Leak Detector for Flexible Packages

The Contura Z is a non-destructive leak detector capable of finding ultra small leaks - even those leading to bacteria or virus contamination - during flexible, semi-rigid and rigid packaging productions. The detector evaluates process controls on seal temperature, pressure and swell and provides a quantitative measure of the package's strength and integrity. It also monitors the entire packaging process by statistical process control (SPC) for closed-loop quality control. The unit can leak test one package or several in parallel, making it possible to monitor several production lines simultaneously without conversion.

The detection limit of <10-7 mbar of the detector is achievable by means of a mass-spectrometric analysis with a test gas. However, if sensitive flexible packages are subjected to such a pressure difference, the sealing seams could be so severely strained that the package may even burst open. Such loading is precluded by the unit's foil-chamber principle.

The product to be tested is placed manually or automatically onto the bottom foil. When the flap is closed, the test sequence is initiated automatically and lasts about 15 seconds. During evacuation, the pressure of the atmosphere presses the highly elastic foils against the package, and the product's contour is clearly outlined. The internal pressure of the package braces the foils securely from the inside, resulting in a force equilibrium that does not exert any load on the sealing seams.

The detector's accuracy can be checked at any time with a calibrated test leak. The test leak is also used to calibrate the device.

Leybold Inficon, Two Technology Place, East Syracuse, NY 13057. Tel: 315-434-1100; Fax: 315-437-3803.