Every week the developers of Oxipack receive phone calls from R&D managers, product developers, packaging technologist, engineers and packaging development managers. They want to improve their leak detection systems or are enquiring about whether a new packaging concept can be tested.
We are happy to contribute our thoughts about possible leak detection solutions, concerning:
- Leak detection for existing product packaging
- Testing new forms of packaging
- Testing prototypes and initial runs for leaks
- Packaging that at present simply cannot be tested for leaks.
Leak detection for existing product packaging
Problems occur regularly on existing product packaging lines when leaks are not noticed or if leaks are not noticed in time. This is frequently caused by the current packaging leak detection system not being accurate enough. More accurate testing is possible using the leak detection method offered by Oxipack. This method is based on measuring differences in pressure. We set up the required parameters in close cooperation with your production and quality control departments.
Would you like a more in-depth approach? Then Oxipack can bring its experience to bear in the areas of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and leak detection in order to provide a customised in-line leak detection system.
Testing new forms of packaging
Are you involved with a new packaging concept? It is worth considering the possibilities offered by leak detection during the early stages of development; either in-line testing or with random sampling. Whether leak detection is possible depends on the form of the design. Can the packaging design be tested, yes or no? Using the current equipment? If not, what type of leak detection can be applied to meet the quality requirements?
The sooner consideration is given to leak detection during the design process, the easier it is to implement. The same applies with regards to investment.
The right moment to think about leak detection
The sooner leak detection is included in the design process, the easier it is to include it in the design. If the packaging technologist only thinks about how to test for leaks in the new design when putting a new design into production, then it is too late. It is relatively simple to change a detail of the design at an early stage in the process. Which makes in-line leak detection possible.
The sooner consideration is given to leak detection, the simpler it is to implement.
But when should that be? Initially not all parties involved will get to have their say. The marketing department may come up with new product packaging and ultimately takes the lead. Once the packaging technologist, engineer or R&D department are involved in the project, then this is the point at which they can bring up the question of leak detection. So the question is: does the packaging need to be leak free? Can it be tested for leaks? Do we want to have in-line leak testing? Non-destructive testing? Does it comply with our conditions? Do we have the equipment for it? If not, how do we acquire it? These points need to be included in a development check list.
Testing prototypes and initial runs for leaks
Has a new packaging concept been developed? Do you want to have a sample run tested for leaks? Many types of packaging can be immediately tested using stand alone leak detection equipment provided by Oxipack. In this way the basic quality of the new packaging can be determined and a benchmark can be established. For temporary leak detection you can rent accurate measuring equipment from Oxipack or make use of our services for testing prototypes.
Packaging that at present simply cannot be tested for leaks
Sometimes packaging specialists search for years to find a better leak test for their product. This may be because the leaks are very difficult to measure or the current test method is laborious and time consuming. Oxipack would also be pleased to offer their input for customised solutions. We really enjoy a challenge.
