The Luer taper is a standardized system of small-scale fluid fittings for making leak-free connections between male-taper fittings and their mating female counterparts on medical and laboratory instruments, including hypodermic syringe tips, catheters and infusion devices. The two varieties of Luer taper connections are typically known as Luer-lock and Luer-slip. Luer-slip fittings are defined in ISO 594. ISO 594-1 defines the dimensions and validation test specifications of luer-slip fittings. ISO 594-2 defines the dimensions and validation test specifications of Luer-lock fittings. Both sections of ISO 594 define standardized tests which include: a connection test which ensures that the fitting assembly connects with a specified torque, stays connected, does not leak, and disassembles with a specified torque an axial force test which ensures that the connection stays together after being properly connected a torsional stress test which ensures that the Luer fitting does not crack when over-torqued Related standards An additional European standard, similar to ISO 594, is labeled EN 1707. EN 1707 is a European standard with the same title as ISO 594-2, but offers two additional thread alternatives for the female fitting. Luer fitting tests in EN 1707 include tests for leakage under pressure and vacuum, and security of the assembled fitting. ISO 80369 is a new standard which defines the geometry and dimensions of seven new Luer connections, and their corresponding validation test specifications. ISO 80369 was established to prevent medical accidents involving conflicting treatments which require different Luer connections. Additional testing ensures that Luer fittings cannot be accidentally connected. Equipment required TestResources provides turnkey solutions to all the mechanical testing requirements called for in ISO 594. Our 131 Electromechanical Axial-Torsional Test Machine is recommended for Luer testing in ISO 594. This test machine is equipped with specialized software to automate the sequential axial and torsional test steps. Vacuum and leak test equipment are also available to perform tests between mechanical test steps. ISO 594 and ISO 80369 call for tests to be performed with one side of the Luer connection as a certified gauge made of steel and the other side of the connection as the product tested. TestResources offers a full set of eight certified steel gauges, designed to fit in the 131 Axial-Torsional Test Machine. They are provided with documentation certifying specifications made to ISO 594 or ISO 80369. Gauges can be purchased with a handle for manual testing, or without a handle ready to fit into the 131AT test machine. Call today to speak directly with one of our experienced Luer application engineers at 800.430.6536.
Applicable Testing Standards
- BS EN 1707 Test Equipment for Luer Slip Fittings
- BS EN 20594-1 Conical fittings with a 6% (Luer) taper for syringes, needles and certain other medical equipment.
- ISO 594-1 & 2 Separation Force and Unscrewing Torque Testing for Luer Tapers
- ISO 80369-1 Axial Torsional Luer Connector Test Equipment
Recommended Test Machine
Force ratings up to 5 kN (1,125 lbf) and torque ratings up to 20 Nm (177 lbf∙in)
Can apply axial and torsional loads simultaneously
Performs both static and slow-speed dynamic testing
All electric and oil-free operation
Recommended Testing Accessories
Designed in accordance to ISO 594-1 Figure 3A
Includes certification
Optional handle available
Designed in accordance to ISO 594-1 Figure 3B
Includes certification
Optional handle available
Designed in accordance to ISO 594-1 Figure 3C
Includes certification
Optional handle available
Designed in accordance to ISO 594-1 Figure 4
Includes certification
Designed in accordance to ISO 594-1 Figure 5
Includes certification
Designed in accordance to ISO 594-2 Figure 5
Includes certification
Designed in accordance to ISO 594-2 Figure 6
Includes certification
Designed in accordance to ISO 594-2 Figure 7
Includes certification
Designed in accordance to ISO 594-2 Figure 8
Includes certification
