Step-by-step Bursting Strength Tester SOP for operation, calibration, and QC compliance.
Bursting Strength Tester SOP
1. Objective
This Bursting Strength Tester outlines the procedure for the proper operation and calibration of the bursting strength tester to ensure accurate and reliable results.
2. Scope
This SOP applies to all quality control activities involving the operation and calibration of the bursting strength tester in laboratory and production environments.
3. Responsibility
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Quality Control Officer / Executive
Responsible for performing testing and calibration as per this Bursting Strength Tester.
4. Accountability
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QC Manager
Ensures compliance with the SOP and reviews calibration and testing records.
5. Procedure
5.1 Operation of Bursting Strength Tester
Follow these steps for accurate testing:
- Ensure the instrument and surrounding area are clean. Confirm pressure gauges are within valid calibration.
- Switch ON the tester using the power switch.
- Rotate the clamping wheel anticlockwise to open the clamp.
- Place the test sample carefully over the diaphragm plate.
- Clamp the sample securely by turning the wheel clockwise.
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Select the appropriate gauge:
- Use Gauge 2 for low-strength materials (e.g., paper).
- Use Gauge 1 for high-strength materials (e.g., heavy boards).
- Set the lazy hand (red pointer) to zero.
- Press and hold the “Push for Burst” button until the sample bursts.
- Record the maximum pressure (kg/cm²) in the log sheet (Annexure I).
5.2 Calibration Procedure
To maintain compliance with the Bursting Strength Tester:
- Ensure gauge calibration is performed by an authorized external agency.
- Operate the tester as per the standard procedure.
- Test standard aluminum foil with a bursting strength of 10 kg/cm².
Acceptance Criteria
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Std. Foil Bursting Strength |
Observed Bursting Strength |
Tolerance |
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(1) 10 Kg/cm² |
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± 0.5 Kg/cm² |
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(2) 10 Kg/cm² |
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± 0.5 Kg/cm² |
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(3) 10 Kg/cm² |
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± 0.5 Kg/cm² |
- Calibration frequency: Twice per year
5.3 Precautions
- Do not operate the gauge beyond its specified capacity to avoid damage.
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Maintain a fully filled hydraulic system:
- Air entry due to leakage or diaphragm failure can affect accuracy.
- Air pockets create cushioning effects, leading to inconsistent results.
- Regularly inspect for leaks or diaphragm issues.
6. Abbreviations
- SOP – Standard Operating Procedure
- QC – Quality Control
- QA – Quality Assurance
- No. – Number
- NA – Not Applicable
7. Remarks
The instrument is calibrated as per the Bursting Strength Tester SOP and found to be satisfactory / not satisfactory based on calibration results.
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Date |
Product/Material Name |
Batch No./Lot No. |
Time Started at |
Time Completed on |
Analyzed by |
Checked by |
Remarks |
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Asset ID
No.121 |
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Ref. SOP
No |
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Make |
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Model No. |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a Bursting Strength Tester ?
It is a defined SOP that ensures consistent operation and calibration of bursting strength testers for reliable results.
2. Why is bursting strength testing important?
It measures material durability, especially for paper, packaging, and corrugated boards.
3. How often should calibration be done?
Calibration should be performed twice a year or as per regulatory requirements.
4. What is the standard bursting strength value used in calibration?
Typically, 10 kg/cm² using standard aluminum foil.
5. What happens if air enters the hydraulic system?
It reduces accuracy by creating cushioning effects that distort pressure readings.
6. How do I choose the correct gauge?
Use a lower range gauge for paper and a higher range gauge for heavy boards.
7. What is the acceptable tolerance range?
± 0.5 kg/cm² from the standard value.
8. Who is responsible for performing the test?
A trained Quality Control Officer or Executive.
9. What should be checked before operation?
Cleanliness, calibration validity, and proper gauge functioning.
10. What is the purpose of the lazy hand indicator?
It records the peak pressure reached during the burst test.

