ASTM F2096 is a standard established by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) that describes a test method for detecting leaks in flexible or rigid packaging under differential pressure. This method is commonly used to assess the integrity of welds or seals in products such as pouches, bags and thermoformed packaging. The following is a general description of the ASTM F2096 test method.
Test ASTM F2096 sur du poisson emballé sous-vide
Test principle :
The ASTM F2096 test is based on the principle of leak detection by applying a differential pressure across a sealed package. If leaks are present in the seal, air or gas can escape or penetrate, creating a measurable pressure variation.
Unlike the ASTM D3078 or D5094 methods, we do not apply a vacuum but pressurise the packaging. This is done using a needle and a pressurisation device.
Equipment required:
To carry out the ASTM F2096 test, you will need the following items:
- Packaging samples: Select representative samples of the packaging you wish to test. Ensure that they are filled in accordance with the conditions specified in the standard.
- Test chamber: A sealed chamber with openings for the pipes and fittings required to apply the differential pressure.
- Pressure device: A device capable of creating a controlled pressure differential on either side of the sealed package.
- Pressure-measuring device: A pressure gauge or other pressure-measuring device is needed to detect variations in pressure.
Test stages :
Here are the general steps for carrying out the ASTM F2096 test:
- Prepare the samples: Fill the packaging samples in accordance with the standard specifications.
- Place the packaging in the test chamber: Position the packaging so that it is hermetically sealed in the test chamber. Immerse the samples in a transparent liquid, preferably one that will allow you to see the bubbles properly in the event of a leak.
- Apply differential pressure (between 0 and 50 mbar) using the pressure device to create a controlled differential pressure in the pack. This differential pressure causes the pack to inflate.
- Bubble visualisation: See if bubbles appear on the pack when it is subjected to pressure.
- Analysis of results: If bubbles appear in a specific area of the sample, we can conclude that this area is leaking.
- Documentation: Carefully record the results of the test, including any leaks detected, the methods used and the test parameters.
As with any test method, accurately following the guidelines in ASTM F2096 is crucial to obtaining reliable and meaningful results. Standards and test methods can evolve, so it’s important to consult the latest version of the standard and seek expert advice if necessary.
You would like support in implementing the ASTM F2096 standard. If you would like to know which parameters should be applied to your samples, please contact us.
Other test methods
- ASTM D3078 – Immersion tests on flexible packaging
- ASTM D4991 – Tests on empty rigid packaging.
- ASTM D5094 – Tests on filled rigid packaging.
- ASTM D6653 – Altitude simulation on packaging
- ASTM F2096 – Internal pressurisation tests for packaging
- ISO 8871-5 annexe D – Dye penetration tests on medical packaging
- DIN EN 1779 – Non-destructive testing of flexible packaging