WITT-Gasetechnik: How to prevent MAP packaging leaks

Leaking modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) poses a significant risk for food manufacturers. A leak can shorten the shelf life of products, lead to spoilage and cause expensive product recalls. To meet these challenges, WITT-Gasetechnik designed the LEAK-MASTER® PRO/PRO 2 series where leak detectors reliably detect even micro-leaks as small as 10 micrometers and they work fast and non-destructively. The benefits to food manufacturers: maximum product quality and food safety with minimum effort.

CO₂ sensor technology: Fast and accurate results - operator-independent and standardized

The high precision of the LEAK-MASTER® PRO/PRO 2 series is based on its advanced CO₂ sensor technology. As CO₂ is already included in most MAPs, it is a much lower cost alternative to trace gases such as helium. The testing process is extremely simple and highly effective: A vacuum of down to 200 mbar absolute is generated in the measuring chamber. The resulting pressure difference causes inert gas containing CO₂ to escape from any packaging leak. Highly sensitive sensors detect this gas in a matter of seconds, so that even the smallest leaks are detected.

This rapid inspection process saves valuable working time and resources. The entire process is fully automated, ensuring operator-independent and standardized results. This guarantees maximum reliability and reproducibility and also simplifies certification. As the test is non-destructive, non-leaking packs can be sold directly after the test without being rejected.

Suitable testing devices for all packaging sizes

The LEAK-MASTER® PRO/PRO 2 series is designed for maximum flexibility in practice. Six different chamber sizes are available to match the different packaging sizes. The various PRO 2 table-top devices are ideal for the precise individual inspection of small to medium-sized packaging. For larger packaging, complete cartons or E2 boxes, the large PRO stand-alone device is the first choice. All devices can be operated quickly and easily using a touch display. To further speed up processes, user login and product selection can optionally be carried out using a barcode reader.

Highlights of the PRO 2: integrated LED lighting and operation with compressed air

The latest generation LEAK-MASTER® PRO 2 has been design-focused on simplicity of operation and maximum user convenience. The integrated LED lighting is a clear functional highlight. It lights up blue during the measurement and signals the result in red for 'failed' or green for 'passed', depending on the status. This ishighly intuitive for the user. The vacuum in the PRO 2 is generated using compressed air and a Venturi nozzle as standard. This makes the device extremely low-maintenance and durable, which significantly reduces operating costs. An optional version with an electric vacuum pump is also available if no compressed air is available.

Digital documentation for seamless quality assurance

All test processes are fully digitally documented in the device memory. The measurement results, including date, time, product details and name of the tester, can be archived using WITT software. Export as a CSV file, for example for processing in MS Excel®, is also possible.