ASTM D3078 Leak Testing with Model M

ASTM D3078 · Model M

Simplified Vacuum Leak Testing with Direct Manual Control

Model M offers a straightforward way to apply, monitor and repeat vacuum conditions in visual package leak testing—without recipes, menus or a PLC controller.

The procedure remains manual: the operator sets the vacuum, controls the time and observes the package according to the approved method.

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Visual methodThe operator evaluates bubble emission or another defined indication.

Manual vacuumVacuum is adjusted through the Model M valve.

Digital readingThe gauge displays the measured vacuum level.

Procedure drivenTarget, time and acceptance criteria must be defined.

The process challenge

Why simple leak tests can still produce variable results.

Complexity is not the only source of inconsistency. A manual test can also vary when vacuum targets, timing and operator actions are not clearly controlled.

Changing vacuum levelsOperators may stop at different readings from one test to another.

Operator dependenceValve adjustment, timing and observation can differ by person or shift.

Unnecessary complexityAdvanced interfaces can add functions that a basic visual method does not need.

Multiple workstationsDifferent equipment layouts can make training and execution inconsistent.

Common problems with variable and complex package leak testing systems — Standardization begins with a defined procedure—not simply with more automation.

A simpler architecture can help

Model M uses direct controls and a clear digital vacuum reading. When paired with a written procedure, trained operators can follow one operating logic across compatible CDV chamber sizes.

Defined vacuum target
Defined exposure time
Consistent observation window
Documented acceptance criteria

Four direct controls

How Model M establishes the test condition.

Vacuum adjusted using the Model M manual regulation valve

01 · ADJUST

Regulate vacuum

Use the manual valve to approach the vacuum target specified by the procedure.

Model M air bleed system used to repeat a vacuum setting

02 · STABILIZE

Control the air bleed

Balance the system so the required operating condition can be reached consistently.

Model M vacuum setting secured with a locknut

03 · SECURE

Lock the adjustment

Use the locknut to reduce unintended changes to the selected manual setting.

Clear digital vacuum reading on the DVACI Model M module

04 · MONITOR

Read the vacuum

Follow the digital gauge while controlling time and observing the package.

Need to verify this workflow with your package?DVACI can evaluate your samples and provide a recorded test with parameter recommendations.

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One operating logic

Compatible with the CDV vacuum-chamber family.

The same Model M control approach can be applied across compatible CDV chamber sizes. This lets the package dimensions determine the chamber while preserving a familiar manual workflow.

Actual vacuum performance depends on the chosen chamber, vacuum source, installation altitude and package application.

Choose a CDV chamber →

Model M control system compatible with multiple DVACI CDV vacuum chamber sizes — Select chamber volume around the package while maintaining the Model M operating approach.

ASTM D3078 application

Can Model M be used for ASTM D3078 testing?

Model M can provide the vacuum control and measurement functions used in an ASTM D3078 bubble-emission setup. The flexible package is immersed, vacuum is applied and the operator observes for the indication defined by the method.

The equipment alone does not make a test compliant. The user must establish suitable parameters, conditioning, observation rules, acceptance criteria, documentation and method validation for the specific package.

Review the ASTM D3078 standard listing →

DVACI Model M used in an ASTM D3078 package bubble leak test setup — Model M supplies manual vacuum adjustment and measurement; the complete test remains procedure dependent.

Technical distinction: “Standardized” means operators follow the same controlled procedure. Model M does not automatically regulate vacuum, run a programmed timer or save electronic test records.

Available applications

Visual testing in immersion or a dry chamber.

The correct observation method depends on the package, product and test objective.

Model M supporting dry and immersion package leak testing methods

Immersion bubble testing

Submerge suitable packages and observe for a continuous or localized bubble stream while vacuum is applied.

Practical Model M vacuum leak testing solution for packaging

Dry visual testing

For appropriate liquid-filled containers, inspect for visible product seepage without filling the chamber with test fluid.

Selection guidance

Is a simplified manual system appropriate for your process?

Model M may fit when...

Testing is occasional or routine.
A trained operator can follow a controlled procedure.
Visual results and manual documentation are acceptable.
Direct vacuum adjustment is preferred.
Stored recipes and automated reports are unnecessary.

Consider Model S or P when...

Automatic vacuum regulation is required.
Test time must be controlled by the system.
Products require different stored recipes.
User permissions or barcode selection are needed.
Electronic results, exports or reports are expected.

Comparison and replacement of a package leak testing control system with Model M — Choose the control level from the process requirements, not only from initial equipment cost.

Start simple—without limiting future evaluation.

If requirements later expand toward automation, traceability or data management, the application should be reassessed against Model S or Model P capabilities.

Compare Model S Compare Model P

Frequently asked questions