Pouch Seal Integrity Testing
The Sepha Multi-Q with Flexible Membrane is a non-destructive pouch seal integrity testing solution. It is a tool-less machine that uses an innovative hybrid membrane in combination with vacuum decay to detect leaks, weak seals and micron defects as low as 5µm* in flexible and semi-flexible packaging.
Typical applications include non-porous pouches, sachets, bags and stick packs that contain powder or solid components.
The test method utilises the PDA approved ASTM F2338-24 standard test method that prefers non-destructive leak test methods. The system can also form part of 21 CFR Part 11 compliance. The standard flexible membrane has a tests area of 276 x 177mm but custom sizes are available on request. The main benefit is that no further tooling is required for different size packages as the membrane will adjust to the pack that is being tested, in line with the appropriate test method. Multiple packs of the same package can be tested at the same time.
The Multi-Q with flexible membrane is a quick and deterministic pouch seal integrity testing method that give a pass or fail result within as little as 15 seconds.
* Pack and content dependent
-
Features
- Non-destructive, tool-less leak detection device designed for flexible or semi-flexible packaging.
- Using hybrid membrane technology, the flexible head utilizes the ASTM F2338-24 test method to perform the leak test.
- Can detect defect types including channel leaks, weak seals, and pin holes down to 5µm (pack and content dependent).
- Test area: 276 x 177mm (custom sizes available on request).
- Can test packages that contain tablets/capsules/devices/powders.
- Ideal for testing pouches, sachets, and bags.
- 21 CFR Part 11 compatible
-
Technical Spec
Test type
Flexible membraneContainer Type
Flexible/ Semi- Flexible packs/ pouches/sachetsContainer Content
Dry powder, capsules, solid tablets & devicesMeasurement Range (Dependent on container type and content)
As low as 5μmOperation
Flexible membraneASTM Standard Test Method
F2338-24User HMI
10.1” PCAP touchscreenConnectivity
Active Directory available (via .NET or LDAP), network printing, central network storage, MESConnect / OPC ConnectivityUtilities
Electrical 24V 5A; Air Supply: Min. 200L/min at 0.6Mpa [ISO8573-1:2010 Class 2] or vacuum pumpFeatures
Flexible reporting available on request, 3 x USB, ethernet port, external calibrated leak portWarranty
Supplied with a 12-month warranty. (Service Level Agreements and/or extended warranties are available for additional support). -
Vacuum Decay
How does vacuum decay testing work?
To conduct a vacuum decay test, the flexible packaging is placed in the flexible membrane which is evacuated to a predetermined level of vacuum. After reaching the pre-set vacuum, a sensor measures the vacuum level over a predetermined time.
If the integrity of the flexible packaging under test has been compromised (it has a leak), there will be a rise in pressure measured inside the flexible membrane. This will result in a) a gross leak, if the vacuum doesn’t reach the pre-set vacuum level; b) a medium leak, if the vacuum level drops below a pre-set vacuum level during the test or c) a decay or micron leak, if the vacuum level exceeds the decay limit during the test time.
Learn more
