Detection system pinpoints packaging leaks

Leaks in packaging are often a double-whammy, allowing the inert gases used to extend shelf life to escape while allowing oxygen and possibly contamination in, which causes goods to spoil. UK-based Witt Gas Techniques said its new Leak-Master Mapmax micro-leak detection systems for rigid and flexible modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is designed to carry out automatic quality control over an entire packaging line. MAP is used extensively in the food industry to extend shelf life. Typically, air is removed from the space above the food and inert gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen are flushed in. The Leak-Master monitors small leaks of CO2 from packaging without harming the products and so those that are not fully sealed can simply be re-introduced onto the packaging line whe fixed. The testing chamber can perform up to 15 analyses per minute of both individual packages and complete cartons, ensuring quality control of packaging does not hot up the production line, the company claims. At 1.8m long, the Leak-Master also fits into most production lines. Witt said that two machines have recently completed production trials at two UK food producers. The company claims the machines were retrofitted into existing lines and were used to test sealings on boxes containing up to 12 packs of food. The trials, which lasted two weeks, enabled the companies to locate leaks, reduce costs and returns, the manufacturer claims. Germany-based Witt-Gasetechnik manufacturers gas and gas detection equipment across 50 countries worldwide.