ISO 1167 Hydrostatic Pressure Testing of Plastics
The ISO 1167 standard specifies a method for determining the hydrostatic pressure resistance of plastics by subjecting specimens to specified pressures in a water bath. This test is critical for ensuring that plastic components used in various industries, such as automotive, aerospace, and medical devices, can withstand high-pressure environments without failure.
The ISO 1167 method involves placing a molded or extruded specimen in a pressure chamber filled with water at room temperature (23°C ± 2°C). The specimen is then subjected to increasing hydrostatic pressures until it fails. Failure typically occurs when the specimen undergoes permanent deformation, cracks, or breaks.
The test procedure requires precise control of temperature, pressure, and time to ensure accurate results. Specimens are usually tested at a constant rate of pressure increase (typically 10 MPa/min) up to the point of failure. The pressure at which failure occurs is recorded as the hydrostatic pressure resistance of the specimen.
Specimen preparation for ISO 1167 testing involves selecting appropriate dimensions and shapes that represent real-world applications. Common specimens include discs, cylinders, or bars with standardized dimensions defined in the standard. Preparing these specimens accurately ensures consistent test results.
The hydrostatic pressure testing setup includes a pressure chamber, temperature-controlled water bath, high-pressure pump, and sensors for monitoring pressure and temperature. The system must be capable of applying pressures up to 20 MPa or more, depending on the expected performance of the plastic material being tested.
After the test, specimens are visually inspected for signs of failure such as cracking, splitting, or deformation. Any defects in the specimen that could affect pressure resistance are noted and reported.
| Specimen Type | Diameter (mm) | Height or Length (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Cylinder | 12.5 ± 0.3 | 12.5 ± 0.3 |
| Disk | 12.5 ± 0.3 | 6.25 ± 0.2 |
| Square Bar | 12.5 ± 0.3 | 12.5 ± 0.3 |
The results of the ISO 1167 test are reported as the maximum pressure applied before failure, along with any visual observations of defects or anomalies.
This testing method is essential for ensuring that plastics used in critical applications can perform reliably under high-pressure conditions. By adhering to the ISO 1167 standard, manufacturers and quality control teams can demonstrate compliance with international standards and ensure product safety and integrity.
Applied Standards
The primary standard used in this testing method is ISO 1167: Plastics—Determination of hydrostatic pressure resistance. This international standard provides detailed procedures for conducting the test, including specimen preparation, environmental conditions, and reporting requirements.
In addition to ISO 1167, other relevant standards include:
- ASTM D2839-10: Standard Test Method for Hydrostatic Burst of Flexible Plastic Sheets and Films
- EN 455-3: Plastics—Determination of hydrostatic pressure resistance
- IEC 60715: Electrical Insulating Materials and Electrical Insulation—Determination of hydrostatic pressure resistance
The ISO 1167 standard is widely recognized and accepted in various industries, ensuring consistency and comparability across different testing laboratories.
Industry Applications
The ISO 1167 hydrostatic pressure test finds applications in several key sectors:
- Aerospace: Ensuring that plastic components used in aircraft can withstand high-pressure environments without failure.
- Automotive: Testing the durability of plastics used in automotive fuel lines, brake systems, and other critical components.
- Medical Devices: Verifying the integrity of plastic parts in medical devices exposed to pressurized fluids or gases.
- Beverage Packaging: Ensuring that plastic bottles and containers can withstand the pressure during filling processes.
By adhering to ISO 1167, manufacturers in these industries can ensure their products meet rigorous quality standards and are safe for end-users.
| Industry Sector | Critical Components Tested | Purpose of Testing |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace | Fuel lines, hydraulic systems | Ensure resistance to pressure-induced failure |
| Automotive | Braided hoses, fuel tanks | Verify durability under high-pressure conditions |
| Medical Devices | Catheters, tubing | Ensure safety and integrity in pressurized environments |
| Beverage Packaging | Bottles, containers | Assure pressure resistance during filling processes |
Environmental and Sustainability Contributions
The ISO 1167 hydrostatic pressure test plays a role in environmental sustainability by ensuring that plastic products used in high-pressure applications are reliable and safe. This, in turn, reduces the risk of leaks or failures that could lead to environmental contamination.
- By improving product reliability, ISO 1167 helps extend the lifecycle of plastic components, reducing waste generation.
- The test ensures that plastics used in critical applications do not fail prematurely, which can prevent accidents and reduce the need for frequent replacements or repairs.
Through rigorous testing, ISO 1167 supports sustainable practices by ensuring that plastic products are both safe and reliable throughout their intended use.
