ASTM F2095 Leak Testing for Flexible Packages
ASTM F2095 leak testing determines the effectiveness of flexible medical packages. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, Keystone Package Testing realizes the importance of flexible integrity package testing. Meeting the ASTM F2095 compliance requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.
Keystone provides the peace of mind that all of your needs will be met. We have a reputation for helping customers achieve their package certifications. Keystone Package Testing creates an accurate test plan to eliminate expensive over-testing. Our experienced engineers are in constant communication throughout the test process.
Request a quote to see why so many companies partner with Keystone Package Testing. Contact us to receive more information on leak testing.
Summary of Flexible Package Integrity Testing With and Without Restraining Plates
ASTM F2095 standard testing covers the measurement of leaks in nonporous film, foil, or laminate flexible pouches. The enclosed material should not come into contact with water, oils, or other liquids.
F2095 flexible package integrity testing detects leak rates in flexible packages. However, the leak rate is dependent on package volume as tested. Two test methods are explained below. It should be noted that the methods are destructive in that they require entry into the package.
Conditions should be used to obtain the same temperatures that exist on the test apparatus. Samples are made to allow the operator to refer to the specific test samples while recording test information and results.
ASTM 2095 Flexible Package Laboratory Testing Procedures
Sampling and Conditioning
First, the samples are cut ensuring specified dimensions in accordance to the ASTM standard. Generally, I minimum of 5 samples are required. Next, the samples are conditioned in a controlled environment.
Testing
Test Method A, pressure decay leak test allows the packages to be tested without restraint. Within test method A, the pouch, tray, or other type packages will contain a volume of air. This is defined by its mechanical configuration and its ability to resist the internal pressure applied. The ASTM F2095 test method requires the package to be at a stable volume configuration.
On the other hand, Method B allows the use of rigid restraining plates against the walls of the package. This helps limit the volume while stabilizing the package volume. ASTM F2095 method B provides a standard to establish reports to find failures within the lab rather than within the field. It is used to detect small leaks rapidly in flexible seals or walls.
Report
A report given at the end of testing includes general information such as date, time, location, and test engineer. The report includes details of the package such as the type of material and other characteristics. Lastly, the number of packages tested and the number of failures are recorded, as well as any conditioning.
Specific information from this report consists of the package type, size, and materials. In addition, the report should include whether the package was tested empty or filled with product.
Significance of ASTM F2095 Pressure Decay Testing
The ASTM F2095 standard is important because it enables manufacturers to ensure the quality, performance, and safety of flexible barrier materials. By conducting standardized tests, packaging companies can meet regulatory requirements, evaluate material performance, drive research and development, and ultimately deliver reliable and satisfactory packaging solutions to consumers.
Performance Evaluation
Flexible packages are subjected to various stresses during transportation, storage, and handling. ASTM F2095 testing allows manufacturers and users to evaluate the performance of different materials under specific loading conditions.
Compliance to Industry Standards
Oftentimes, when flexible packaging is used for products such as food or pharmaceuticals, these packages must meet regulatory requirements. ASTM F2095 provides standardized testing to evaluate the properties of flexible packaging.
Consumer Safety and Satisfaction
Flexible packages are often in direct contact with consumer products, making it important to maintain the product’s quality and safety. ASTM F2095 testing helps identify potential weaknesses or flaws in flexible materials, allowing manufacturers to rectify them before they reach the market. This in turn, ensures that consumers receive products packaged with materials that were rigorously tested for their ability to withstand stresses.
Expert Pressure Decay Leak Package Testing
Keystone has a full scope of expertise including sterile barrier, temperature validation, and vibration in addition to flexible package testing. We can accommodate flexible and rigid packages of all sizes, including large pallets. Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling.
Ready to get your packaged product tested and analyzed? Request a quote and learn first hand why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their flexible package certifications.
For more referenced ASTM standards and similar testing, please follow the links below:
- D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
- E177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods
- E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
- F17 Terminology Relating to Primary Barrier Packaging
- ANSI/AAMI/ISO 11607–1:2006 Packaging for Terminally Sterilized Medical Devices—Part 1: Requirements for Materials, Sterile Barrier Systems, and Packaging Systems
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