Overview
IEC 61300-2-38:2023 specifies two air‑pressure test methods to verify the sealing performance of fibre optic sealed closures and hardened connectors. This third edition (2023) replaces the 2006 edition and adds coverage for sealed hardened connectors, recommended test severities referenced from IEC 61753-1, and dedicated test configurations for hardened connectors and adaptors. The standard is part of the IEC 61300 basic test and measurement procedures for fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope: Procedures for assessing sealing (watertight and dust‑tight behaviour) of sealed closures and hardened fibre optic connectors using pressurized air.
- Two test methods:
- Method A (bubble immersion): Pressurize the specimen, submerge in a water bath and inspect for escaping air bubbles. Suited for post‑installation checks and functional verification; field checks may use soap solution as a practical alternative.
- Method B (pressure decay/monitoring): Pressurize the specimen and monitor internal pressure with a gauge to detect pressure loss before and after mechanical or environmental tests. Intended for use during mechanical tests at specified temperatures; measurement interval guidance limits the duration between first and last pressure readings (see standard for details).
- Apparatus elements: pressurizer, capillary gas connection, pressure gauge and water bath. The standard specifies a pressure gauge range (at least 40 kPa) and a resolution sufficient to detect a small pressure loss (text provides example resolutions to determine a ~2 kPa / ~5% drop).
- Test specimen preparation: Assemble closures/connectors per manufacturer instructions, use smallest and largest cable diameters for which the specimen is designed, install gauge and seal cable ends, and follow prescribed immersion or monitoring procedures.
- Severity and reporting: Recommended test severities are pulled from IEC 61753-1 and the standard defines details to be specified and reported, plus annexed configurations for hardened connectors and adaptors.
Applications and who uses it
- Manufacturers of fibre‑optic sealed closures, hardened connectors and adaptors (design validation, production qualification).
- Independent test laboratories and QA teams performing type, production or R&D sealing tests.
- Network operators and contractors responsible for outside‑plant installations who need predictable, standardized leak testing methods.
- Certification bodies and specifiers that require documented, repeatable sealing performance evidence for field‑hardened components.
Related standards
- IEC 61300-1 - General guidance for basic test and measurement procedures (normative reference).
- IEC 61753-1 - Source for recommended test severities referenced in this document.
- The IEC 61300 series for fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components.
Keywords: IEC 61300-2-38, sealing test, fibre optic sealed closures, hardened connectors, air pressure test, Method A water bath, Method B pressure decay, IEC 61753-1.