FEA 603: Long-Term Storage Testing and Weight Loss Measurement

Standard Overview

FEA 603 is an industry standard issued by the European Aerosol Federation (FEA) providing guidelines for long-term storage testing of filled aerosol packs and for measuring loss of weight over time.

The standard addresses not only leakage, but also the combined effects of time, temperature, and environment on the integrity of the aerosol pack and the stability of its contents.

Objectives of the Test

FEA 603 defines three parallel objectives:

• to determine loss of weight and/or pressure during storage,
• to assess compatibility between product and packaging components,
• for plastic aerosols, to evaluate the effect of visible and non-visible light.

These objectives reflect real market conditions, including warehouse storage, transport, and consumer use.

Scope of Application

The method applies to all filled aerosol packs, regardless of whether the container is made of:

• metal
• glass
• plastic

The choice of test scale and duration is a compromise between statistical accuracy and practical constraints, and the values given in the standard should be considered minimum recommendations.

Apparatus Required

• Laboratory balance with precision of 0.01 g or 0.05 g
• Pressure gauge according to FEA 604
• Storage facilities at:
  • room temperature, and
  • one or more elevated temperatures between 35 °C and 50 °C
• For plastic aerosols: equipment for exposure to visible and/or non-visible light

Sample Preparation and Initial Measurements

Test samples must be:

• identical to the containers and valves intended for production,
• prepared under conditions as close as possible to industrial filling.

At least 24 hours after filling, and before storage begins, the following operations are carried out:

1. Numbering of all samples
2. Measurement of internal pressure at ambient temperature (FEA 604)
3. Initial weighing of each sample

Recommended Storage Conditions

Table 1 – Example Test Protocol for Aerosols (General)

Table 2 – Additional Protocol for Plastic Aerosols (Light Exposure)

Evaluation After Storage

After completion of the defined storage period:

1. Samples are conditioned for 24 hours at ambient temperature.
2. Each sample is weighed to determine loss of weight.
3. Internal pressure is measured again according to FEA 604.
4. Valves are actuated to verify correct functioning.
5. Containers are opened and emptied to inspect:
   • residual product condition,
   • inner and outer container surfaces,
   • mounting cups and valve components.

Test Report Requirements

The test report shall include:

• sample identification and origin,
• number of samples tested,
• storage conditions and duration,
• individual weight loss values,
• initial and final pressure values,
• observed changes in components or contents,
• time elapsed between filling and test start.

Relationship with Other FEA Standards

• FEA 602 – rapid tightness test (short-term leakage)
• FEA 604 – internal pressure measurement
• FEA 422 – standard fill levels

Together, these standards provide a complete framework for validating aerosol pack performance throughout its lifecycle.

FAQ – Engineering, QA & Compliance