ForTest has introduced the Series K, a new range of air leak testing instruments designed to address evolving nondestructive evaluation requirements across industrial manufacturing environments.
The Series K includes seven models developed for leak testing applications across sectors such as automotive, hydraulics, biomedical, packaging, aerospace, and home appliances. Air leak testing remains a widely used nondestructive testing method for verifying component integrity under pressure or vacuum conditions, enabling full-scale inspection without damaging the tested part.
The newly launched systems are equipped with communication protocols to support advanced automation and are integrated with the MyForTest cloud platform for centralised test data management. This reflects increasing industry demand for inspection systems capable of integrating into Industry 4.0-driven production ecosystems.
The Series K is structured into three form factor categories. The compact K3 models—K3060, K3890, and K3990—are designed for direct integration into automated cells. The K5 model K5990 serves as a stand-alone entry-level solution, while the K7000 series—K7090, K7890, and K990—targets production environments requiring higher levels of connectivity and configurability.
In terms of measurement capabilities, the systems support multiple leak detection methodologies. Absolute pressure decay measurement, used in models K3990, K5990, and K7990, monitors pressure variation over time through dedicated transducers. Differential measurement, available in models K3060, K3890, and K7890, compares pressure against a reference sample.
The K7090 model incorporates ForTest’s Dual Absolute technology, which uses two independent absolute transducers to generate a differential signal. This model also integrates four software-selectable measurement modes: Absolute decay, Classic differential, Dual Absolute, and Zero Central. According to the manufacturer, the absence of wear-prone mechanical components in this configuration reduces maintenance requirements.
All Series K models include standard connectivity features such as RS232, RS485, USB interfaces, Ethernet, and wireless Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modules. The systems also provide digital I/O connectivity for integration with automated production lines.
The K7000 series further supports optional industrial communication protocols including Modbus RTU, Profinet, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, and ForTest’s proprietary protocol. Additional I/O capabilities enable integration with PLC, SCADA, and MES systems, supporting seamless incorporation into digital manufacturing workflows.
Each unit is compatible with the MyForTest cloud platform, which enables recording and analysis of test parameters such as pressure, temperature, leakage values, and pass/fail results. The platform also provides statistical tools for process monitoring and is accessible via standard web browsers without dedicated software installation.
The operator interface is standardised across the range, featuring a capacitive touchscreen with a 5.7-inch colour TFT display, LED-based status indication, and a protected front panel with tempered glass. The systems also support secure, password-protected programming.
The Series K systems offer measurement accuracy of ±0.5% RDG+3DGT for differential testing, resolution down to 0.001 mbar, and operational ranges from –1 to 15 bar, supporting precision leak detection requirements in industrial quality control processes.
Reference: https://www.engineerlive.com/content/series-k-fortest-industrial-leak-testing
