Burst and Seal Strength Flexible Package Testing
What is Burst Strength Package Integrity Testing?
Burst strength testing quickly evaluates package seal strength during the transportation life cycle. A burst pressure test is commonly used to validate that flexible package seals can withstand internal pressure changes encountered during shipping and sterilization.
More specifically, burst strength testing assesses seal integrity when uniform pressure exposes a package until the weakest part of the seal separates. This test only provides a rapid indication of where a burst of a seal may normally occur in one or more areas.
Overall, pressure changes can arise during processes such as sterilization or transportation. Examples of pressure differentials include the transportation of packages by a plane or over high mountain tops.
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Why is Burst Strength Package Testing Important?
Poor packaging can be expensive, causing return shipments and product repairs. It can also lead to a decline in reputation. Burst strength testing will ultimately ensure adequate package integrity when a package arrives at the end-user.
Additionally, burst test packaging evaluations are critical for identifying seal weaknesses before products enter the distribution cycle.
For example, manufacturers commonly use this test for medical device packaging. However, manufacturers also use burst strength testing in industries such as pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and food packaging. Burst Strength package testing helps products remain sterilized, intact, and/or fresh during the distribution cycle.
Burst strength package testing ensures compliance with industry standards and regulations. This is particularly important in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries, where product safety is vital.
Furthermore, burst strength testing is important because it can save manufacturers time and money in the long run. By identifying potential weak seals before products are shipped, manufacturers can make necessary adjustments to packaging materials and processes. This helps ensure product integrity and reduce costly returns or repairs.
Bursting Strength Test Process
Engineers can conduct burst strength testing using multiple methods. However, each test uses similar core components.
Sample Preparation and Conditioning
First, the engineer selects a sample size to allow for an adequate determination of representative performance. This can range from 30 to 60 samples. After, the engineer conditions the samples to normal ambient temperatures and humidity.
Generally, average temperature and humidity range from 20 to 40 degrees C and 35% to 50% humidity. If the test occurs outside standard conditions, the engineer must record the data.
Testing Procedure And Reporting
The testing procedure starts by fitting the package into restraining plates or placing the specimen into a specific test apparatus. The test requires a calibrated burst test machine to apply controlled internal pressure and accurately record seal failure points.
Next, the engineer applies pressure to the unit until a failure occurs. A failure occurs when an area of the package ruptures as a result of pressurization.
Lastly, the engineer writes a report considering the following key information:
- Test method performed
- Date, time, location, and name of the engineer performing the test
- Conditioning parameters used for the test
- Results of the test, including where the failure occurred, and the pressure value of the apparatus during the time of burst
- A summary of the test such as comments or conclusions
Keystone’s Burst Strength Test Equipment and Capabilities
Our state-of-the-art burst strength test equipment allows Keystone to provide expert package testing solutions. We offer immediate emergency scheduling, constant communication, and product troubleshooting.
As a result, advanced burst testing equipment ensures consistent, repeatable results that support regulatory compliance and quality assurance. Keystone Package Testing utilizes numerous shakers and dynamic shock machines. We provide the peace of mind that all your package integrity needs are met under one roof.
ASTM F1140: Burst and Creep Testing
ASTM F1140 determines the ability of a package to withstand internal pressurization. The bursting strength of a package indicates the maximum internal pressure the seal can endure before failure.
ASTM F1140 compliance testing uses two methods. The bursting strength test increasingly pressurizes the package until failure. The creep test maintains a specified pressure for a certain amount of time or until failure. A package failure refers to the rupture of a seal or material.
ASTM F2054: Burst Testing of Package Seals
F2054 Burst Testing evaluates a seal on the perimeter of a flexible package as the test internally pressurizes and encloses it within restraining plates. Additionally, ASTM F2054 assesses the package for any leak that may occur during the process.
ASTM F2054 provides rapid means to evaluate the tendencies for package seal failure when the package is exposed to a pressure differential. These may occur during sterilization and transportation. The burst test internally pressurizes the package until an area of the package seal around the perimeter fails or “bursts” open, measuring the package’s bursting strength.
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Expert Laboratory Package Testing
Keystone provides customers with the peace of mind that all their package integrity needs are met. In turn, this will ultimately allow customers to focus on R&D rather than package compliance. Customers recognize us for our immediate scheduling, constant communication, and product troubleshooting.
In addition to burst strength testing, Keystone has an extensive scope of testing such as altitude, compression, and sterile barrier. Lastly, have a question about burst strength or flexible packaging testing? Contact us, and we will determine the best course of action.
Interested in the EMC/EMI, climatic, dynamic, shielding effectiveness, or IP Code testing of a product? Follow the corresponding links or www.keystonecompliance.com for more information.