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ASTM F3039 Leak Testing

ASTM F3039: Leak and Dye Penetration Testing

ASTM 3039 leak penetration testing assesses the performance of flexible packages and pouches. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of Leak and dye penetration testing. Meeting the ASTM nonporous packaging or flexible barrier 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. Lastly, our testing engineers are in constant communication throughout the entire test process.

Request a quote to see why so many companies partner with Keystone Package Testing. Contact us to receive more information on F3039 testing.

Summary of Dye Penetration Integrity Transportation Testing

ASTM F3039 is a procedure that will detect leak sites and package integrity. However, the testing is not quantitative. No leak size can be determined from the penetration test. Therefore, this method is stated to be a go/no-go test. Ingress or egress of gas or moisture through leaks in a package can degrade sensitive contents.

Lastly, these standard test methods are destructive. Meaning that the samples should not be used for final product packaging. This standard does not address all of the safety concerns associated with its use.

Scope of ASTM 3039 Penetration Compliance Testing

ASTM 3039 package testing covers dye penetrant solution into the package of the seal. Channels formed will be detected within 5 seconds. The package is rotated as necessary to expose each seal edge. This is conducted so that the dye penetrant can ensure complete exposure.

An optical device may be used for detailed examination. If the package is opaque or additional verification is chosen, the outside edge of the seal being tested is placed against an absorbent surface. After lifting the package, it is studied for the presence of stains. These stains indicate a channel or leak.

Dye and leak penetration testing involves cutting the package so that the material can lay flat. The pad is then saturated with a dye solution. Once the areas of interest of the sample have been wiped with dye, the surface is examined for stains.

Pressure is applied to the sample to ensure adequate contact between the adsorbent surface and the bottom of the surface being tested. Next, the excess dye is wiped from the surface using an absorbent pad and lifted. Any stains present on the surface indicate a hole or leak. The test material may consist of a complete packaged product to assess the package for channels in seals or leaks in the surface of the material.

Lastly, a test report is created including the following information:

  • Date, time, location and test engineer
  • Type of material used
  • Number of packages tested
  • Number of failures recorded (if any)
  • Dye penetrant formulation
  • Test results

Significance of ASTM 3039 Dye Penetration Integrity Testing

By subjecting the specimens to controlled tensile loads, the test determines important parameters such as ultimate tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and strain-to-failure.

Additionally, the ASTM D3039 standard allows for consistent and reliable comparison of different composite materials. With a well-defined testing methodology, researchers and industry professionals can evaluate and compare the performance of various composites, helping them make informed decisions when selecting materials for specific applications.

Industries with stringent safety and performance requirements, such as aerospace and automotive, often rely on composite materials. Adhering to the ASTM D3039 standard ensures that the manufactured composites meet specified criteria and can reliably withstand tensile loads. This standardization allows manufacturers to demonstrate compliance with regulatory bodies, industry standards, and customer specifications, enhancing trust and confidence in the product.

Expert Leak and Dye Penetration Laboratory Package Testing

Keystone has a full scope of expertise including sterile barrier, temperature validation, and vibration in addition to leaks in nonporous 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 products tested and analyzed? Request a quote and see why so many companies and manufacturers use us to achieve their ASTM F3039 package needs.

 

For more referenced ASTM standards and similar testing, please follow the links below:

 

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.