Permeability Testing Critical Considerations for Ensuring High Barrier Package Integrity

Permeability of films is classified based on their gas transmission rate at a specific thickness. High barrier films exhibit the lowest transmission rate, followed by barrier films and low barrier films. Due to their superior gas barrier properties, high barrier films are increasingly important in the packaging industry.

Since most packaging materials undergo reprocessing steps like coextrusion or lamination, it's essential to test the permeability of the final product to ensure package quality. Reprocessing can alter the physical and chemical properties of the raw materials, affecting their permeability. The chosen test method can significantly impact the results. For instance, in the differential pressure method using a vacuum, the degree of vacuum achieved in the test chamber is critical. Standards like ASTM D 1434 and ISO 2556 specify the required vacuum level.

Several instrument parameters are crucial for accurate testing of high barrier films. For example, vacuum gauge and temperature control. The instrument must have a vacuum gauge with a suitable range and high precision as specified by relevant standards. The gauge's resolution, which defines the smallest detectable pressure change, is particularly important. A wider range often comes with lower resolution, requiring longer testing times for high barrier films. Temperature fluctuations can significantly affect permeability test results. The test instrument should ideally have a temperature control function or excellent insulation to minimize the impact of ambient temperature variations.

Labthink C130H Gas Permeability Tester is based on the differential pressure method, and is professionally applicable to the determination of gas transmission rate, solubility coefficient, diffusion coefficient and permeability coefficient of plastic films, composite films, high barrier materials, sheets, and metal foils. Its Excellent temperature and pressure control technique and high precision vacuum sensor enables tests of ultra-high barrier property at different temperatures.

Testing high barrier films requires longer durations compared to other films due to their low gas permeability. The pressure change in the test chamber during the test is also minimal for high barrier films. This necessitates a longer testing time to collect enough data for accurate measurement.

Testing high barrier films demands meticulous attention to test conditions, equipment specifications, and test procedures. Careful selection of instruments with high-precision vacuum gauges and effective temperature control is essential. Since high barrier films exhibit minimal pressure changes during testing, extended test durations are necessary for reliable results.



As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Measurement Techniques for Permeability of Gases and Vapors Through Polymer Films

Permeability is a crucial property for various polymer film applications, including packaging, medical devices, and protective coatings. It signifies the ability of a material to allow gases, vapors, or liquids to pass through its structure. This report explores two standard methods for measuring the permeability of oxygen, carbon dioxide, water vapor, and organic vapors through flat polymer structures: the continuous-flow method and the lag-time method.

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) International provides standardized procedures for permeability measurements. ASTM D 3985-81 outlines the method for measuring oxygen and carbon dioxide gas permeability, while ASTM E 96-80 details the measurement of water vapor permeability. Permeability of organic vapors is often determined using similar principles, with commercially available equipment from companies like MAS Technologies Inc. and Modern Controls Inc.

C403H Oxygen /Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System is based on the testing principle of Coulometric oxygen sensor and infrared water vapor sensor. It is designed and manufactured according to ASTM D3985、ASTM F1249，ISO 15106-2

C360H Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System, is designed and manufactured based on the gravimetric determination method and conforms to the requirements of ASTM E96.

Continuous-Flow Method

This technique involves exposing one side of a polymer film sample to a constant flow of the permeant gas or vapor. The permeant diffuses through the film, and the permeation rate is measured on the opposite side. Fick's second law of diffusion governs this process, and its solution allows for the calculation of the diffusion coefficient (D) and permeability coefficient (P) based on the flow rate data. Equation (2) provides a simplified approach to calculate D based on the time required to reach a specific fraction of the steady-state flow rate (Fss).

Lag-Time Method

This method utilizes a different approach. The polymer film sample initially contains no permeant. One side is then exposed to a constant concentration of the permeant gas or vapor. The permeant accumulates in the film and then diffuses through it. The lag time (θ) is the time it takes for the permeant to reach the opposite side and be detectable. Equation (7) relates the lag time to the diffusion coefficient.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

Both methods involve analyzing the obtained data (flow rate vs. time for continuous-flow and permeant concentration vs. time for lag-time) to calculate the relevant parameters. The continuous-flow method often utilizes linear regression techniques to determine the slope for calculating D. The lag-time method relies on identifying the intercept of the steady-state line with the time axis to obtain the lag time (θ).



The continuous-flow and lag-time methods offer valuable tools for characterizing the permeability of gases and vapors in flat polymer structures. Choosing the appropriate method depends on factors like desired sensitivity and experimental setup. Both techniques rely on established mathematical models like Fick's second law of diffusion for data analysis and parameter calculation. Understanding these methods is essential for selecting suitable polymer materials for various applications with specific permeability requirements.



As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Testing Regimes for the Non-Metal Cars Parts Materials

The auto industry is witnessing a surge in the use of non-metal materials. This trend is fueled by advancements in material processing technology and the potential benefits these materials offer.

 
However, this increased use of non-metal materials comes with a new set of challenges. Unlike traditional metals, non-metal materials can emit hazardous substances or be susceptible to factors like condensation and gas permeability. These factors can negatively impact factors such as driver safety, comfort, and overall car performance.To address these concerns, the development of corresponding test methods, standards, and instruments is crucial.

Ensuring Clear Visibility: Fogging Test

Interior car materials, such as plastics, textiles, and adhesives, can emit volatile substances when heated. These substances can condense on the windshield, reducing visibility and creating a safety hazard.

The fogging test helps assess this fogging property. Labthink FT-F1 fogging tester is professionally designed for the fogging characteristics evaluation of volatile constituents of decorating materials used in cars and aircrafts, e.g. plastic articles, polyurethane, textiles, leather, adhesives, nonwovens and thermal forming elastomers at high temperature conditions. It also could be used for the fogging phenomenon test of high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps of cars.

Breathable Comfort: Seat Material Permeability Testing

Long journeys can leave drivers feeling sweaty and uncomfortable. To ensure passenger comfort, seat materials need to be breathable and allow for proper moisture transfer.

The gas permeability test measures the transmission rate of gas through the seat material. Similarly, the water vapor permeability test assesses how effectively the material allows moisture to pass through. These tests ensure that drivers stay cool and comfortable during extended car trips.

Labthink C360M Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System, is designed and manufactured based on the gravimetric determination method and conforms to the requirements of ASTM E96. This instrument can be used to measure the water vapor transmission rate of barrier materials with high, medium and lower moisture barrier properties with a wide testing range and high testing efficiency.

Maintaining Air Pressure: Inner Tube and Airbag Testing

Both car inner tubes and airbags require good gas barrier properties. Inner tubes need to maintain inflation pressure for long periods, while airbags need to inflate rapidly during a collision and retain pressure to provide protection.

Traditional testing methods for these components involve inflating them and monitoring pressure loss over time. However, these methods can be time-consuming, taking up to a year to obtain results. Modern testing instruments, like the Labthink VAC-V2 gas permeability tester, can significantly improve testing efficiency by measuring gas transmission through material samples in a much shorter timeframe.

Conclusion

The growing use of non-metal materials in automobiles presents exciting opportunities for car design and performance. However, ensuring the safety and quality of these materials requires rigorous testing procedures. By implementing these tests, the auto industry can leverage the full potential of non-metal materials while guaranteeing a safe and comfortable driving experience.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Tests for Integrating User-Friendly Opening Mechanisms into Package Design

Containers encompass bottle and cup forms. Bottle caps should be designed for easy opening, typically by controlling the torque force required for rotation. Special attention is given to pull-tab caps, ensuring they open with a designated amount of force. Cups are generally opened by peeling a sealed area or puncturing the rim using tools like straws. Here, the focus is on adjusting the seal strength or puncture resistance of the material according to the package's contents and target consumers. For instance, children's beverage packaging should consider a child's grip and wrist strength when designing the opening mechanism.

Several key parameters are identified to improve opening easiness in containers:

Friction Coefficient Testing: This test measures the friction on the external package wall, bottle cap surface, and cap material surface. A low friction coefficient on the external wall can make the bottle slippery and difficult to hold during opening. Conversely, a high friction coefficient between the bottle cap and hand improves grip during twisting. Similarly, a high friction coefficient on the sealing film of a cup lid enhances grip while peeling it open.

Torque Force Test: This test is crucial for containers opened by rotating a cap. By controlling the torque force applied during cap placement on the production line, a consistent opening experience is ensured.

Seal Strength Test: This test is vital for cups sealed with a film material at the rim, such as yogurt cups. The seal strength needs to be balanced - too weak and the seal might break during transportation, while too strong and it becomes difficult to peel open. The test considers the cap material, cup body sealing method, film sealing type, and the shape of the seal.

Puncture Resistance Test: This test is relevant for packages opened by puncturing the lid, such as some yogurt cups. The puncture resistance needs to be adequate to withstand external force during transportation without breaking, but also allow for easy opening with a tool like a straw.

Flexible bags come in various forms and are commonly used for small packaged foods, medical granules, and daily-use items. Ideally, these packages should be opened conveniently without scissors or other tools, aligning with their portability and ease-of-use characteristics. Here are some parameters to consider for improving opening easiness in flexible bags:

Friction Coefficient: Similar to containers, the friction coefficient of the external package surface is crucial for consumers to grip the bag and avoid slippage while opening.

Tearing Strength Test: Easy-open apertures are a preferred opening method for flexible bags as they require minimal force and no tools. The force required to open an easy-open aperture is estimated by measuring the tearing strength of the film. The tearing strength can vary depending on the direction of force applied due to the inherent properties of the film material. Therefore, the design of the easy-open aperture should consider the material's tearing strength to optimize the opening experience.

Seal Property Testing: Another common opening method involves peeling open the sealed end of the bag. The seal strength in this area needs to be sufficient to protect the contents during storage and transportation. However, it should also be weak enough to allow for easy peeling without compromising the integrity of the contents. The optimal seal strength depends on the specific package material and its contents and should be determined through comprehensive testing.


As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Crucial Seal Integrity Tests for Optimizing Package Design and Manufacturing Processes

The effectiveness of flexible packaging relies heavily on its sealability. Leaks can compromise the barrier properties of the packaging material, leading to product spoilage due to gas or liquid permeation. However, the specific sealability requirements vary depending on the packaging style. For instance, heat-sealed packages are susceptible to leaks at the seal edges, necessitating tests that evaluate heat seal strength, quality, and burst pressure. In contrast, pilfer-proof closures require assessments of cap integrity, torsional airproof index, and cap joint/disengaging strength.

General sealability testing involve pressurizing the package interior to create a pressure differential between the inside and outside environments. This approach can be implemented using either positive pressure (air inflation) or negative pressure (vacuum).

Labthink C660M Leak and Seal Strength Tester is designed base on the positive pressure test methods, it is applicable to quantitative determination of seal strength, seal quality, burst pressure and seal integrity, as well as compression resistance, torsion force and joint/disengaging force of various flexible packages, aseptic packages, plastic tamper-evident closures, flexible tubes, caps and other materials. It offers targeted testing through the use of restraining plates for heat seal edges and specialized accessories for open packages.

• žBurst Test: This method measures the maximum pressure a package can withstand before bursting by steadily inflating it with air.
• Creep Test: The package is pressurized for a predetermined time period. Packages that do not leak during this period are considered to have passed the test.
• Creep to Failure: Similar to the creep test, but with a higher pressure applied until the package leaks. This test determines the time it takes for the package to fail under pressure.

C660M can accommodate both open and closed flexible packages. Closed packages, typically with complete seals and strong heat seal edges, require a circular hole to be created for probe insertion. The recommended opening position is the center of the bag. Open packages, such as three-sided sealed bags or shopping bags, necessitate specialized accessories to evaluate the seal integrity of the sealed sides. Labthink C660M offers such accessories for open package testing, which can be further enhanced by combining them with restraining plates for heat seal edge evaluation.

Labthink C660M Leak and Seal Strength Tester comprehensive and systematic approach to sealability testing for various flexible packaging materials. It facilitates the identification of weak points and allows for targeted improvements in heat seal layer material thickness, film burst resistance, and relevant heat seal parameters. The C660M versatility extends beyond sealability testing, enabling the integration of other methods to assess package content integrity and seal consistency.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Testing Film and Sheet Water Vapor Permeability with gravimetric and Sensor method

Water vapor permeability is a key performance indicator for the water barrier properties of packaging materials like films and sheets. It reflects the amount of water vapor that can permeate a material of specific thickness under controlled conditions of temperature and relative humidity.

The gravimetric method, introduced in the mid-19th century, is the foundation for WVP testing. It directly measures the weight change of a desiccant exposed to water vapor transmitted through the test specimen. This method is enshrined in ASTM E 96, the first water vapor permeability testing standard established in 1953.

Modern gravimetric instruments combine the testing environment and weighing into a single unit, enhancing accuracy and simplifying operation. Advancements in weighing technology further improve test efficiency and precision.

Labthink C360H Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System is developed based on the gravimetric determination method and conforms to ASTM E96.

Sensor methods encompass various technologies like relative humidity, infrared, and electrolytic sensors. These methods offer faster testing compared to the gravimetric method and can potentially simulate real-world packaging conditions.

Labthink C303H Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System utilizes infrared water vapor sensor, it is developed according to ASTM F1249 and ISO 15106-2.

With multiple water vapor permeability testing methods available, gravimetric method stands out as the most widely used and reliable one. Its ability to function independently, combined with its scientific basis and demonstrably high repeatability, makes it the undisputed arbitration method for water vapor permeability disputes.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Optimizing Blister Package Material Performance Through Impact Resistance Testing

Blister packages (PTP packages) are widely used for solid pharmaceuticals like tablets and capsules. Material selection for these packages is crucial as it impacts the integrity and shelf life of the medication. Impact resistance is a critical mechanical property that ensures the package can withstand potential impacts during storage and transportation.

 

Impact resistance testing offers several benefits for manufacturers and users of blister package materials. It ensures product integrity. By identifying materials with sufficient impact resistance, manufacturers can minimize the risk of damage to packaged medications during handling and distribution. The test helps Maintaining product quality by Maintaining package integrity safeguards the quality and efficacy of the medication throughout its shelf life.

The commonly used methods in impact resistance test include pendulum impact test, falling dart impact test and falling ball impact test. In falling dart and falling ball impact testing, falling body impact the specimen falling freely from a specific height to test specimen impact resistance. The extent of damage to the specimen, evaluated based on standardized criteria, determines the material's impact resistance.

Labthink C670M Falling Dart Impact Tester is suitable for measuring the impact mass and energy of plastic film or sheet when 50% of the sample is damaged under the impact of free-falling dart at a given height.

In conclusion, impact resistance testing plays a vital role in the quality control of blister package materials. By employing the falling ball impact test method and utilizing a dedicated testing instrument, manufacturers can select suitable materials that ensure the safe and effective delivery of pharmaceuticals to patients.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Optimizing Dairy Product Packaging Selection Through Barrier Property Testing

Light, oxygen, and water vapor are identified as the primary factors contributing to dairy spoilage. Light exposure can degrade vitamins and negatively impact flavor, while oxygen accelerates oxidation reactions leading to product quality decline. Water vapor transmission can affect product texture and consistency.

Two primary test items are employed to evaluate the barrier properties of dairy packaging materials:

Oxygen barrier Test: This test, potentially utilizing instruments like the Labthink C206H Oxygen Transmission Rate Test System, measures the rate of oxygen permeation through the packaging material. Lower oxygen permeability values indicate superior barrier properties.

Water Vapor barrier Test: This test assesses the rate of water vapor transmission through the packaging. Lower water vapor permeability signifies a stronger barrier against moisture. C406H Oxygen/Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System is developed for measuring the oxygen and water vapor transmission rate of barrier materials

The selection of packaging materials for dairy products should prioritize achieving the desired shelf life while optimizing cost-effectiveness. High barrier materials, such as paper molded aluminum foil laminates or aluminum laminated plastic films, offer extended shelf life (months) and eliminate the need for strict cold storage requirements. Conversely, low barrier materials like PE monochrome films have a shorter shelf life (days) but are more economical.

Table 1 (see attached) presents the barrier properties of various commonly used dairy packaging materials. Paper molded laminated materials and aluminum laminated films exhibit the best barrier properties against both oxygen and water vapor, justifying their use for products with longer shelf life. Coated/laminated films offer a medium barrier performance at a moderate cost. PE monochrome films, while cost-effective, demonstrate the weakest barrier properties.



Table 1: Barrier Property Test Data of Dairy Packaging Materials

Barrier testing plays a critical role in selecting appropriate packaging materials for dairy products. The optimal packaging material balances the desired shelf life with cost considerations. While current domestic dairy packaging materials meet general quality assurance requirements, there is a need for further development of high-barrier materials to support the introduction of innovative dairy products and processing technologies.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Test Methods and Instruments for Evaluating Material Permeability

Permeability refers to a material's ability to allow a substance, such as a gas or vapor, to pass through it. It is an inherent property of the material and plays a crucial role in packaging applications. Materials with low permeability are ideal for preserving the shelf life of products by restricting oxygen and moisture ingress.

Two primary methods are employed for permeability testing, differential pressure method and sensor method.

Differential pressure method is widely used and involves creating a pressure difference across the test material. One side of the sample is exposed to the target gas or vapor at a higher concentration, while the other side is maintained at a lower concentration. Instruments employing this method typically measure the flow rate of the permeating substance across the material under a constant pressure difference.

 

Labthink C101B, C106H , C130H and VAC-V2 Gas Permeability Testers are developed based on the differential pressure method. These instruments measure the permeability of various gases like oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen. They are often automated and can analyze several samples simultaneously.

Sensor method utilizes sensors to detect the permeating gas or vapor directly. These sensors can be electrochemical or optical, depending on the specific gas being measured. While less common than the differential pressure method, sensor-based instruments offer advantages like faster testing times and higher sensitivity for certain gases.

Several factors influence the selection of a suitable test method and instrument, such as type of permeate, testing standards, material properties and testing conditions. In addition, temperature, humidity, and pressure conditions during testing significantly impact permeability values.

Permeability testing plays a vital role in material selection for packaging and other applications. Understanding the available test methods and instruments empowers researchers and manufacturers to evaluate the performance of materials in terms of gas and water vapor barrier properties. Careful consideration of permeate type, testing standards, material characteristics, and testing conditions is crucial for obtaining reliable and meaningful permeability data.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Influence of Temperature on Friction Coefficient of Film Materials

Friction coefficient is a crucial factor in the packaging process, affecting both drag and resistance forces.

This study utilizes a Labthink C620H Friction / Peel Tester to measure the coefficient of static and kinetic friction for two representative materials: PC film and aluminum foil complex film. The tests were conducted at varying temperatures ranging from room temperature to 90.0 °C.

Tested Materials include a PC film, which is a common type of plastic film used in packaging applications, and an Aluminum foil complex film, this film combines aluminum foil with another material, likely plastic, to offer specific properties like barrier protection.

Labthink C620H Friction / Peel Tester is utilized in this study. This instrument measures coefficient of static and kinetic friction of plastic films, sheets, foils, paper, and many other materials, it can also measure the peel strength of adhesive laminated products, medical adhesive bandage, release paper and protection films.

The test result revealed that temperature has a significant influence on the friction coefficient of both films. However, the effect varied between the materials and between the static and kinetic coefficients for the same material. PC film exhibited a steady increase in the static friction coefficient with rising temperature. The kinetic friction coefficient also increased overall but demonstrated a more significant variation compared to the static coefficient. Aluminum foil complex film displayed a less pronounced rise in friction coefficient compared to PC film. Notably, the kinetic friction coefficient for aluminum foil remained relatively stable throughout the temperature range.

In Conclusion, selecting packaging materials needs to consider temperature's influence on friction coefficient. Material properties like stiffness, smoothness, and the presence of additives also play a role. It's crucial to test the friction coefficient under realistic operating temperatures, not just at room temperature, to ensure optimal packaging performance. The Labthink C620H Friction / Peel Tester offers a valuable tool for conducting these tests and controlling friction coefficient within the desired range for successful packaging operations.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Optimizing Shelf Life Prediction with Headspace Gas Analysis

Headspace gas analysis is usually applied for monitoring and ensuring packaging quality control by analyzing the factors influencing product shelf life and the role of gas composition within the package. There are some commonly recognized key considerations for selecting suitable headspace gas analyzers.

Packaging plays a crucial role in preserving product quality and extending shelf life. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and controlled atmosphere packaging (CAP) techniques utilize specific gas mixtures within the package to achieve this goal. However, maintaining the desired gas composition throughout the product's life cycle is essential. Headspace gas analysis offers a valuable tool for monitoring gas composition within the package and ensuring packaging integrity.

The primary factors influencing product shelf life include oxygen and water vapor content. Oxygen can degrade product quality through oxidation, leading to discoloration, rancidity, and growth of aerobic bacteria. Conversely, carbon dioxide can inhibit bacterial growth and extend shelf life for certain products.

Headspace gas analysis involves extracting and measuring the gas composition within the headspace, the empty space in a sealed package. This analysis helps assess the current product quality, product shelf life prediction, and package integrity.

Several factors are crucial when selecting a headspace gas analyzer for quality control applications, for example, the instrument should be capable of detecting relevant gases, typically oxygen and carbon dioxide, for a comprehensive analysis; a rapid response time minimizes contamination of the test gas by leakage during probe insertion; long sensor life reduces maintenance costs and downtime.

Labthink C650H, C650M, C650B Headspace Gas Analyzers are comprehensive headspace gas analyzers which meet various tests requirements. They measure both oxygen and carbon dioxide content, analyze gas from small-scale packaging. They also have a fast response time and long sensor life. C650M and C650B portable design allows for on-site testing.

Headspace gas analysis offers a valuable technique for monitoring gas composition within packaging and ensuring quality control. Careful selection of an analyzer based on the factors discussed allows manufacturers to optimize packaging design, predict shelf life, and maintain product integrity.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films.

Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Accurate Thickness Measurement of Package Materials

Package materials come in various types, including metal, non-metal, glossy and non-glossy options. They can be single-layered, complex, or co-extruded. Thickness is an important factor affecting both cost and productivity. Thinner materials are generally less expensive and allow for faster production. Thickness testing is essential for quality control.

Several types of thickness testers are available, including laser, capacitive, eddy current, and mechanical testers. Each has limitations. Non-contact testers may not work for all materials, while mechanical testers can be used for a wider range of materials.

Mechanical thickness testers use a precision sensor to measure the displacement of a presser foot contacting the material. They are accurate but require a lab environment to avoid errors caused by temperature and wind. The Labthinkabthink C640 Thickness Tester is a high-resolution mechanical thickness tester.

There are two main challenges in designing mechanical thickness testers: controlling the pressure of the presser foot and ensuring parallelism between the presser foot and the anvil.

Flexible package materials can compress when pressed. The tester must apply the correct pressure according to the testing standard. Different standards specify different pressures. Failing to meet these requirements can lead to inaccurate measurements.

The presser foot and anvil must be parallel and the presser foot movement must be perpendicular to the anvil surface. This is critical for ensuring measurement accuracy. The Labthink C640 Thickness Tester uses an automatic leveling structure to address this challenge.

Mechanical thickness testers are the preferred choice for testing the thickness of many package materials. It is important to choose a tester that meets the requirements of the testing standard, including pressure and parallelism. By following these guidelines, manufacturers can ensure accurate and reliable thickness measurements.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Optimizing Hot Sealing Parameters: Maximizing Efficiency and Material Performance in Form-Fill-Seal (FFS) Applications

Hot tack testing plays an important role in selecting optimal hot sealing parameters for Form-Fill-Seal (FFS) lines. Hot tack refers to the initial seal strength of packaging materials immediately after heat sealing, before they cool down. It is crucial for FFS lines where product filling follows hot sealing with minimal cooling time.

FFS lines are widely used in packaging industries for products like food, medicine, and cosmetics. In these lines, packages are formed and filled simultaneously. Since the filling process creates an impact on the package bottom, sufficient hot tack strength is essential to prevent breakage and ensure filling efficiency. While ultimate seal strength, measured after cooling, is a valuable quality metric, it's not applicable in FFS due to the short time frame.

A case study is presented hereunder, Labthink C632B Hot Tack Tester was used to evaluate two film materials (A and B) for an East Asian food producer. Both films had similar performance parameters, but the goal was to select the material that would optimize the FFS line's efficiency. The client's requirements specified a maximum sealing temperature of 133°C and a minimum hot tack strength of 2N. Other sealing parameters like sealing pressure and film side for sealing were fixed.

Labthink C632B Hot Tack Tester is applicable in hot tack and heat seal performance tests for plastic films, laminated films and other packaging materials. It is applicable in peel test, tensile at break test, and other tests for adhesives, adhesive tapes, laminated films, plastic films, paper and other flexible materials.

The test results revealed that both films exhibited an optimal hot sealing temperature around which hot tack strength decreased. Film A achieved the client's minimum hot tack requirement only at higher temperatures (127°C - 133°C) and with longer sealing times (above 0.5s). In contrast, Film B surpassed the requirement at a wider temperature range (118°C - 133°C) and even with shorter sealing times (as low as 0.3s).

Based on the test results, Film B was recommended due to its superior hot tack performance at lower temperatures and shorter sealing times. This translates to increased production efficiency as it allows for faster sealing cycles with lower energy consumption. The report acknowledges the need for further testing to fine-tune the sealing temperature for optimal and consistent sealing across the production line. It also emphasizes considering material cost alongside hot tack performance for a holistic cost-efficiency analysis.

Hot tack testing plays a critical role in selecting optimal hot sealing parameters for FFS lines. By identifying materials with superior hot tack properties, manufacturers can achieve higher production efficiency through faster sealing cycles and lower energy usage. This report highlights the importance of hot tack testing in optimizing production line performance within the packaging industry.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films.

Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!

Breakage prevention Testing Ensures Flexible Package Seal Integrity from Transportation to Storage

There are two main causes of flexible package breakage, breakage during filling process due to impact on the bottom of the pouch caused by product filling, and breakage during storage due to inner pressure increase from stacking finished products.

Many tests can measure the heat seal strength of finished packages and prevent the breakage during transportation and storage.

Tensile test: This test measures the stretching heat seal strength, which is unsuitable for storage pressure but useful for evaluating opening ease of the package.

Labthink C610H Auto Tensile Tester is professionally applicable to measurement of tensile, peeling, deformation, tearing, heat sealing, adhesive, puncture force, opening force, pulling force and low speed unwrapping force as well as other properties of plastic films, composite materials, soft package materials, plastic flexible tube, adhesives, adhesive tapes, label stickers, medical plasters, release paper, protective films, combined caps, aluminum foils, diaphragms, back sheets, non-woven fabrics, rubber and paper, etc.

Leak and heat seal strength test: This test measures the expanding heat seal strength, which is suitable for assessing pressure resistance of the package. It pressurizes the pouch to find the weakest heat seal and measures the maximum breaking force and time.

Labthink C660M Leak and Seal Strength Tester is professionally applicable to quantitative determination of seal strength, seal quality, burst pressure, seal integrity, compression resistance, torsion force and joint/disengaging force of various flexible packages, aseptic packages, plastic tamper-evident closures, flexible tubes, caps and other materials.

Hot Tack Force Testing: This test measures the peeling force of the heat seal before cooling. By analyzing the relationship between hot tack force, heat seal temperature, and time, manufacturers can find the optimal heat seal parameters for their production line.

Labthink C632B Hot Tack Tester is applicable in hot tack and heat seal performance tests for plastic films, laminated films and other packaging materials. It is applicable in peel test, tensile at break test, and other tests for adhesives, adhesive tapes, laminated films, plastic films, paper and other flexible materials.

These Test Results are used to improve packaging functionality and package design. Manufacturers can design the stacking structure of the packages to improve efficiency and prevent breakage. Heat seal parameters like temperature, pressure, and time should be adjusted based on test results, product characteristics (e.g., powdered products may require additional testing), and material properties.

Testing packaging seal integrity is crucial for selecting appropriate heat seal parameters that minimize breakage during filling, storage, and transportation. These parameters should be based on test data and consider product and material characteristics.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films.

Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!