pexels-tara-winstead-7722565

ASTM F3039: Leak and Dye Penetration Laboratory Testing

ASTM F3039 flexible package and pouch dye penetration testing defines a procedure that detects and locates leaks in a channel. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of ASTM F3039 regulatory compliance testing. Meeting the ASTM F3039 leak and dye requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone Compliance partners with customers to achieve package compliance. Our pricing is competitive and we offer volume discounts. We are in constant communication throughout the test process. Lastly, Keystone creates an accurate test plan to eliminate expensive over-testing.

Request a quote and find out first hand about our competitive pricing, timely process, and outstanding reputation. Have a question about leak and dye penetration testing? Contact us and we will determine the best course of action.

Summary of ASTM F3039 Dye Penetration Compliance

The ASTM F3039 flexible package and pouch dye test 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 nonporous packages can degrade sensitive contents.

This ATSM integrity and sustainability pouch dye penetration test method for detecting leaks in nonporous flexible barrier materials is destructive. Meaning that the samples should not be used for final product packaging. ASTM F3039 standard testing does not address all of the safety concerns associated with its use.

Scope of ASTM 3039 Liquid Penetrant Laboratory Testing

ASTM F3039 integrity testing covers dye penetrant solutions 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 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 desired, the outside edge of the seal being tested is placed against an absorbent surface. After lifting the package, it is examined for the presence of stains. These stains indicate a channel or leak.

Significance of ASTM 3039 Dye Penetration Testing

This type of flexible package and pouch 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, 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.

The ASTM F3039 pouch and flexible package dye penetration test report includes general information such as date, time, location, and test engineer. Details of the package include the type of material and other characteristics. The number of packages tested and the number of failures are recorded, as well as any conditioning.

Specific information consists of the dye penetrant formulation, which standard test method was performed, and evidence of the dye penetration to the opposite side of the seal via a defined channel.

Expert Leak and Dye Penetration Package Testing

In addition to ASTM leak penetration and dye penetration validation testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including drop, cold chain, and accelerated aging. 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 ASTM F3039 certification needs.

Other similar flexible package testing and pouch validation standards include: