Vacuum Degassing Chamber, Mumbai, India

How Does a Vacuum Leak Tester for PET Bottles Work?

The vacuum leak tester for PET bottles is a highly efficient and essential instrument for manufacturers in the PET bottle industry. This device ensures the leak integrity of PET bottles by detecting any vacuum leaks that might compromise the packaging’s quality. Burhani Engineering Technology offers advanced vacuum leak testing equipment suitable for various applications, including PET bottle leak testing. Here's a detailed explanation of how it works, along with the testing standards it complies with.

The ASTM D4991 and ASTM D5094 Vacuum Leak Test for Flexible Packaging is manufactured and exported by Burhani Engineering Technology. This test involves using a Leak Test Chamber specifically designed by Burhani Engineering Technology to evaluate flexible packages for leaks, following the stringent guidelines of ASTM D4991 and ASTM D5094 international standards.

The ASTM D5094 Vacuum Leak Test for Bottles

The ASTM D5094 Vacuum Leak Test for Bottles, Containers, and Caps is a standard procedure for testing leaks in non-carbonated beverages and similar liquids, ensuring compliance with international standards. Burhani Engineering Technology manufactures this Bottle Leak Test Chamber for detecting leaks based on the ASTM D5094 method, commonly used in the beverage industry.

The equipment required for this test includes various test bottles and a vacuum leak test chamber that adheres to ASTM D5094 specifications. Two testing methods are employed during the procedure.

In Method 1, the sample bottle is filled to one-third of its capacity, and a vacuum level of minus 340 millibar (-10 InHg) is applied for 10 minutes. The bottle is placed upside down, and the vacuum is started. The detection of bubbles indicates a potential leak, often due to a seal failure or a defect in the bottle itself.

In Method 2 involves filling the bottle or container, leaving 5 ml of air volume. The bottle is positioned horizontally, ensuring the liquid is in contact with the cap, and a vacuum of minus 750 millibar (-22 InHg) is applied for 15 to 60 minutes. The presence of bubbles suggests a gas leak, possibly caused by a faulty seal or defect in the bottle.

Leak detection is essential for maintaining product safety, quality, and shelf life, particularly in industries such as food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. If a leak is detected, the following steps can be taken: checking the plastic quality, adjusting temperature, performing maintenance on the sealing jaws, and cleaning the jaws for dust particles.

Ensuring leak-free packaging is crucial for preventing contamination, spoilage, or harmful bacterial exposure, especially in sensitive industries like food and pharmaceuticals

Leak Test of Rigid Bottles Using The ASTM D4991

The ASTM D4991 Vacuum Leak Test for Rigid Bottles, Containers, and Caps is a standardized method for detecting leaks in rigid containers used in various industries. Burhani Engineering Technology manufactures this ASTM D4991 Bottle Leak Chamber, specifically designed for conducting vacuum bubble leak tests in compliance with international ASTM D4991 standards. This method is commonly used for testing rigid bottles in industries such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, personal care, beauty, sports, fitness, food and beverages, and household items.

The required equipment for this test includes various test bottles and a vacuum leak test chamber that meets ASTM D4991 standards. According to the guidelines, 50% ethylene glycol is mixed with water to ensure accuracy in test results.

Before the test, a pre-test vacuum of -950 millibar is created and maintained for 10 minutes. During the test, the bottle is placed inside the vacuum chamber, the lid is closed, and a vacuum of -950 millibar is applied. The testing duration ranges from 10 to 30 minutes to observe and detect any possible leaks in the rigid containers.

Vacuum Leak Detection System: Key Features and Operation

The vacuum leak detection systemfor PET bottles is designed for easy and reliable leak testing. The system consists of a clear acrylic vacuum chamber, Large Touch Screen PLC based Controller with a Digital Solenoid control valves, and gauge. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

1.Preparation: The PET bottles to be tested are placed inside the vacuum leak tester chamber. The vacuum chamber is made of durable polished transparent PMMA, allowing the operator to clearly see the bottle being tested. The chamber is sturdy and resistant to corrosion.

2.Vacuum Activation: Once the PET bottle is inside the chamber, the lid is sealed, and a vacuum is applied by engaging the control valve. This action removes air from inside the chamber, creating a pressure differential between the inside of the bottle and the external environment.

3.Test Method Selection: Depending on the company’s testing standards, the user can select the appropriate leak detection method. The machine supports various testing methods, including the vacuum decay test, which is used to detect leaks in packaging.

4.Digital Monitoring and Results: The vacuum leak tester is equipped with digital controls that allow users to monitor the vacuum pressure, the timer, and the test results. The machine also features a microprocessor-based timer to ensure accurate and repeatable testing.

5.Test Completion: After the vacuum is applied for the required time, results are displayed digitally. The user can view the test outcome on the digital display. Any leaks present will cause a drop in vacuum pressure, which is easily detected using the system.

6.Post-Test Actions: Once the test is completed, the bottle is removed from the chamber. The vacuum leak tester gives manufacturers accurate results, allowing them to identify defective bottles and eliminate them from production to ensure the delivery of leak-resistant products.

Specifications and Features of the Burhani Vacuum Leak Tester

Display: Digital display for easy monitoring of test results and settings.
Vacuum Range: Adjustable up to – 700 Millibar or -950 mmHg.
Chamber: Made from polished transparent PMMA, making it highly durable.
Accuracy: ± 0.5% of the measured value, ensuring precise test results.
Timer: Digital preset timer, adjustable up to 999 seconds with the ability to change units to hours, minutes, and seconds.
Materials: Constructed using mild steel or stainless steel for robustness and longevity.
Power: Operates on 220V, single-phase, 50 Hz power.
Calibration: Built-in calibration facility to ensure accurate performance.
Finish: Powder-coated in a Havel Gray & Blue combination with a corrosion-resistant chrome/zinc plating.

Testing Standards (Methods) Compliance

ASTM D 4991-07(2015): Destructive leak integrity test by vacuum method for empty rigid containers. Leaks are detected under differential pressure conditions.
ASTM F 2338-09(2013): Non-destructive detection of leaks in packages by vacuum decay method.
ASTM D6653: Test methods for determining the effects of high altitude on packaging systems by vacuum method.
ASTM D5094: Test methods for gross leakage of liquids from containers with threaded or lug-style closures for rigid and semi-rigid containers.
ASTM D3078: Test method for determining leaks in flexible packaging by bubble emission.

Benefits of Using a Vacuum Leak Tester for PET Bottles

Accurate Leak Detection: High-accuracy results for detecting leaks in PET bottles, ensuring packaging integrity.
Quick Testing: Rapid test results, helping manufacturers speed up their production processes while maintaining high-quality standards.
Improved Product Quality: Detecting and eliminating faulty PET bottles minimizes product rejection rates due to poor packaging quality.
Compliance with International Standards: Complies with key ASTM standards, ensuring manufacturers meet industry-specific regulations.
Durability and Longevity: Powder-coated finish and corrosion-resistant components ensure the vacuum leak tester is built to last, even in demanding environments.
User-Friendly Interface: Digital controls make it easy to operate and monitor the test process, improving efficiency and reducing human error.

Conclusion

The Burhani vacuum leak tester for PET bottles is a top-quality lab testing instrument that ensures leak integrity in PET bottles. With its advanced features, such as digital monitoring, microprocessor-based timer, and compliance with international testing standards, it provides manufacturers with accurate, repeatable, and efficient leak testing. This makes it an invaluable tool for PET bottle manufacturers looking to improve their product quality, reduce rejection rates, and meet regulatory requirements. Whether you need to perform a vacuum decay leak test or a bubble leak test, the Burhani vacuum leak tester offers a reliable and efficient solution for your leak detection needs.