VisionScan 3D is a non-destructive, tool-less leak test for blisters including all foil types.

The Sepha VisionScan 3D is a blister leak test solution that takes non-destructive leak testing to a new level. The next generation machine is built around our new 3D measurement technique to test the integrity of pharmaceutical blister packs.

VisionScan 3D

The 3D technology is used in combination with differential pressure and vacuum and enables the machine to detect leaks in individual blister pockets as low as 5μm (pack and material dependent). The new technology can be applied to all foil types, matt or gloss. Different text patterns can be tested with one test method, making it ideal for production lines with multiple language print variations. The system is designed to allow for easy calibration, quick set up times and a streamlined validation process across different foil types.

The system requires no tooling, while the large test area of 297x210mm enables multiple blister packs to be tested simultaneously. It is ideal for operations where multiple product changes are required. The machine utilizes the principle of vacuum deflection according to ASTM standard test method F3169-16. Compared with previous models (including the Blister Scan and VisionScan) this test principle has not changed. It is the new measurement technique, the 3D sensor that now creates the profile.

The VisionScan 3D offers pharmaceutical manufacturers a flexible, reliable, deterministic and cost saving alternative to a destructive leak test for blisters. The method does not affect the integrity of the blister pack, allowing packs that have passed the test to be returned onto the production line.

  • Features

    • Non-destructive, deterministic blister leak test device designed to test all foil types
    • Utilises vacuum deflection in line with ASTM F3169-16 standard test method, to detect leaks in individual blister pockets, channel leaks and weak seals down to a 5μm laser drilled pin hole (pack and material dependent)
    • Tool-less device making it ideal for production lines running multiple products
    • Large test area (297x210mm) provides high throughput
    • Can test multiple packs per test cycle
    • Can test packs that contain tablets / capsules in multiple material / design formats
    • Streamlined validation process for different foil types
    • Rapid test time down to 60 seconds for micron holes and as low as 30 seconds for gross holes
    • Simple operator use via a touch screen interface
    • Operating system can store unlimited product types
    • Network connectivity to a central server
    • Can form part of 21CFR part 11 compliant system
    • Capable of storing and exporting data for audit and quality control purposes
    • Active Directory and flexible reporting built-in
  • Technical Spec

    Pack type
    Blister Pack

    Test Area
    297mm x 210mm

    Measurement Range
    Will detect defects down to 5μm (pack & material dependent)

    Test Cycle
    Typically from 30 seconds for gross test and from 60 seconds for decay

    Operation
    Semi-Automatic

    Construction
    Anodised Aluminium, Acrylic and Polyurethane Case

    Utilities
    240-100v AC single Phase, 220W Compressed Air: Min. 200L/min at 0.6Mpa [ISO8573- 1:2010 CLASS 2]

    Configuration
    4x USB ports, 1 x Ethernet port

    Tooling Changeover
    Tool-less

    Audit Compliance
    Can be run in compliance with 21 CFR Part 11

    Machine Dimensions
    691mm (L) x 489mm (W) x 701mm (H)

    Weight
    Machine: 68kg Shipping Weight: 110kg

    Warranty
    Supplied with a 12 month warranty. (Extended warranties are available for additional support.)

  • Applications

    Drug stability testing in laboratories
    R&D departments test materials to ensure the correct materials are used to protect new products from contamination by moisture, air and bacteria.

    QA Testing of packaging processes
    Build leak tests into Quality Assurance procedures for your blister packaging line. Objective seal testing maintains compliance and ensures the integrity of the packaging process. VisionScan 3D ensures protection from moisture, air and bacteria and allows investigation of atypical results.

    Reduce production rejects
    Minimise reject blisters and waste disposal created in pharmaceutical production and packaging facilities by carrying out leak testing more frequently. Earlier detection of a leak means line operators can troubleshoot the cause of a leak before large volumes of faulty blisters are produced.

    Applications
  • Benefits

    Non-destructive test generates less waste and bigger product yield

    • The test method is clean and dry, unlike other destructive leak testing methods (eg Methylene Blue Dye Test), and does not destroy test product or packaging.
    • Tested product can be retrieved from faulty packs and repackaged.
    • Packs which pass the leak test can be put back onto the production line

    Tool-less device

    • Can test multiple pack formats as no tooling is required

    Accurate, validated results for each pocket

    • Detects holes down to 5μm*
    • Totally objective results as no operator intervention is required
    • Pass or fail criteria can be set to the same micron level as your existing Blue Dye Test.
    • Result data is stored and can be printed or downloaded to other storage devices for further analysis.

    *Pack and material dependent

    Quicker troubleshooting for line set-up to reduce rejects

    • Fast test cycle means that leak testing can be carried out more frequently.
    • Earlier detection of leaks allows line operators to investigate the cause of the failed seal more quickly, so fewer faulty packs are produced on the line.

    Fast payback by reducing waste

    • Users of the Sepha VisionScan 3D can expect a ROI of less than one year when replacing the methylene blue dye test

    Easy to use

    • No special technical skills required.
    • Touch screen operator interface.
    Benefits
  • Vacuum Deflection

    How does Vacuum Deflection testing work?

    To conduct a vacuum deflection test, a blister pack is placed inside a vacuum test chamber. The surface of the blister pack is scanned by a laser or vision system, to provide data points for subsequent deflection measurement. A vacuum is applied, and the pack surface is scanned a second time. The vacuum level is then reduced, and the pack is scanned once more.

    Deflection refers to the difference in the height of the foil of a cavity under vacuum compared to the first data point when the cavity was not under pressure. A cavity with a large hole will show no difference in the foil, as the hole allows the pressure inside the pocket to equalise to the applied vacuum inhibiting foil movement. If there is no hole present in the cavity, the lidding foil will move, and the second scan will show a large deflection as the cavity expands as a result of the applied vacuum.

    Cavities with small holes will initially expand because of the applied vacuum. The third scan is required to identify small holes. The variation in the average height at full vacuum and reduced vacuum is referred to as collapse. If the collapse is greater than normal, a small hole is present. This occurs as the air slowly escapes through a small defect, allowing the pressure inside the pocket to equalise with the applied vacuum.

    Learn more

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