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ASTM F1929 Dye Penetration Package Testing

ASTM F1929 flexible package dye penetration testing detects and locates leaks formed by a wire in package edge seals. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of ASTM F1929 package testing. Meeting the ASTM F1929 penetration requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone Compliance creates an accurate test plan to eliminate expensive over-testing. We take a consultative approach throughout the entire test program. Lastly, Keystone provides the peace of mind that all of your needs will be met.

Request a quote and find out first hand about our competitive pricing, timely process, and outstanding reputation. Contact us to receive more information on ASTM D1929 dye penetration package testing.

Summary of ASTM F1929 Dye Penetration Validation

The remainder of this page speaks to the various components and considerations that exist with the dye penetration testing of packages. 

ASTM F1929 pouch and flexible package dye validation/sustainability covers three different dye application methods. They are injection, eye dip and eyedropper. This test standard is limited to porous materials that can retain the dye penetrant solution and prevent it from discoloring the seal area for a minimum of five seconds.

The ASTM F1929 integrity standard specifically points out the difficulty of uncoated papers. Uncoated papers are susceptible to leakage. These packages must be evaluated carefully for use with each of the three test methods.

Why Is Dye Penetration Testing Important?

Medical and healthcare packaging must have sufficient seals. It is critical that contaminants not enter through leaks. These leaks are frequently found at seals between package components. This holds true whether the materials of the components are the same or different.

This ASTM F1929 test method is not used to observe leaks in porous material. The focus is only the channel seal. To determine the presence of other leaks, other testing methods should be used.

Test Equipment Needed

To complete dye penetrant testing, the package testing lab must have the following test equipment.

For Method A, a small knife or other apparatus to breach one of the packaging materials is required. A dye dispenser such as an eye dropper or syringe is also required for Method A. This is used to inject the dye penetrant solution.

Test Method B requires a pair of scissors or other cutting device. A dye solution container is also necessary to perform this method.

For Test Method C, the test lab uses an eyedropper or one-millimeter pipette.

A microscope or optical loop with magnification of 5x to 20x can be used to evaluate each of the methods. An aqueous dye penetrant solution must consist of a wetting agent, indicator dye, and carrier.

The cutting and injection tools to be must be used appropriately. When puncturing the package to allow the dye to be injected, it is important to not damage other surfaces of the package. That is why selecting the correct tools to work with is important. It is recommended that the dye penetrant is dispensed using a flexible tube attached to a syringe through an opening formed with an appropriate cutting instrument.

Important Sections of the ASTM-F1929 Test Standard

The test standard includes guidance on the procedure, report, precision and bias. The test procedures are defined for each of the three individual test methods. There is also an appendix that speaks to the guidance on false positives. False positives can occur from wicking, oxidative sterilization and bending or folding.

Expert ASTM F1929 Seal and Flexible Package Testing

Keystone Compliance strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. We can accommodate flexible and rigid packages of all sizes, including large pallets.

Contact us to learn first hand why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their flexible package certification needs.

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