Design of a Leak Detector Assisted by High-Insulation Relays

A certain research institute is undertaking a project to develop a leak detector that utilizes helium or hydrogen gas as a tracer gas. The gas is detected using a mass spectrometer that is connected to a gas analyzer. During the leak detection process, the gas is sprayed onto the test object that is equipped with the gas analyzer. If the object has any leaks, the gas analyzer will react, enabling the operator to identify the location and magnitude of the leaks.

Due to the collection of weak current signals (involving multiple channels) at the signal acquisition end, a relay with an insulation resistance of up to 10^14 ohms is required to switch the signals. The signals are then amplified using an operational amplifier and converted using an ADC before being processed by a microcontroller unit (MCU). The newly designed HVFR-HI series of high-insulation relays from Micronal Company is ideal for this application.

Features of the HVFR-HI series of high-voltage and high-insulation reed relays include:

  • Available in 1A/2A/3A/4A contact forms
  • Switching voltage of up to 1kV, with an instantaneous maximum of 2kV
  • Switching current of 1A, with pulse currents of 5A/10A/20A
  • Withstand voltage of over 3kV and insulation resistance of over 100T ohms
  • Switching time of less than 1.2ms and a lifespan of over a billion operations

By selecting the HVFR-HI series of high-insulation relays, the following advantages can be achieved:

  1. Excellent insulation performance, with an insulation resistance of up to 100 Tohm, providing effective isolation. Traditional mechanical relays cannot achieve such a high insulation resistance.
  2. The contacts are completely sealed, making the product suitable for use in harsh testing environments that may be contaminated by dust or moisture.
  3. The special contact material used in the HVFR-HI series makes it particularly suitable for switching weak currents from the signal acquisition end (signal switching).
  4. The relay has a certain withstand voltage capability, with a breakdown voltage of up to 3KVDC.
  5. High reliability and a long lifespan (billions of operations).
  6. Compact and small in size, making it suitable for installation in limited spaces and ideal for miniaturized equipment.
  7. Multiple contact forms are available (standard products have 1-4 channels) to choose from.