New micro-leak detection system launched

Edited by the Processingtalk editorial team Sep 6, 2005

A new automated in-line micro-leak detection system, Leak-Master Inline, can be retrofitted onto food and pharmaceutical packaging lines to find CO2 leaks in flexible and rigid packaging

Witt Gas Techniques, the Warrington, Cheshire based gas safety, control, mixing and analysis equipment supplier has launched Leak-Master Inline, a new automated in-line micro leak detection system that can be retrofitted onto food and pharmaceutical packaging lines to find CO2 leaks in flexible and rigid packaging: it is based on CO2 detection technology using a ceramic CO2 sensor with a measuring range of 0 - 5,000 ppm.

This new system allows for all packaging to be tested for leaks, immediately after the packing process and offers non-destructive detection of the smallest of leaks.

Leak-Master Inline can detect leaks in individual packaging or on fully loaded pallets, which are automatically and precisely positioned in the testing chamber, a vacuum is created, the sensor will then react immediately to any leak.

The inspection is non-destructive and the use of Helium, an expensive tracer gas is not necessary.

The easy to clean, stainless steel vacuum chamber, which is available in a range of sizes to handle most food and pharmaceutical packaging, is ventilated after each test: up to 12 to 15 test cycles per minute can be carried out.

The response time to find a leak is around 1 second and no calibration is necessary by the user.

If the maximum concentration of CO2 ppm/s is exceeded, Leak-Master Inline, using either an external audible or visual alarm, is able to alert the packaging line operator for any leaks.

It is operator friendly, with no special operator skills being required.

Data and process parameters can be entered through an integrated PLC with a touch screen or via a remote computer.

Data results for evaluation by the user can be stored to produce quality control management documentation used in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Leak-Master Inline can be interfaced to a PC or a PDA via Ethernet or Wireless LAN, eliminating the need for manual data recording.