What is water resistance and how is it measured?

Tightness is a property that is based on the ability to prevent the entry of particles external to the internal part, circuit or interior, whether it be water, air, dust, etc. it is a basic term in various industries, manufacturing, mechanical repairs and maintenance vehicles, so let's take a closer look at what exactly is tightness and how it is measured.

Sealers and their work

Seals are components that are used to provide impermeability on both sides of the joint or to ensure tightness, in other words, to prevent leakage or ingress of external materials from outside. Their history is developing in parallel with the development of automotive industry at the beginning of the twentieth century. Since then, the seam has become an important element that prevents the leakage of grease in the event of wear or processing defects. In addition, they help to avoid emissions that pollute the environment and represent additional costs for car maintenance.

Seal Types

There are several types of seals:

• Flat
• Rings
• Flexible

These types of seals are used on various types of joints, depending on the model of the car and on the material of the parts that need to be sealed. It also depends on the liquid, which may contain an aggressive element (acids, oils, solvents, alkalis, viscous liquids, etc.).

There are also mixtures for forming gaskets.

Why is tightness so important?

As we have already noted, tightness is important in order to avoid leaks in various elements of the car. Seams in poor condition can result in loss of fluid or gas, which will adversely affect the operation of the system, for example, with regard to the fuel system or Air Conditioning.

In addition, tightness prevents external agents from entering the passenger compartment or vehicle components, thus preventing the ingress of dirt or other agents that could alter the composition of the fluid.

How do we measure tightness?

A device called a vacuum gauge is used to measure tightness. Its mode of operation is simple: a vacuum gauge measures the pressure drop from a location or other filler. This makes it easy to detect leaks because, if there are any, the pressure drops.

There are various gauges. The most common are mechanical. These gauges work like a traditional pressure gauge and can measure the pressure of liquids or gases.