Flexible Package Integrity Testing
A package made of non-rigid materials is referred to as flexible. These containers are typically composed of paper, foil, or plastic to form pliable pouches or bags. The term “peel pouch” also applies to flexible packaging.
Flexible packaging materials are assessed using simulated environmental threats in flexible package integrity testing. Flexible peel pouches should be put through a variety of tests, which may be found and detailed below in the section on equipment and capabilities of this page. This test type is not constrained to one standard.
Testing for flexible package compliance also aids in identifying dangerous substances that could seep within the flexible packaging through leaks. The seals between package components made of the same or different materials are where these leaks are commonly discovered.
Infinita Lab is an ISTA and ISO 17025-certified lab and is aware of the value of flexible package integrity testing. It can be challenging to adhere to the flexible peel pouch criteria. We are aware of the difficulties and help businesses through them. Infinita Lab assures you that all of your demands will be satisfied. Our thorough test findings are sent out right away.
To learn more about regulatory peel pouch compliance testing, get in touch with us.
What Justifies Flexible Compliance Testing?
Testing for flexible package compliance is used to assess a flexible package in terms of several testing techniques. To analyze the integrity and sterilization of a flexible packaging system, this test type especially tests bubble emission, seal strength, burst strength, etc.
Industries like the food and beverage, personal care, medical device, and pharmaceutical sectors benefit greatly from peel pouches. Single-use pharmaceuticals, candy packets with a zipper, and domestic cleaning supplies are examples of products that may come in flexible packaging in these sectors. The following are some advantages of flexible packaging:
- lower costs for packing and materials
- design of packages that can be changed
- convenient package
- Lightweight materials for simple transportation
- extended shelf life
On the other side, a product that is inadequately packaged might be costly, result in a drop in sales, damage consumer loyalty, and be constantly interrupted and delayed.
Flexible pouches used to transport pharmaceuticals and medical equipment need to maintain their sterility the entire time they are being transported. Unintentionally bursting or opening a package can result in damage to the product as well as product loss.
With the right testing and certification, packing costs can be significantly decreased or eliminated, regardless of the hazard.
Flexible Package Testing Tools and Capabilities from the Infinita Lab
Infinita Lab offers professional package integrity testing services using a variety of pressure delivery systems, vacuum chambers, and open/closed package test fixtures. Our numerous thermal chambers range in size from small reach-in to huge walk-in chambers up to 1,300 cu. Ft., and they can hold machinery and heavy automobiles.
To assure you that all of your requirements for package integrity are covered under one roof, Infinita Lab also has a variety of shakers and dynamic shock machines.
The two flexible packaging test standards that we use the most are listed below.
Leaks in Medical Packaging: ASTM F1929
Materials and methods that identify and locate leak channels larger than 50 microns are evaluated by ASTM F1929. Between a transparent substance and a porous sheet material, these channels are created. Last but not least, ASTM F1929 is not quantitative, so results from these tests cannot be used to estimate the amount of a leak. These tests are typically utilized on a pass/fail basis.
There are two methods for performing ASTM F1929. The injection method is method A. To do this, a dye penetrant is injected into the package, covering the longest edge. The edge drip approach is procedure B. The length of the chosen container is long enough to fit the longest sealed edge. The container’s bottom is then covered with dye by pouring it inside.
Video 01: Package Integrity Testing | Flexible Packaging | VeriPac Flex Series
