How to Check for Minor Leaks in a Fuel Transfer Tank

First, clean the fuel transfer tank's surface of dust, oil, and other debris, ensuring a clean surface that is easily visible for minor signs of leakage.

• Focus on inspecting the tank itself, welds, joints, and the connection between the valve and the pipe
• These areas are common locations for minor leaks
• Carefully inspect for signs of oil infiltration
• Look for darkening of the surface, wet patches, or a light film of oil
• These could indicate minor leaks causing slow fuel seepage
• Inspect the tank bottom and surrounding ground
• Look for irregular, light-colored oil stains
• If other contamination sources are ruled out, inspect the tank wall at corresponding locations

Prepare a dedicated leak detection liquid. This liquid typically has good penetrating and foaming properties, quickly revealing minor leaks.

• Apply the liquid evenly to key areas of the tank
• Focus on welds, joints, and valve seals
• Maintain an even coating thickness to avoid missing leaks
• After allowing the liquid to sit, inspect for bubbles
• Leaking gas or fuel will cause persistent, small bubbles
• The location of bubbles indicates the leak source
• After testing, wipe away remaining liquid with a clean cloth
• Prevent corrosion on the tank surface

Use a portable gas detector. These instruments can accurately measure the concentration of fuel vapor in the air and are suitable for detecting small leaks that are difficult to detect visually.

• Slowly move the detector's probe over the tank's joints, welds, and around valves
• Maintain a consistent distance from the tank surface for accurate data
• If gas concentrations outside normal range are detected, mark the area
• Significant concentration increases indicate small leaks
• Ensure the operating environment is well ventilated
• Prevent fuel vapor accumulation from affecting test results
• Strictly follow the detector's operating instructions for safety

First, seal the fuel transfer tank and close all inlet and outlet valves to ensure the tank is airtight. Slowly fill the tank with inert gas using a dedicated pressure device to achieve a stable pressure.

• Proceed slowly during pressurization to avoid sudden pressure increases
• Sudden pressure changes could damage the tank
• After pressure stabilizes, record the initial pressure value
• Let the tank sit and regularly observe pressure changes
• If pressure continues to drop, it indicates a small leak
• Exclude errors in pressure monitoring devices
• Consider effects of temperature changes on pressure
• The speed and magnitude of pressure drop indicate leak severity
• Provides reference for subsequent leak location and repair