Leak detection is a critical aspect of quality assurance in the packaging industry. Packages need to be airtight and secure to protect their contents from contamination, moisture, or gas exchange that could compromise product quality. Whether it’s food, pharmaceuticals, electronics, or industrial goods, leak testing ensures the safety, integrity, and longevity of the product.

But what tools are used to check for leaks in packages? This article explores the most common methods and instruments used for package leak testing, along with their applications.

Common Tools for Package Leak Detection

Several tools and techniques are employed to check for leaks in packaging. These vary depending on the material, package type, and sensitivity requirements. Below are the most widely used tools:

1. Bubble Emission Leak Testers

Bubble Emission Leak Testers are among the simplest and most cost-effective tools for detecting leaks. They use the principle of submerging a package in water and applying pressure or vacuum to reveal leaks via bubble formation.

Applications:

• Suitable for flexible packaging, pouches, and small rigid containers.
• Commonly used for quick, visual detection of large leaks.

Advantages:

• Simple and easy to use.
• Provides a clear, visual indication of leaks.

2. Vacuum Decay Leak Testers

Vacuum Decay Leak Testers detect leaks by measuring the pressure changes within a sealed package under a vacuum. This non-destructive method ensures the package’s integrity without damaging the sample.

Applications:

• Ideal for pharmaceutical vials, ampoules, and medical device packaging.
• Suitable for high-precision testing.

Advantages:

• Non-destructive.
• High sensitivity for small leaks

3. Differential Pressure Leak Testers

Differential Pressure Leak Testers measure the pressure difference between a sealed package and a reference chamber. If a package has a leak, the pressure will equalize over time, indicating a failure.

Applications:

• Widely used for bottles, cans, and rigid containers.
• Suitable for testing gas-tight seals.

Advantages:

• High sensitivity.
• Fast and reliable.

Labthink Leak Testers

Labthink offers a range of advanced leak testers for the packaging industry. These devices combine cutting-edge technology with user-friendly interfaces to ensure precise and efficient testing.

Key Products:

• Labthink C660B Vacuum Leak Tester: Ideal for flexible packaging, this device uses a vacuum-based method to detect leaks in pouches, bags, and other materials.
• Labthink C660M Leak and Seal Strength Tester: This instrument not only detects leaks in packaging but also evaluates the strength of seals, ensuring the package can withstand pressure variations during storage and transportation.
• Labthink C690H Nondestructive Package Leak Detector: container closure integrity testing equipment (CCIT) according to ASTM F2338 for batch sealing leak detection of vials, ampoule, cartridge bottles, infusion bottles, prefilled syringes and other pharmaceutical packaging.

Advantages:

• Multi-functional and reliable.
• Compliance with international testing standards.