GEA LeakCheck measurement system

The GEA LeakCheck measurement system is designed to check seal and package integrity on all forms of modified atmosphere packs (MAP) contactless.

The system uses an inline process on the GEA thermoformer to test integrity on each individual package. The test procedure comprises three steps. First, the residual oxygen content in each package is measured with a fluorescent sensor spot printed on the inside of the top film. Optical sensors mounted on the thermoformer project light onto the sensor spot, gauging the wavelength of the light emitted by the dye to accurately determine the oxygen content. This step alone is said to significantly reduce the risk of defective packaging with excessively high residual oxygen levels. Next, packages are subjected to overpressure and underpressure in a stress unit before a second contactless measurement is taken. If the new result differs from the first, the package seal is broken. Using the GEA CombiPick, for instance, the leaky package is automatically detected and accurately removed on exiting the packaging machine. This method ensures that even the smallest leaks are detected.

With the help of the system, two key factors for ensuring food safety — residual oxygen content and seal integrity — can be continuously recorded and monitored on an end-to-end basis. Since the measuring techniques are non-invasive, neither the packaging material nor the contents are wasted. Besides efficiency and sustainability, the upshot is that practically no defective packaging reaches the market. Both systems are offered as optional extras with GEA’s PowerPak or PowerPak PLUS thermoformers.