Leakproofness of dangerous goods packagings—comparison of worst‐case limit leakage rates and sensitivity of the bubble test. Issue 6 (22nd March 2019) - Schlick‐Hasper, Eva
Abstract : This work focuses on the question if the bubble test prescribed in the Dangerous Goods Regulations has sufficient sensitivity to detect leakage rates, which could result in the formation of explosive atmospheres during transport. The sensitivity of the bubble test is not directly comparable with other leak testing methods because of its different flow conditions. Therefore, a normalized minimum detectable leakage rate under Helium test conditions is calculated for the bubble test. This sensitivity of the bubble test under reference conditions is compared with limit leakage rates for a worst‐case transport scenario. The sensitivity of the bubble test is not sufficient to prove the limit leakage rates for 6‐L packagings. The formation of explosive vapour‐air‐mixtures cannot be excluded. Therefore, more sensitive leak testing methods should be considered for smaller packaging design types. Abstract : The sensitivity of the bubble test as prescribed in the international Dangerous Goods Regulations is compared with limit leakage rates for a worst case transport scenario under normalized Helium test conditions. The sensitivity of the bubble test is not sufficient to prove the limit leakage rates for 6‐L packagings. Therefore, more sensitive leak testing methods should be considered for smaller packaging design types.