Vacuum Decay Method

A sensitive leak detection technique designed to evaluate the integrity of packaging by creating a vacuum environment.
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Vacuum Decay Method Description

The Vacuum Decay Method is a nondestructive and quantitative approach to identifying leaks in nonporous packages, whether rigid or flexible. Depending on the test conditions and the properties of the tested product, this method focuses on detecting leakage in the headspace gas region or below the product fill level.

Plastic Ampoule Vacuum Decay Leak Test
Plastic Ampoule Vacuum Decay Leak Test

To perform the vacuum decay test, the sample is placed within a specially designed evacuation chamber that is connected to a leak testing system. This chamber accommodates the test package securely. If the package has flexible or moveable components, appropriate tooling is utilized to restrict any movement during the testing process.

Syringe in Vacuum Decay Leak Test
Syringe in Vacuum Decay Leak Test

How Does Vacuum Decay Method Work?

The testing begins by evacuating the chamber along with the test system for a predetermined duration. The level of vacuum to be achieved is based on factors such as the type, size, and content of the package. Once the desired vacuum is reached, the vacuum source is isolated from the system.

After a brief equilibration period, the pressure in the chamber is monitored for any increases. This rise in pressure, known as vacuum decay, indicates potential leaks. A significant pressure increase that surpasses a pre-established limit suggests that the package is leaking. The test employs pressure transducers to provide accurate measurements throughout this process.

Vacuum Leak Rate Profiles and Test Stages
Vacuum Leak Rate Profiles and Test Stages

Reference Standard

For detailed guidelines on the Vacuum Decay Test Method, industry professionals can refer to ASTM F2338 and USP 1207, . These standards outline the requirements for testing and help ensure consistency and reliability in leak detection.

 

ASTM F2338
USP 1207

Cell Instruments’ Vacuum Decay Leak Test System: MLT-01 Micro Leak Tester

For effective vacuum decay testing, Cell Instruments offers a reliable vacuum decay leak tester tailored to meet diverse testing needs. MLT-01 Micro Leak Tester is designed to ensure precise monitoring and accurate leak detection, enhancing your quality assurance processes

Vacuum Leak Method for Micro Leak Testing Machine MLT-01

Applications & Industries

Vacuum decay testing is employed across various industries, including:

  • Pharmaceuticals: Ensures the integrity of packaging for medicines and vaccines.
  • Food and Beverage: Maintains product quality by preventing contamination.
  • Medical Devices: Validates the seal integrity of sensitive medical packaging.
  • Cosmetics: Protects formulations from exposure and spoilage.

This method is suitable for packages ranging from a few milliliters to several liters, making it versatile for different products and testing scenarios.

Typical tested samples by vacuum decay method are packages that can be nondestructive evaluated, including:

  1. Rigid and semi-rigid non-lidded trays.
  2. Trays or cups sealed with porous barrier kidding material.
  3. Rigid, nonporous packages.
  4. Flexible, nonporous packages.
ASTM F2338 Vacuum Decay Leak Test Chamber for porous barrier lidded package
ASTM F2338 Vacuum Decay Leak Test Chamber for porous barrier lidded package
Vacuum Decay Leak Test Chamber for Rigid Nonporous Package
Vacuum Decay Leak Test Chamber for Rigid Nonporous Package
Vacuum Decay Leak Tester Fixture for Rigid Nonporous Package
Vacuum Decay Leak Tester Fixture for Rigid Nonporous Package

Benefits of Vacuum Decay Method

The Vacuum Decay Method offers numerous advantages:

High Sensitivity

Capable of detecting very small leaks, making it suitable for sensitive applications.

Non-Destructive

The method does not compromise the integrity of the package, preserving the product.

Versatility

Applicable to a wide range of packaging types, including those containing gases, liquids, and solids.

Efficiency

Testing durations range from seconds to minutes, depending on package size and leak severity, allowing for rapid quality control.

FAQ about Vacuum Decay Method

The method relies on measuring pressure changes in a vacuum environment to detect leaks in packaging.

Both rigid and flexible non-porous packages containing gases, liquids, or solids can be tested.

This method is highly sensitive and can detect leaks as small as a few microns, depending on the test conditions.

The test requires a specially designed vacuum chamber, pressure transducers, a vacuum source, and associated monitoring equipment. Cell Instruments MLT-01 Micro Leak Tester is typical vacuum decay eequipment.

Testing durations can vary from seconds to several minutes, depending on the size of the package and the severity of potential leaks.

Compared to methods like bubble testing, the vacuum decay method offers greater sensitivity and is suitable for a wider range of packaging types.

Looking for reliable Vacuum Decay Leak Test equipment?

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