Flexible Package Testing
What is Flexible Package Integrity Testing?
A flexible package refers to a package consisting of non-rigid materials. Generally, manufacturers use paper, foil, or plastics to create malleable pouches or bags.
Flexible package integrity testing evaluates flexible packaging materials under simulated environmental hazards. This test type is not limited to one standard; industry guidelines recommend subjecting flexible peel pouches to multiple test methods.
Therefore, the flexible packaging industry relies on standardized integrity testing to maintain performance across diverse materials and applications.
In addition, flexible package compliance testing also helps discover harmful contaminants that may enter the flexible package through leaks. These leaks frequently occur at seals between package components made of the same or dissimilar materials.
As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified laboratory, Keystone Package Testing recognizes the critical role of flexible package integrity testing in regulatory compliance. eeting flexible peel pouch regulatory and performance requirements can be challenging, and Keystone guides companies through the process. Contact us to receive more information about regulatory peel pouch compliance testing.
Why is Flexible Package Integrity Testing Important?
Flexible package compliance testing evaluates flexible packages using different testing procedures. More specifically, this test type uses bubble emission, seal strength, and burst strength testing. It assesses the integrity and sterilization of a flexible packaging system.
As companies adopt sustainable flexible packaging, integrity testing ensures that thinner or alternative materials still meet performance requirements.
Peel pouches provide great benefits to industries such as the Food & Beverage, Personal Care, Medical Device, and Pharmaceutical industries. Flexible packaging used within these industries may include single-use medications, resealable candy bags, and household cleaning products. The benefits of using flexible packaging include:
- Lower material and packaging costs
- Customization of package design
- User-friendly packaging
- Light-weight packaging for easy transport
- Extended shelf life
Additionally, flexible packaging sustainability efforts depend on reliable testing to reduce waste caused by package failure.
Conversely, a poorly packaged product can be expensive and lead to a decline in sales, lost customer loyalty, and constant interruptions and delays.
When dealing with pharmaceutical and medical devices, flexible pouches must remain sterile throughout the entire transportation cycle. If a packaged product unintentionally bursts or opens, the contents can suffer damage or product loss.
No matter the hazard, packaging costs can be substantially reduced or eliminated with proper testing and certification.
Keystone’s Flexible Package Testing Equipment and Capabilities
Keystone uses numerous pressure delivery systems, vacuum chambers, and custom test fixtures to support validated, repeatable package integrity testing. Our dozens of thermal chambers range from small reach-in to large walk-in chambers up to 1,300 cu. ft.
Additionally, Keystone Package Testing operates multiple shakers, compression machines, and dynamic shock machines to provide peace of mind that all your package integrity needs are met under one roof.
Below are 2 flexible package test standards that Keystone most commonly performs.
ASTM F1929 Detecting Leaks in Medical Packaging
ASTM F1929 evaluates materials and procedures that detect and locate leak channels greater than 50 microns. These channels form between a transparent material and a porous sheet material. In laboratory applications, this method allows technicians to visually identify seal defects that may compromise sterile barriers
Note that ASTM F1929 is not a quantitative standard, meaning no indication of leak size can be inferred from these tests. Generally, laboratories use these tests on a pass or fail basis.
ASTM F1929 can be performed with 2 different approaches. Method A is the injection method. This is carried out by injecting a dye penetrant into the package to cover the longest edge. Method B is the edge drip method. Technicians select a container long enough to accommodate the longest sealed edge. Then, technicians pour dye into the container to cover the bottom surface.
ASTM F2096 Detecting Gross Leaks by Internal Pressurization (Bubble Test)
ASTM F2096 detects gross leaks in packaging down to 250 microns with an 81% probability. Manufacturers use this standard for tray and pouch packages. However, the sensitivity of this test does not include porous materials other than spun-bonded polyolefin or with nonporous packaging.
To perform this test, technicians inflate the package underwater to a predetermined pressure. Inspectors then observe the packaging for a steady stream of air bubbles, indicating a failure area.
Expert Regulatory Package Compliance Test Laboratory
Keystone maintains a fully equipped testing laboratory that supports short scheduling lead times. In addition to flexible package integrity testing, Keystone Package Testing has a full scope of expertise including bubble leak, compression, and vibration. Our team helps customers focus more time and energy on product development instead of testing.
Ultimately, the future of flexible packaging depends on advanced testing capabilities that support innovation while meeting regulatory demands.
Contact us to learn why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their package compliance and certification needs. Request a quote and find out first hand about our competitive pricing, timely process, and outstanding reputation.
For more information on flexible package compliance testing, please refer to the following standards.
- ASTM D3078 Leaks in Flexible Packaging by Bubble Emission
- ASTM F88 Seal Strength Testing of Flexible Barrier Materials
- ASTM F1886 Integrity of Seals for Flexible Packaging
- ASTM F1929 Detecting Leaks in Medical Packaging
- ASTM F2054 Burst Testing of Flexible Seals Using Internal Air Pressurization
- ASTM F2095 Leak Testing for Flexible Packages
- ASTM F2096 Detecting Gross Leaks by Internal Pressurization (Bubble Test)
Don’t see a standard you are looking for? 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.