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Hydrostatic Pressure Test


What is a Hydrostatic Pressure Test?

The Hydrostatic Pressure Test evaluates a material’s resistance to water penetration. Products such as gowns, drapes, and barrier fabrics are required by AAMI PB70 and EN 13795 to undergo this test. This test is also used for 510(k) submissions to the FDA. Nelson Labs can perform all the required tests listed in AAMI PB70 and EN 13795. Our testing is done in conformance with criteria from:

  • AATCC 127
  • AAMI PB70
  • EN 13795
  • ISO 811


Study Outline

The Hydrostatic Pressure test specimen is clamped into the hydrostatic head tester (FX3000) and pressure is increased at a rate of 60 mbar per minute or 10 mbar per minute. The face side of the specimen is challenged directly with the water and the reverse side observed for fluid penetration. The hydrostatic pressure at which fluid penetration occurs in three areas of the specimen is recorded.

  • If testing to comply with the AAMI PB70 and EN 13795, please note on sampling details, areas to test, as well as classification requirement.
  • If testing to comply with ISO 811, please note which rate of increase is needed (60 or 10 mbar).

In addition to our Hydrostatic Pressure testing, we provide a range of Protective Barriers & Material Performance Testing. Offering a unique combination of test services to assess surgical gowns and drapes as well as surgical masks and general-use face masks of all types to support marketing approvals and performance label claim verification.


Testing Locations

  • Salt Lake City, UT, USA

Learn more about our locations and their certifications.

Contact Us

If you have additional questions about Hydrostatic Pressure testing, or would like to consult with the experts at Nelson Labs, just send us a request or call us at +1 (801) 290-7500.