WITT Introduces Inline MAP Leak Detection System
WITT Gas Controls has introduced the LEAK-MASTER ONE, an inline system designed to detect micro-leaks of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) at production-line speeds.
According to WITT Gas Controls, the system combines high-sensitivity leak detection with individual package testing and traceability. The LEAK-MASTER ONE has a detection threshold of approximately 10 micrometers and can inspect up to 120 packages per minute.
Inline Leak Detection for Individual MAP Packages
Integrated directly into MAP packaging lines, the LEAK-MASTER ONE checks packages individually for leaks using a vacuum testing method with infrared sensors. The system was designed to identify micro-leaks that can gradually compromise the protective atmosphere inside a package and lead to subsequent quality issues.
Twelve mini vacuum chambers operate in parallel and are automatically loaded using pick-and-place robotics. This configuration enables the system to test up to 120 individual packages per minute while maintaining a detection threshold of approximately 10 micrometers, according to WITT Gas Controls.
The company said the system was developed to address a trade-off in inline leak testing between slower, highly sensitive methods and faster methods with lower sensitivity.
Package-Level Results Enable Targeted Removal
The LEAK-MASTER ONE identifies and documents leaks on an individual-package basis, enabling affected packages to be removed from the production line without unnecessarily rejecting unaffected products.
According to WITT Gas Controls, individual package testing can reduce follow-up inspections and unnecessary product waste while supporting production efficiency and quality assurance requirements.
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Applications for Modified Atmosphere Packaging
The LEAK-MASTER ONE is suitable for most MAP products containing at least 10 percent CO₂, excluding applications with oxygen concentrations greater than 20.9 percent.
Potential applications include meat and cheese products, convenience foods, fresh ready meals, baked goods, and other foods packaged under modified atmospheres.
WITT Gas: www.wittgas.com
