What Is the Flow Rate Seal Integrity Testing Method?
Flow rate testing involves carefully introducing gas into a package via a needle probe and monitoring the flow required to maintain a specific pressure level. A stable flow rate indicates the seal is uncompromised and effectively retaining pressure. A significant increase in flow rate or gas leak indicates a weakness in the packaging.
The flow rate rate can be correlated to an equivalent hole size ranging from 5 – 500 µm and analysed on-screen or sent to a PC for further evaluation.
Relevant Standards and Packaging Suitability
- Standard Test Method for Detecting Gross Leaks in Packaging by Internal Pressurization (Bubble Test) — ASTM F2096 – 11
- Vacuum-packaged food, pharmaceutical and medical device packaging
- Nonporous flexible food, pharmaceutical and medical device packaging with limited or ample headspace
- Rigid containers with flexible and non-flexible lid seals
- Tyvek® food, pharmaceutical and medical device packaging
Advantages of Flow Rate Seal Integrity Testing
Flow rate seal integrity testing provides an absolute, quantitative value for the leak by directly measuring the gas passing through the package. Unlike visual detection methods, a flow rate test produces objective results.
With a wide detection range, this method is also versatile, allowing operators to quickly and easily identify small and large leaks.
Disadvantages of Flow Rate Seal Integrity Testing
The flow rate seal integrity method is destructive as it requires piercing the package. This can pose a safety risk, too. Manufacturers must take precautions to ensure operators’ safety, including providing training and protective equipment and enforcing safe handling procedures.
The reliability of flow rate testing as a seal integrity method also depends on the skill and experience of the operator. Even a slight variation in the needle entry point can impact test results.
Another disadvantage of this method is that a detection medium is necessary to identify the leak path location. This commonly requires submerging the package in water and observing where bubbles form.
Learn More about Leak Detection and Seal Integrity
Seal integrity testing is pivotal in protecting against leaks or defects and ensuring packaging is safe and effective across multiple use cases and industries. Learn more about leak detection methods and applications by using the links below:
- Learn more about leak detection and seal integrity testing and why it is important
- Learn more about the methods of leak detection and seal integrity testing available
- Learn more about burst, bubble emission and altitude simulation package seal integrity testing
- Learn more about force decay, seal strength and vacuum decay testing
- Learn more about dye penetration seal integrity testing
- Learn more about how to select the right leak detection and seal integrity method for your business
- Learn more about how frequently seal integrity testing should be carried out
- Learn more about how documents and records of seal integrity testing can be stored
Explore Our Range of Leak Detection and Seal Integrity Testing Equipment at LIMAB UK
Our team of product specialists at LIMAB UK get to know the unique needs of your business and provide one-to-one support to find the best package leak detection and seal integrity testing method for you. Request a consultation today by calling +44 (0)1823 668633, emailing hello@limab.co.uk or submitting a contact form.