Seal Strength Integrity Testing: What Is It?
Testing for seal strength determines how strong seals are in flexible materials. The seals between flexible and rigid materials can also be tested using this method. As a result, the materials are properly bonded, maintaining the integrity of the package.
We understand the significance of seal strength package testing because our lab is ISTA and ISO 17025 certified. It can be challenging to comply with the seal integrity regulatory compliance standards. We are aware of the difficulties and help businesses through them.
Are you prepared to begin? To get testing services that are tailored to your particular needs, get a quote. To learn more about our capabilities for testing seal strength, get in touch with us.
How Critical Is Seal Strength Integrity Testing?
Testing for seal strength compliance is important for the integrity of packages as well as the opening force of flexible materials. Seal testing can gauge a manufacturer’s capacity to provide reliable seals.
The packaging of medical devices frequently uses tests to determine the strength of the seals. Packaging for medical devices must have the ability to maintain sterilization. A sterility breach frequently leads to product returns, expensive replacements, and diminished customer confidence. Medical gadgets may occasionally need a packing system that will keep its integrity when subjected to harsh environmental conditions.
Methods for Seal Strength Compliance Testing
For all of your seal strength compliance test requirements, Keystone Compliance suggests testing ASTM F88, Seal Strength Testing of Pouches, and Flexible Materials.
The measurement of seal strength in flexible barrier materials is covered by ASTM F88. Then, a sample is selected to adequately represent the number of packaging units. The samples are then brought to 23 °C and 50% relative humidity. The machines being tested might go through a 40-hour conditioning period.
The tensile machine is calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions after conditioning. Three different treatments are available in total.
Method A
During testing, the seal is left unsupported and each tail of the specimen is held in opposing grips.
Method B
The specimen’s tails are each held in opposing grips, and the seal is kept supported by the hand at a 90-degree angle to the tails.
Method C
The stiff alignment plate is held in one hand while the least flexible tail is flat-supported against it. The tail is folded 180 degrees over the seal and held in the opposing grip the more flexible it is.
A device for recording the tensile load and degree of grip separation is included in a tensile testing equipment that performs seal strength tests. Flexible materials are defined as having the thickness and flexural strength to allow a turn back at a suitable 180 degrees.
Furthermore necessary to take into account is the maximum seal force. The typical force required to open a seal may be helpful for various applications. A failure may be shown by the typical amount of force needed to separate a test strip of material with a seal.
Finally, a test report including the following details is written.
The list that follows is not meant to be exhaustive.
- Identification of the substance under test
- Utilized tools and test methodology
- Conditions at the time of the test Grip separation rate
- Number of specimens examined for initial grip separation distance
- Everything relevant that might have an impact on test results
