium.
d. Hydrogen. 7. A wide selection of gasket cross sections is available
A.395, 421 for use on vacuum boxes. Of the typical gasket cross
sections shown below, one is Jess desirable than the
others for use on vacuum boxes. Select the gasket
4. From a safety standpoint, which one of the following that is the least desirable.
would best fulfill the design and material criteria for
an aluminum vacuum box with a glass window? a. b.
Design for:
a.
b.
c.
d.
55 kPa (8 psig) using auto safety glass.
103 kPa (15 psig) using auto safety glass.
55 kPa (8 psig) using tempered plate glass.
I 03 kPa ( 15 psig) using tempered plate glass.
A.423
c. d.
0
17
-
A.424-425, Fig. 18
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level III
8. Which of the following is the primary reason 12. When very large leaks go undetected during a
why the one gasket cross section shown in vacuum box bubble leak test, it is usually
question 7 is less desirable than the others? because the operator is:
a. It lacks adequate sealing surface after initial a. observing the leak detector solution for too
seating of the box. short a time period.
b. Air bubbles form between the two sealing tabs b. not observing the leak detector solution as the
causing foam to form in the box. box initially seats.
c. It requires the most amount of force to c. not maintaining pressure differential.
initially seat the box. d. using too much overlap between adjacent
d. The bottom of the gasket would collapse, settings of the vacuum box.
causing an uneven sealing surface. A.429
A.424
13. In addition to bubble leak testing, what other
9. The basic difference between a 35 kPa (5 psig) nondestructive testing method, with or without a
vacuum box bubble leak test and a bubble leak pressure differential, is most effective in the
test of a vessel pressurized to 35 kPa (5 psig) is detection of leaks through a pressure boundary?
the:
a. Magnetic particle testing.
a. type of leak detector solution that must be b. Liquid penetrant testing.
used. c. Holography testing.
b. allowable difference in ambient weather d. Ultrasonic testing.
conditions. B.SSO
c. technique used to obtain the pressure C.66
differential.
d. required length of observation time. 14. Which one of the following would be the easiest
A.403, 423, 427 and most economical technique for bubble leak
testing the pipe to shell weld of a small diameter
10. Which of the following would directly affect the flanged nozzle that has no reinforcing pad plate
performance of a leak detector solution for any and is flush with the inside of the shell?
technique of bubble leak testing?
a. Seal weld a pipe cap over the inner end of the
a. Cost. pipe, pressurize the pipe and bubble leak test
b. Surface tension. the weld.
c. Flash point. b. Install a plumber's plug in the inner end of the
d. Toxicity. pipe, blank the nozzle flange, pressurize the
A.392,402,406,428 pipe and bubble leak test the weld.
c. Install a plumber's plug in the inner end of the
pipe, blank the nozzle flange, evacuate the
11. In which one of the following types of metal pipe and bubble leak test the weld.
would a vacuum box bubble leak test be most d. Blank the nozzle flange and vacuum box
likely to show bubbles on the weld surface as a bubble leak test the weld from inside the shell.
result of false or spurious leakage from surface A.435, Fig. 26
folds or internal porosity open to the surface?
18
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level Ill
15. When writing a bubble leak testing procedure for 18. During the fiual pressure bubble leak test of an
the reinforcing pad plates with one weep hole, externally stiffened thin wall low pressnre
one simple way to ensure that the pad plate (14 kPa or 2 psig) vessel, bubbles are foimd
welds are really pressurized is to stipulate in the streaming from one of the continuous stiffener to
procedure that a: shell fillet welds. A possible cause could be:
a. second hole be drilled and tapped in the a. heating of the air trapped behind the stiffener
reinforcing plate for the installation of the fillet welds.
pressure gage. b. application of the solution with entrained air
b. second pressure gage be installed in one of the bubbles.
inside welds. c. failure to rat hole the stiffeners where they
c. notch be cut in the end of the pipe nipple to be cross shell butt welds which could contain
threaded into the reinforcing plate weep hole. leaks.
d. pressnre hold test be performed after the d. failure to initially examine the stiffener welds
bubble leak test. using liquid penetrant.
A.432 A.423, 431
16. Dnring a hydrostatic test of a vessel, water is 19. During the fiual pressure bubble leak test of a
detected running from the weep hole of a nozzle heavy wall vessel, test personnel repeatedly
reinforcing pad plate. At the time of the initial test observe the formation of small areas of white
of this reinforcing pad plate, no leakage was foam on shell butt welds that were already
detected when the outside reinforcing plate to pipe radiographed, vacuum box bubble leak tested and
and shell welds and the inside pipe to shell weld then painted. What they are observing is most
were leak tested. Assuming there was pressure probably caused by:
behind the pad plate dnring the initial test, the
sonrce of leakage is most likely caused by: a. foaming agent in the leak detector solution.
b. entrained air escaping from the paint.
a. slag inclusion through the shell behind the pad c. actual leaks missed dnring the vacuum box
plate. bubble leak test.
b. shell plate lamination at the nozzle cutout. d. trapped hydrogen escaping from the weld
c. burn through of the pipe wall covered by the metal.
reinforcing plate to pipe weld. A.394
d. toe crack in the pad plate to shell weld.
A.434
20. A customer's specification requires that every
2 h dnring the vacuum box bubble leak testing,
17. A thin wall stainless butt welded tank built on a the bubble formation properties of the leak
sloping concrete foundation is successfully tested detector solution must be verified with a test
and accepted by a customer. After being in leak. Which of the following is a method that
service a few weeks, very minute droplets of would solve this requirement?
product are detected coming from under the
bottom. After removing the product, a thorough a. In a plate slightly bigger than the vacuum box,
55 kPa (8 psi) vacuum box retest of the tank drill a very small hole and then peen the hole
bottom reveals no detectable leakage. Which of nearly shut.
the following would you recommend as the best b. Install a piece of tubing through the wall of
immediate conrse of action to locate the leakage? the vacuum box with the irmer end flattened
nearly shut.
a. Cover the bottom welds with epoxy sealant. c. Flatten both ends nearly shut on a short piece
b. Pressurize the tank with refrigerant and of small diameter tubing for use under the
perform a halogen sniffer test. vacuum box.
c. Coat the bottom with liquid penetrant; after a d. Any of the above.
long dwell time, remove the excess, apply A.426-428
developer and then apply a pressure
differential with a vacuum box and observe
the developer for indications.
d. Fill the tank with water containing marker dye
and watch for leakage containing the dye.
B.535
19
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level III
21. The customer test specification outlines 24. Which of the following is a minimum good
requirements for vacuum box bubble leak testing practice requirement on the part of the operator
liner plate welds. Because there is no additional while performing a bubble leak test?
gain to justify the additional cost, exception
should be taken to which of the following a. Develop a vacuum of at least 124 kPa
vacuum box bubble testing requirements? (36.5 in. Hg) on the specimen.
b. Be able to maintain pressure on the specimen
a. Minimum of 35 kPa (5 psi) pressure for at least 0.17 h.
differential. c. Be able to place the operator's eyes within
b. No indication of leakage while under pressure 61 em (24 in.) of the test surface when
for a minimum observation time of 60 s. observing the solution for leakage.
c. Verification of the bnbble forming properties d. Have 20/20 vision without correction (glasses)
of the solution every hour. in both eyes.
d. None of the above are economical. A.396, 410
A.429
25. Which of the following should be included in
22. When preparing a procedure for a 345 kPa bubble leak test procedures written for the best
(50 psig) pressure bubble leak test to be possible "good practice" operation?
performed in accordance with the minimum good
practice required for any pneumatic pressure test, a. Vacuum box must maintain a 35 kPa (5 psig)
which of the following would best fulfill the pressure differential for a minimum of at least
pressure gage requirements for testing this 0.17h.
system? b. Must be able to place operator's eyes at an
angle of not Jess than 10 degrees to the surface
a. Two 1.7 MPa (250 psi) dial indicating gages. being examined.
b. One 689 kPa (100 psi) dial indicating gage c. Temperature range of the test surface being
and one I MPa (150 psi) recording gage. exanrined.
c. One indicating dial gage with a range of d. None of the above.
I MPa (750 em Hg). A.395,416,425,428
d. None of the above.
A.409
26. Vacuum box bubble leak test procedures should
include which of the items listed below?
23. Which of the following is a minimum good
practice requirement for a bubble leak test a. Ability to detect leaks as small as
procedure? JQ-6 std cm3·s-1.
b. Maximum length of weld examined for each
a. Leak detector solution must be observed for setting of the vacuum box or the length of the
30 s after application of the pressure. vacuum box.
b. A pressure differential (partial vacuum) of at c. Minimum observation time of 0.17 h.
least 14 kPa (2 psi) should be maintained d. All of the above.
during the exanrination phase of a vacuum box A.430
bubble leak test.
c. A vacuum box for bubble leak testing must be
capable of holding a pressure differential of at 27. To write a best practice bubble leak test
least 207 kPa (30 psi). specification within the realm of economical
d. Lighting in the area being exanrined must be a operation and compliance with most codes,
minimum of 108 lx (10 ftc). which of the following parameters should be
included?
A.398, 419, 429
a. Minimum pressure (vacuum) differential
required.
b. Method of solution application.
c. Minimum observation time after solution
application.
d. All of the above.
A.430
20
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level III
28. Which of the components listed are essential for 32. A field crew is performing vacuum box bubble
a vacuum box for bubble leak testing? leak tests. What action would should be taken in
the following situation? An operator is testing the
a. Pressure regulator. job and notices poor fit up, very rough welds
b. Pop off type relief valve. with excess reinforcement. This is making leak
c. Transparent viewing window. testing very difficult and slowing the crew. What
d. All of the above. steps should be considered?
A.423-424
a. Request welds be ground relatively smooth to
remove excessive reinforcement.
29. Which of the items listed below are requirements b. Check with those who bid on the job - if
that should be included in a bubble leak test specifications stated good fit up and ground
specification? flush welds would be provided, then some
contract adjustment is indicated.
a. Detailed steps to follow in the performance of c. Revamp the vacuum box or vacuum box seals
the bubble leak test technique specified. to compensate for the poor fit up and/or
b. General statements regarding the theory excess reinforcement.
behind the specified test techniques. d. All of the above.
c. Specific standards or codes and any special A.394, 425
applicable test parameters.
d. All of the above.
A.430 33. The type of leak detector solution to use on a
particular job would normally be selected:
30. Which of the below are some of the specific a. in accordance with customer specification
items for operator compliance to be detailed in a and/or applicable code requirements and/or on
bubble leak test procedure? the basis of company procedures.
b. by the company purchasing agent or
a. A description of the scope and sequential department.
operation techniques and required specific c. by the Level I doing the testing.
parameters. d. on the basis of cost ouly.
b. Acceptance/rejection criteria with A.415, 430
reports/documentation required.
c. Personnel qualifications required.
d. All of the above. 34. An accurate quantitative measurement of the
A.429-430 total leakage rate of a pressurized vessel can be
determined by the bubble leak test method:
31. The best leak detector solutions routinely used a. if the pressure gage is calibrated to an
for bubble leak testing preferably should have accuracy of 0.07 kPa (0.01 psig).
what interaction with the surface of the test b. if the technician uses 10:1 magnification eye
specimens? glasses to estimate individual bubble sizes.
c. if the gage is graduated to National Bureau of
a. Ability to stick to the surface and not run off. Standards* standards.
b. Neutral (pH about 7) in chemical activity. d. none of the above.
c. Should dry rapidly to speed up testing. A.389, 412
d. Have good capillary action.
A.415
21
Bubble Leak Testing Method, Level III
22
Level ill Answers
Bubble Leak Testing Method
1 d 11 c 21 b 31 b
2 d 12 b 22 b 32 d
3 d 13 b 23 b 33 a
4 d 14 d 24 c 34 d
5 c 15 c 25 c 35 d
6 d 16 c 26 b 36 d
7 d 17 c 27 d 37 c
8 c 18 c 28 c
9 c 19 b 29 c
10 b 20 d 30 d
23
Sample Specification
Bubble Leak Testing Method
25
Bubble Leak Testing, Sample Specification
26
Bubble Leak Testing, Sample Specification
7. 1.3 The leak detection solution shall 7. 1.5 Vacuum box testing is not
be applied to the weld required on welds of access
immediately preceding the test. opening and penetrations which
A vacuum box containing a have had 100% radiographic
viewing window shall be placed examinations.
over the area to be tested and
evacuated to produce a 7.2 Pressure Bubble Leak Testing
differential of 35 to 55 k:Pa
(5 to 8 psig) with the 7 .2.1 As leak chase test channel
atmospheric pressure. A installations are completed
minimum overlap of 76 mm during erection, the liner welds
(3 in.) shall be provided between and test channel to liner welds
adjacent vacuum box locations. shall be bubble leak tested with
air to at least 310 k:Pa (45 psig).
7.1.4 Liner welds are acceptable if no
leakage is detected as evidenced 7 .2.2 The requirements of paragraph
by the absence of the formation 7.1.2 apply.
of bubbles.
7 .2.3 The welds are acceptable if no
leakage is detected as evidenced
by the absence of the formation
ofhubbles.
Table 1
Type of Weld I II III
Weld -1\~
Details ~ lL7 + 'II + ~ l~
11'
.2- ..?-
I\ I I
35 to 55 k:Pa 35 to 55 k:Pa -
VB Pressure - - -
(5 to 8 psig) (5 to 8 psig)
27
8.0 Nondestructive Testing Operator
Qualification:
8.1 Each operator perfomring and evaluating
nondestructive testing exanrinations and
tests on this Contract shall be qualified.
Records of their qualification shall be in
the Seller's file.
28
Sample Specification Questions
Bubble Leak Testing Method
The following questions, answers and references are 4. Vacuum box bubble leak testing is not required on
based on the preceding sample specification. this fictional contract for access opening and
penetration welds which have:
1. By this specification, the type of leak detector
solution that has be used to perform the required a. a thickness in excess of 13 mm (0.5 in.).
bubble leak testing is: b. been progressively magnetic particle tested.
c. been through liquid penetrant leak testing.
a. a mixtnre of glycerin, liquid soap and water. d. been tested I 00% by radiography.
b. Leak-Tee No. 577-V only. Para. 7.1.5
c. any specially prepared soap free solution
approved by the Engineers.
5. All welds bubble leak tested in accordance with this
d. water with methyl orange added.
specification are acceptable if:
Para. 7.1.2
a. no leakage is detected as evidenced by the
2. Before any bubble leak testing proceeds, this formation of nothing in excess of a single bubble.
specification requires that the procedure or b. all leakage detected is repaired.
procedures involved must have been reviewed and c. no leakage is detected as evidenced by the
stamped: absence of the formation of bubbles.
d. no leakage is detected except that which is
a. Approval or Approved as Revised/Released for considered of a virtual natnre.
Fabrication by the Engineers. Para. 7 .1.4 and 7.2.3
b. Approved by the Seller's Level III reviewer.
c. Approved by the Customer and Engineer's Site
6. For the vacuum box bubble leak testing performed
Inspector.
on this fictional contract, each setting or location of
d. Approved by the NRC and the Customer.
the vacuum box must have an overlap with the
Para. 6.3 adjacent setting or location of at least:
29
Bubble Leak Testing, Sample Specification Questions
a. I 4 kPa (2 psig).
b. 35 kPa (5 psig).
c. 55 kPa (8 psig).
d. 103 kPa (15 psig).
Para. 7.1.3 and Table 1
30
Sample Specification Answers
Bubble Leak Testing Method
1 c 6 c
2 a 7 d
3 a 8 a
4 d 9 b
5 c 10 b
31