ASTM E 1603 : 1999

CONTAINED IN VOL. 03.03, 2006 Cover procedures for testing the sources of gas leaking at the rate of 4.4 * 10[-14] moles/s (1 * 10[-9] standard-cm[3]/s at 0 degree C) or greater. These test methods may be conducted on any object that can be evacuated and to the other side of which helium or other tracer gas may be applied. The object must be structurally capable of being evacuated to pressures of 0.1 Pa (approximately 10[-3] torr).

1.1 These test methods cover procedures for testing the sources of gas leaking at the rate of 4.4 X 10 -14 moles/s (1 X 10 -9 std-cm /s at 0°C) or greater. The test may be conducted on any object that can be evacuated and to the other side of which helium or other tracer gas may be applied. The object must be structurally capable of being evacuated to pressures of 0.1 Pa (approximately 10 -3 torr).

1.2 Three test methods are described;

1.2.1 Test Method A -For the object under test capable of being evacuated, but having no inherent pumping capability.

1.2.2 Test Method B -For the object under test with integral pumping capability.

1.2.3 Test Method C -For the object under test as in Test Method B, in which the vacuum pumps of the object under test replace those normally used in the leak detector (LD).

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.