1.1 This test method provides procedures for the leak testing of tubing using pneumatic pressure. This test method involves measuring the change in pressure inside the tubing over time. There are three procedures that may be used, all of which are intended to be equivalent. It is a qualitative not a quantitative test method. Any of the three procedures are intended to be capable of leak detection and, as such, are intended to be equivalent for that purpose.

1.2 The procedures will produce consistent results upon which acceptance standards can be based. This test may be performed in accordance with the Pressure Differential (Procedure A), the Pressure Decay (Procedure B), or the Vacuum Decay (Procedure C) method.

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.3.1 Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets.

ASTM Standards

A1016/A1016M Specification for General Requirements for Ferritic Alloy Steel, Austenitic Alloy Steel, and Stainless Steel Tubes