ASTM D3078 Standard Test Method for Determination of Leaks in Flexible Packaging by BubbleEmission

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination of gross leaks in fexible packaging containing a headspace gas. Test sensi-tivity is

 limited to 1 x 10-s atm cm''s (1 x 106 Pa m’/s) oreven less sensitive as indicated in a recent interlaboratory test(reported in

 Section 12).

1.2 Small leaks may not be detected by this procedure.Viscoelastic efects on the produets, or entrapped air, become significant 

and prevent passage through small openings. Positive pressure inside the pouch after the vacuum is drawn may force the 

product to plug small leaks. The size of the leak that can be detected is dependent upon the products contained, the nature

 of the packaging material, and the test parameters selected.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard, The values given in parentheses are mathematical

 conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

4.Apparatus

4.1 Vacuum Chamber-Any transparent container capable of withstanding approximately one atmosphere pressure differential, 

fitted with a vacuum-tight cover, A vacuum gauge.an inlet tube from a source of vacuum, and an outlet tube to the atmosphere

 shall be connected to the chamber cover. The inlet and outlet tubes shall be equipped with hand valves. Attached to the

 underside of the cover shall be a transparent plate that will closely approximate the inside dimensions of the container 

and be such a distance from the top of the container that when it is two-thirds filled with Auid, the attached plate will be

 positioned l in. (25 mm) under the fuid.

Testing instruments:LT-02P Leak Tester