ANSI HPS-N43.15-2001 pdf download Health Physics Society
4.2.1 Bend Test Classification Requirement. Sealed sources used in Category III irradiators shall have a minimum bend test classification of 5 based on the bend test procedures shown in 4.3. Bend tests shall only apply to sources having an L/D of 15 or more, where L = active length and D = minimum outer capsule diameter of the active length or the smallest cross- sectional dimension of non-circular sources. Compliance with the test is determined by the ability of the sealed source to maintain its integrity, after the test is performed, as defined in American National Standard N43.6. A source shall also have complied with the bend test if the source, due to its flexibility, passes through the test jig while under test (the center of the force cylinder passes through the centerline of the two support cylinders) and maintains its integrity.
4.3 Bend Test Bend test classifications are based on applied static force, using the following test parameters. All three cylinders shall not rotate and shall have longitudinal axes that are parallel to each other. The cylinders shall have smooth surfaces and shall be of sufficient length to accommodate the full contact surface of the capsule during the test procedure. All cylinders are to be of a solid nature. Cylinder hardness should equal 50-55 on the Rockwell “C” hardness scale. In applying the static force, care should be taken not to apply this force suddenly as this will increase the effective force. The applicable static force shall be applied at the most vulnerable part of the sealed source. Figure 1 shows the bend test parameters.
4.4 Certification and Documentation The source manufacturer or supplier shall maintain records relating to the sealed source(s) and provide this information to meet requirements such as those of licensing and transportation. The records shall include the following: a. Model number and identification number of the source(s), date of measurement, activity of the primary radionuclide on the date of measurement, the activity of any other radionuclide having more than 1% of the activity of the primary activity on the date of shipment.