ASTM F586-79 (1989)e1 PDF

Full title and description

Standard Test Method for Leak Rates Versus Y Stresses and M Factors for Gaskets — ASTM F586-79 (Reapproved 1989; editorial change e1). This test method specifies apparatus, specimen preparation, measurement procedures and calculation of the yield (y) stress and maintenance (m) factor curves used to characterize gasket sealing performance in pressure-containing flanged connections.

Abstract

ASTM F586 describes a laboratory procedure to determine leak rates as a function of applied gasket compressive stress (y stress) and to derive the maintenance factor (m) that represents additional fastener preload required to maintain seal tightness under internal pressure. The method uses a calibrated pressure vessel, strain‑gaged fasteners, and a buret-based leak collection system to produce leak-rate versus stress curves for gasket materials and constructions. Results are intended to support flange and joint design calculations rather than guarantee in-service tightness.

General information

• Status: Withdrawn (withdrawal recorded 09 February 1998).
• Publication date: Current edition approved Jan 5, 1979; published June 1979. Reapproved in 1989 with editorial changes (superscript epsilon / e1).
• Publisher: ASTM International (formerly American Society for Testing and Materials).
• ICS / categories: Pipeline components / flange seals and gasket test methods (commonly associated with ICS 23.040 — pipeline components; 23.040.80 — seals for pipe and hose assemblies).
• Edition / version: F586‑79 (Reapproved 1989) with editorial change e1 (notation appears as F586‑79(1989)e1).
• Number of pages: 6 pages (published extract / annual book reprint).

Scope

This test method covers determination of leak rates versus y stresses and calculation of m (maintenance) factors for gaskets gripped by pressure‑containing flanged connections. It defines specimen size and mounting, required apparatus (pressure vessel with calibrated strain‑gaged bolts, buret leak measurement), test pressure and environmental corrections, and the conversion of measured leakage to standardized leak rates and gasket factor curves. The method emphasizes SI units as the standard and includes safety disclaimers for hazardous materials and procedures.

Key topics and requirements

• Definition and determination of y (yield) stress — the contact stress needed to close gasket porosity and obtain initial sealing.
• Determination of m (maintenance) factor — multiplier to account for additional preload required when internal pressure is applied.
• Apparatus: pressure vessel built from flanges (ANSI B16.5 dimensions), strain‑gaged bolts for axial load measurement, oil‑filled pressure gauge (0–500 psi), and buret assembly for leak collection and volumetric measurement.
• Specimen geometry and handling — nominal 4‑inch pipe size test specimens, minimum number of replicate gaskets for statistical evaluation (minimum six gaskets recommended).
• Measurement and reduction: buret height/volume corrections, temperature and pressure corrections to standard conditions, and presentation of leak‑rate vs. stress curves rather than single-point constants.
• Referenced documents and normative cross‑references include ASTM F104, ASTM F363, ANSI B16.5 and ASME Pressure Vessel Code requirements used for fixture and flange definitions.

Typical use and users

Primary users are gasket and sealing materials manufacturers, independent testing laboratories, piping and flange designers, and code/standards committees evaluating joint sealing performance. Historically the method was used to supply m and y values for flange design calculations and for comparative evaluation of gasket types; however, reliance on m and y constants has declined and alternative approaches and product test data are often used in modern flange design.

Related standards

Standards and documents referenced by or related to this test method include ASTM F104 (classification of nonmetallic gasket materials), ASTM F363 (corrosion testing of gaskets), ANSI/ASME flange standards such as ANSI B16.5, and applicable sections of the ASME Pressure Vessel Code. Later or alternative gasket and flange standards (ISO, EN, ASME) address dimensions, materials and performance of gaskets and may be used alongside or in place of m/y‑factor approaches.

Keywords

gasket test method; leak rate; y stress; m factor; maintenance factor; flange joint; ASTM F586; gasket constants; pressure vessel test; buret leak measurement.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM F586 is a test method that defines how to measure leakage versus compressive stress on a gasket and how to derive the related m (maintenance) and y (yield) factors used historically in flange design calculations.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers specimen preparation, the pressure‑vessel test fixture and instrumentation (strain‑gaged bolts, pressure gauge), buret leak measurement and corrections, data reduction to leak‑rate versus stress curves, and calculation/interpretation of m and y factors for flanged connections.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Gasket manufacturers, test laboratories, piping/flange designers, and standards committees used the method to generate comparative performance data and input values for flange design calculations. Over time industry practice has shifted toward broader performance testing and material‑specific data rather than sole reliance on m and y constants.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: ASTM F586 (F586‑79, reapproved 1989 with editorial change e1) was withdrawn in 1998. Many organizations and designers no longer rely on m and y factors as the definitive measure of gasket tightness; alternative test methods and manufacturer performance data are commonly used. There is no direct, universally accepted ASME replacement that restores mandatory use of m/y constants.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: The method sits within ASTM Committee F03 work on gaskets and is associated with other ASTM test methods and classification standards for gasket materials (for example ASTM F104, ASTM F363). It was produced under Subcommittee F03.40 (chemical test methods) and tied to flange standards such as ANSI B16.5 and ASME pressure vessel provisions.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Leak rate, y stress, m factor, gasket, flange, pressure vessel test, buret, strain‑gaged bolts, ASTM F586.