ASTM F1394-92(2005)

The purpose of this test method is to define a procedure for testing components intended for installation into a high-purity gas distribution system. Application of this test method is expected to yield comparable data among components tested for the purposes of qualification for this installation.

Background Testing—This test method uses background testing to ensure that the system is not contributing particles above a low, acceptable level. This ensures that counts seen are from the test device, not from a contaminated system. The techniques used to obtain background counts do not produce conditions identical to the conditions existing when a test device is in place. It is recommended that the control products be run periodically to see that they give consistent results. These control products should be the lowest particle release products. They will be additional proof that the system is not contributing excess particles during the static, dynamic, or impact portions of the test.

This test method can be used for testing lengths of tubing. The flow criteria will be identical to that indicated for valves. A tubing test would only include the static background, the impact background, and the static and impact portions of the method. A dynamic portion could be added by actuating the upstream pneumatic valve (PV1), thus creating a flow surge to the test length of tubing.

1.1 This test method covers gas distribution system components intended for installation into a high-purity gas distribution system.

1.1.2 This test method describes a procedure designed to draw statistically significant comparisons of particulate generation performance of valves tested under aggressive conditions.

1.1.3 This test method is not intended as a methodology for monitoring on-going particle performance once a particular valve has been tested.

1.2 This test method utilizes a condensation nucleus counter (CNC) applied to in-line gas valves typically used in semiconductor applications. It applies to automatic and manual valves of various types (such as diaphragms or bellows), 6.3 through 12.7-mm ( 1/4 through 1/2-in.) size. For applications of this test method to larger valves, see the table in the appendix.

1.2.1 Valves larger than 12.7 mm ( 1/2 in.) can be tested by this methodology. The test stand must be sized accordingly. Components larger than 12.7 mm ( 1/2 in.) should be tested while maintaining a Reynolds number of 20000 to 21000. This is the Reynolds number for 12.7-mm ( 1/2-in.) components tested at a velocity of 30.5 m/s (100 ft/s).

1.3 Limitations:

1.3.1 This test method is applicable to total particle count greater than the minimum detection limit (MDL) of the condensation nucleus particle counter and does not consider classifying data into various size ranges.

1.3.1.1 It is questionable whether significant data can be generated from nondynamic components (such as fittings and short lengths of tubing) to compare, with statistical significance, to the data generated from the spool piece. For this reason, this test method cannot reliably support comparisons between these types of components.

1.3.1.2 If detection or classification of particles, or both, in the size range of laser particle counter (LPC) technology is of interest, an LPC can be utilized for testing components. Flow rates, test times, sampling apparatus, and data analysis outlined in this test method do not apply for use with an LPC. Because of these variations, data from CNCs are not comparable to data from LPCs.

1.3.2 This test method specifies flow and mechanical stress conditions in excess of those considered typical. These conditions should not exceed those recommended by the manufacturer. Actual performance under normal operating conditions may vary.

1.3.3 The test method is limited to nitrogen or clean dry air. Performance with other gases may vary.

1.3.4 This test method is intended for use by operators who understand the use of the apparatus at a level equivalent to six months of experience.

1.3.5 The appropriate particle counter manufacturer's operating and maintenance manuals should be consulted when using this test method.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific hazard statements are given in Section 6, Hazards.