During leak testing, what type of gas is preferred for its non-reactive properties?

The preferred gas for leak testing due to its non-reactive properties is nitrogen. Nitrogen is an inert gas that does not easily react with other substances, making it ideal for detecting leaks in medical gas systems. When used in testing, it helps to ensure that the system remains uncontaminated and that the results are not affected by chemical reactions that could occur with more reactive gases.

Using nitrogen allows for a safe and effective method of leak detection since it does not pose any hazards associated with flammable or reactive gases, and it is easily available and cost-effective. This is particularly important in medical settings where maintaining the integrity of gas delivery systems is crucial for patient safety and equipment functionality.

In contrast, gases like oxygen, argon, or carbon dioxide have specific properties that may make them less suitable for leak testing. Oxygen is highly reactive and can create explosive mixtures, especially if there are any leaks in a system. Argon, while also inert, is less commonly used in pressure testing compared to nitrogen. Carbon dioxide, while it can be used for certain applications, has its own set of characteristics that could complicate testing, such as its tendency to react under certain conditions.