This test method covers the determination of gross leaks in flexible packaging containing a headspace gas by bubble emission. A vacuum chamber shall be any transparent container capable of withstanding approximately one atmosphere pressure differential, fitted with a vacuum-tight cover. A vacuum gage, an inlet tube from a source of vacuum, and an outlet tube to the atmosphere shall be connected to the chamber cover. Use an immersion fluid which does not degrade the package being tested. The test sample and test fluid shall be at equilibrium with normal room temperature. The procedures for testing are presented in details.

This abstract is a brief summary of the referenced standard. It is informational only and not an official part of the standard; the full text of the standard itself must be referred to for its use and application. ASTM does not give any warranty express or implied or make any representation that the contents of this abstract are accurate, complete or up to date.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination of gross leaks in flexible packaging containing a headspace gas. Test sensitivity is limited to 1 × 10⁻⁵ atm cm³/s (1 × 10⁻⁶ Pa m³/s) or even less sensitive as indicated in a recent interlaboratory test (reported in Section 12).

1.2 Small leaks may not be detected by this procedure. Viscoelastic effects on the products, or entrapped air, become significant and prevent passage through small openings. Positive pressure inside the pouch after the vacuum is drawn may force the product to plug small leaks. The size of the leak that can be detected is dependent upon the products contained, the nature of the packaging material, and the test parameters selected.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

E425 Definitions of Terms Relating to Leak Testing

E515 Practice for Leaks Using Bubble Emission Techniques

F98 Recommended Practice for Determining Hermeticity of Electron Devices by aBubble Test

Keywords

Performance--containers/packaging/shipping; Container leakage; Heat-sealed packages; Leak testing--packaging applications/containers; Packing/packaging materials/systems;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 55.040 (Packaging materials and accessories)

Citing ASTM Standards

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