Step 2: Check the oxygen level – inline and as sample test
Gas analysers are essential for quality control. The checks can be done either as a continuous analysis directly during the packaging process, or following the packaging process as sample testing. Ideally, you would combine both methods.
For continuous analysis, a gas analysis module is integrated into the gas mixing system. The gas analyser continuously monitors the correct composition of the gas mixture. This ensures the correct gas mixture inside your packaging.
Incidentally, if you use a flow packer, you can even save gas and money with an integrated gas analyser. The gas supply is automatically reduced as long as the measured oxygen concentration is below the set limit. You only use as much gas as is essential for the optimal packaging result.
Sample gas analysis is widely established as a means of quality control. A needle is used to take a sample from the packaging. High-quality gas analysers such as the OXYBABY ® from WITT are extremely precise and fast and require only a very small amount of gas. Thus, they are also suitable for packaging with a very small headspace. The OXYBABY ® is one of the most widely used measuring instruments worldwide. The special feature: the needle is integrated into the housing. The OXYBABY ® can therefore be operated with one hand and is ideal for the mobile packaging test.
Step 3: Don’ t forget package leak testing
Leak testing is the important third step. As an entry-level solution for leak testing, the LEAK-MASTER ® EASY from WITT is a very simple but highly effective device. The product comes into a water-filled chamber.
By means of compressed air, the air space above the water level is evacuated. Due to the resulting pressure difference, air or protective gas escapes at leaks and pearls up visibly. The big advantage of this method: the quality tester can easily see where the packaging is leaky.
The highest level of safety is offered by inline testing done by the LEAK- MASTER ® MAPMAX. The MAPMAX is integrated into the packaging line and tests the entire production output using CO2 sensors. It makes sense to focus on the detection of CO2, as this gas features in most inert gas packaging.
Up to 15 test cycles per minute make the MAPMAX unique worldwide for this type of leak test. In addition to single packs, you can also check outer packs and entire boxes.
Just three steps to consider, and you will get perfection in modified atmosphere packaging.
Inline package leak detector LEAK-MASTER ® MAPMAX
WITT-Gasetechnik GmbH & Co KG
www. wittgas. com Phone: + 49( 0) 2302 8901-0
witt @ wittgas. com FDPP- www. fdpp. co. uk 19