Vacuum Tube Leak Detector Kit — 9836

Vacuum tube leak detector kit for pinpointing leaking heat-exchanger and condenser tubes. Use it with a snap-type tube plug for one-person testing, or with the supplied T-handle plug for two-person testing.

The Vacuum Tube Leak Detector Kit 9836 pinpoints leaking tubes in condensers, heat exchangers and other tubular equipment. It uses plant air through a venturi to create vacuum in the tube; a steady gauge reading indicates a sound tube, while a falling reading indicates a leak.

One-person or two-person tube testing

For one-person testing, seal the far end with a snap-type tube plug matched to the tube ID (ordered separately), press the rubber-coated nozzle into the near end and hold the trigger until the vacuum reaches the required level. Release the trigger and monitor the gauge.

For two-person testing, use the supplied T-handle tube plug at the far end while the second operator uses the detector assembly. This avoids the need for a separate snap-type plug.

Performance and kit contents

Typical test time: 6–8 seconds for a 1 in. OD, 20-gauge, 20 ft tube using clean, dry 90 psi air.
Tool weight: 2 1/4 lb; muffler-equipped for quieter operation in confined areas.
Standard Kit No. 9836: detector, 41460-1003 nozzle for 5/8–1 1/4 in. OD tubes, 12 ft hose assembly, T-handle tube plug, carrying case and service manual.

Tube-size coverage and access options

Additional nozzles cover 1/4–3 in. OD tubes: 41460-1002 (1/4–3/4 in.), 41460-1003 (5/8–1 1/4 in.), 41460-1004 (1 1/8–2 in.) and 41460-1005 (1 7/8–3 in.). Nozzle extensions are available for hard-to-reach header boxes.

Related vacuum testing equipment

For an alternative vacuum-testing package with conical seals and support rods, see the EST G250 vacuum tube testing guns. Contact Justram with your tube size, wall thickness, access arrangement and test quantity so we can help specify the appropriate kit, nozzle and plug.