Nitrogen is one of the most common elements in the atmosphere so it is popularly used in a lot of industrial operations especially in gas leak testing. When choosing materials for industrial, commercial or residential purposes, it is practical to use common and easy to source materials. This is why many industries prefer nitrogen gas among other options.
Leaks are usually hard to find until it is too late. It is crucial to find and locate the leaks while they are still minute and in the early stages. The problem is, system residues like sludge or dirt hide the small leaks and make them harder to detect and locate. What makes leaks even harder to find is the fact that when you are testing for gas leaks, you will need to shut off the whole system for safety purposes.
Advantages of Using Nitrogen for Gas Leak Testing
There are many reasons why nitrogen gas is used for gas leak testing but here are the top reasons why:
- – Nitrogen is a common gas so it is easier to source and cheaper to collect.
- – Nitrogen is an inert gas. This means it does not react or resist or undergo any chemical reaction. This is much safer to use for pipes and the people handling the testing.
- – Nitrogen is dry so it is not messy and is more convenient to handle given that you use the proper safety protective gear.
- – It is also non-flammable. This is important because the possibility of a gas leak itself is dangerous and risky, which means you aren’t adding another flammable gas to the equation.
- – It does not react with oil and other components that might be present in the pipe.
- – Nitrogen can detect leaks faster than other materials.
- – It is also a cheaper option than tracer gas testing.
- – It provides increased sensitivity and improved accuracy in detecting gas leaks.
- – Nitrogen is non-toxic.
Safety Precaution and Warning:
Nitrogen needs to be used and handled with the utmost care. Nitrogen is colourless, odourless, and tasteless. It cannot be detected by the human senses. Nitrogen can cause asphyxiation when inhaled. The nitrogen itself may not cause any direct harm to your organs but if you inhale pure nitrogen, you can die from asphyxiation. You need oxygen to breathe so if you inhale pure nitrogen, you can become unconscious and potentially die.
Let the Professionals Handle It
When it comes to gas leaks, never attempt a DIY solution. Always put your safety and the safety of your loved ones first. When you experience the first signs or symptoms of a gas leak, do not go looking for the sources, perform the following steps instead:
- – Take everyone outside including your pets. Stay as far away from the area as possible.
- – Keep windows and doors open. Before you go out, make sure the house or the office – space is airy enough.
- – Call 000 immediately.
- – Call your local authorities like your local fire station.
- – Call your gas provider.
- – Wait for the problem to be resolved before going back to the premises.
Regular Check and Maintenance
When it comes to gas leaks, prevention is definitely better than cure. Schedule a regular maintenance routine for your gas lines. This is the best way to avoid any accidents. A check up once or twice a year should suffice.
If you are in Melbourne and neighbouring suburbs, please call Water Leak Detection at 1300 425 325. We use tracer gas detection methods in finding water and gas leaks which is non-destructive and more efficient. It is easy, quick and non-invasive. It is also safe for the environment, for you, your pets and for your family.
With Water Leak Detection, your safety is our priority.
