Finding vacuum leaks

Problem: Typical vacuum petcocks are factory greased. After several years, the grease dries out and they leak. Finding leaks in vacuum petcocks in lab or processing areas is difficult.

By Staff September 1, 1999

Problem: Typical vacuum petcocks are factory greased. After several years, the grease dries out and they leak. Finding leaks in vacuum petcocks in lab or processing areas is difficult.

Solution: Place a rubber pipette bulb over each petcock inlet. If the petcock is leaking, the pipette bulb collapses within seconds.

Contributor: Michael J. Bandy, Eli Lilly & Co., Indianapolis, IN; 317-276-9165