Underwater Vacuum Leak Test
ASTM D3078 Standard Test Method for Determination of Air Leaks in Flexible Packaging by Bubble Emission The ASTM vacuum leak test goes by a number of different names, including submersion leak test, underwater immersion test, or submersion test. Regardless of the title, this testing method is a procedure where a package is submerged underwater and visually inspected for leaks via the emission of bubbles.
Industry Application
Underwater vacuum leak testing is a whole-package integrity test. It is typically performed on rigid packaging systems, such as bottles or vials. Underwater vacuum leak testing is most often part of a closure validation, or transit or shelf life simulations. The sensitivity of this test is 250 microns. It is performed by submerging the package in a water-filled vacuum chamber and observing for a steady stream of bubbles, indicating a breach of the sterile barrier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Underwater Vacuum Leak test for?
This test method covers the determination of gross leaks in flexible packaging containing a headspace gas.
How sensitive is underwater vacuum leak
Underwater vacuum leak per ASTM D3078 is sensitive down to 250 microns.
Why Use Underwater Vacuum Leak?
Underwater vacuum leak testing is a Container Closure Integrity Test. Depending on the container type, other normal CCIT testing standards may not be applicable, therefore underwater vacuum leak is used.
