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Medical N95 Protective Mask Construction
Apr 23, 2020 admin no comments in MOCON, Permeation

MOCON Permeation Analysers Used for Testing Nonwoven Materials in Medical Masks and PPE during COVID-19 Pandemic

    • Medical masks usually consist of three to four layers of porous nonwoven materials to provide protection while being easy to breathe through.
    • The key element of the mask is the center micro-porous layer (Melt Blown Polypropylene) that has the electrostatic adsorption/filtration function to trap viruses and other harmful tiny substances.
    • The outer layer has water repellent treatment so that liquid droplets will not penetrate it.
    • The inner layer is made to be comfortable to the skin and provides structural support for the center layer.
    • It is important to have the breathable mask block the liquid droplets while letting moisture vapor easily escape to prevent buildup between the face and mask.
    • The rate at which the moisture can leave the mask is evaluated by moisture/water vapor transmission rate (MVTR or WVTR).

PERMATRAN-W 101K Application to Breathable PPE

    • The PERMATRAN-W 101K instrument is capable of obtaining accurate and repeatable water vapor permeation test results of breathable materials, including critical nonwoven material layers in medical masks, surgical gowns, and other personal protective equipment (PPE).
    • The instrument conforms to the ASTM D6701 standard: Standard Test Method for Determining Water Vapor Transmission Rates (WVTR) through Nonwoven and Plastic Barriers.
    • WVTR rates are important to measure because they govern how much moisture will build up when using PPE.
    • Using the PERMATRAN-W 101K and ASTM D6701 for Quality Control in the manufacturing of nonwovens used for medical masks, gowns, and other PPE, ultimately ensures these medical supplies provide a comfortable and safe barrier.

Global Vision Colour Inspection
Jan 13, 2020 admin no comments in Global Vision, Proof Reading

Colour Inspection

GlobalVision Colour Inspection is the first digital inspection solution for colour management for PDFs and printed components. The tool inspects colours and reports any differences outside a defined colour threshold. Instead of manually checking colours by eye, users can detect and communicate colour differences with colour reports alongside their proofs for approval.

Bringing colour approvals into a digital system means faster colour approvals, more accurate measurements, and proof of recorded locations with colour reports. Further, GlobalVision has partnered with Pantone to deliver colour information in the industry standards companies depend on every day. Any colour inspections will show the next closest pantones for fast colour decision making.

Confirm colour accurately with pinpoint precision and send Colour Inspection reports for approval using GlobalVision. Ensure you’re printing the correct colours with confidence.

Verify Colour-Space Values at Every Point

Find the perfect shade and verify color accuracy anywhere on the actual artwork. Measure individual color space values and inspect the same point on all repeats.

 

Multiple Built-in Pantone Books

Navigate through a huge library of colors using an easy-to-access drop-down menu. Switch seamlessly between different Pantone books to find the right color, as GlobalVision boasts an extensive library of colors ranging from metallics to pastels.

 

LAB, CMYK, and RGB…and Pantone Values

Get the closest matches of any point and see precise LAB, CMYK, and RGB color-space values with a single click. Use them as a simple reference or choose one to replace the selected color in the inspection instead.

 

Customizable Delta-E

Change the tolerance level from point to point to be as strict as you need when detecting differences. With a customizable Delta-E value, Color Inspection flags a point whenever it falls out of that pre-set range, so you know where to focus your attention.

Professional Force/Torque Indicator
Nov 19, 2019 admin no comments in Physical testing
Advanced Force/Torque Indicators

The 7i Professional Force/Torque Indicator is designed to work with a wide range of Mark-10 remote force and torque sensors. With exclusive Plug & TestTM technology, all calibration and configuration data is saved within the sensor’s smart connector, not the indicator, allowing for true interchangeability. In addition, all sensors are fully compatible with other Mark-10 indicators.

The 7i features an industry-leading sampling rate of 14,000 Hz, producing reliable results for extremely quick- action tests. In addition to the 5i indicator’s functions, the 7i features high-speed continuous data capture and storage, with memory for up to 5,000 readings, at an acquisition rate of up to 14,000 Hz. The 7i Professional Force/Torque Indicator also features programmable footswitch sequencing, break detection, and 1st / 2nd peak detection. Coefficient of friction unit of measurement and a user-defined unit of measurement add flexibility for specialized applications. For productivity enhancement, the indicator also features automatic data output, data storage, and zeroing functions upon the completion of break detection,  averaging external trigger, and 1st / 2nd peak detection.

The 7i interfaces with Mark-10 test stands to permit functions such as break testing, dynamic load holding, PC control capability, and more. The included MESURTM Lite data acquisition software tabulates continuous or single point data.  Data saved in the indicator’s memory can also be downloaded in bulk.  One-click export to  Excel easily allows for further data manipulation.

 

Features:

  • Accuracy: ±0.1% of full scale + sensor
  • Sampling Rate: 14,000Hz
  • Power: AC or rechargeable battery
  • Outputs: USB, RS232, Mitutoyo, Analog, General purpose & Set Points
  • Configurable Settings: Digital filters, outputs, automatic shut off, Default settings, Averaging mode, External trigger, Password protection, Keytones, Audio alarms, Backlight, Calibration
  • Includes: Carrying case, USB cable, certificate of conformance
Beta AniScope Anilox, Gravure & Flexo Plate Analyser
Aug 06, 2018 admin no comments in BetaFlex

Anilox inspection has traditionally required expensive, complicated, and delicate equipment, or lacking that, rough estimates with crude methods.  The new Beta AniScope Anilox, Gravure & Flexo Plate Analyser solves these issues in a robust, much more affordable, easy-to-use system with impressive capabilities.

Beta AniScope Anilox, Gravure & Flexo Plate Analyser

The Beta AniScope’s plan-achromatic (flat field) lenses produce superb image quality when combined with the AniScope’s system of optical filters and polarised illumination.

Unparalleled image sharpness and contrast enable the accurate determination and easy diagnosis of anilox conditions; thickened walls, dirty cells, and other common problems.  The included software features on-screen measuring systems for width, length, angle, and diameter.

Fine motion controls in three dimensions give a wider field of view even at high magnification.  Vertical motion on the Z-axis is automatically measured with one-micron precision and recorded directly to the system software.  The Beta AniScope Anilox, Gravure & Flexo Plate Analyser sits securely on rolls as small as 2.5 inches and flat plates as well.

High-quality flexo printing requires consistent performance from all components of the system; ink, substrate, plates, anilox and more.  When colour strength does not meet expectations and impression, viscosity, and the other usual suspects have been ruled out the anilox roll may be the culprit.

 

Specifications:

  • Binocular and digital camera (1.3 MB) with software.
  • Five Plan Achromatic microscope objectives included: 5x, 10x, 20x, 40x, 80x. An optional 4x objective is available for extreme coarse engravings and plates.
  • Factory calibration and automatic objective identification ensure accurate measurements.
  • Highest feature resolution at 80x <350nm.
  • Illumination system features; colour filters, polarising filter, field iris diaphragm, aperture.
  • Optional software and hardware illuminator available for Flexo Mask and Flexographic Plate Halftone Analysis (Dot area, Dot diameter, Screen ruling etc.)
BetaFlex HR (High-Resolution) Flexo Analyser
Jun 11, 2018 admin no comments in BetaFlex
BetaFlex HR (High-Resolution) Flexo Analyser

Micro-Structure patterns have been proven to greatly improve ink transfer and dot fidelity, these patterns and textures are sensitive to variations in mask exposure and plate processing. They benefit from the same process control techniques provided by the BetaFlex Pro but require much higher magnification and resolution as provided by the BetaFlex HR (High-Resolution) Flexo Analyser.

BetaFlex HR (High-Resolution) Flexo Analyser

Operating at 43,000 pixels per inch compared to the 14,000 ppi of the BetaFlex Pro, halftones as coarse as 175 lpi and plate patterns as fine as 1500 lpi are automatically analysed for dot area, diameter, edge factor and more.

Operating in transmission mode only, the Betaflex HR (High-Resolution) Flexo Analyser provides critical insight into the most sophisticated screening techniques available today and is the perfect complement to the BetaFlex Pro which offers 3D Imaging (HD Flexo), 2D transmission, reflection color dot % analysis, as well as many other features.

New statistical functions count and quantify the distribution of cell sizes above and below the user-specified target value.

 

Features:

The physical size of the elements created are typically beyond the capability of the BetaFlex PRO with screen frequencies over 1000 lines per inch (390 l/cm) and features 0.0004 inches (10 microns) or less. Features of these microscopic dimensions need to be measured and evaluated for uniformity, shape and position. The principles of Process Control apply here in the same way as they do in halftone control.

How a Label Error Can Ruin a Great Package Design
May 28, 2018 admin no comments in Global Vision, Proof Reading

While the branding of a label on a package is of high importance for any industry manufacturer, focusing only on the branding design and not taking care of the crucial info can result in small to huge errors which can ruin a great package design. The effects of label errors go beyond label recalls and financial losses. In a complex industry such as pharma and medical devices, it can go as far as the loss of human life. Because unclear or erred medication instructions are a huge risk for patient safety. This is why the US FDA is continually maintaining a high level of regulations when it comes to drug packaging. Patient safety is always the main point of focus.

A company may need to maintain its business, branding and marketing goals; but human life is way more important. So, organisations need to find balance. A way to have their brand stand out, but also to prioritise the safety and usage instructions. These things get tough when translation is involved. Because the entire label needs to be translated into a natural, understandable language. Additionally, product packages being exported to different countries, also need to adhere to the ever-evolving industry regulations worldwide. Another challenge faced by the industry is the use and the amount of available space. A label needs to be small or big enough to fit a container appropriately and to contain all of the information required by a regulatory organization, which often depends on the country a package is being exported to.

 

A clearly defined label design workflow

A great starting point for changing and introducing automation into the packaging and labeling workflow is the FDA Safety Considerations guidelines document. The document contains the suggestions for safety precautions on label design and guidance on what information is regulatory and what is advised. By defining a clear project scope for a label production workflow and creating a checklist approved by all stakeholders, a label production process can run much smoother and stay on track with the milestones and deadlines. It’s important to always keep in mind that manual artwork proofing and inspection takes much more time and is prone to human error. Pharma and Medical Device companies need to stay up to date with the latest automation novelties.

 

It’s also crucial that a clear strategy is defined for introducing the change and automating the packaging and label production workflow in order to speed up the process and reduce label errors. Finally, whether printing is being done in-house or outsourced, the label production stakeholders and the printing stakeholders need to carry out the printing inspection on both ends. They must double check and verify the approved artwork PDF against the Printer Proof, in order to eliminate all label printing errors. GlobalVision is the world leader in the design of innovative proofreading technologies. Their solutions have been integrated into the packaging workflows of leading consumer packaged goods companies, printing firms and over 70% of the top pharmaceutical companies worldwide.

HS-650 Production Heat Sealer
May 21, 2018 admin no comments in Heat Sealers, RDM Instruments
HS-650 Production Heat Sealer

HS-650 Production Heat Sealer

Used for the production of high-quality heat seals in flexible packaging, this instrument produces seals up to 650mm long x 5 to 25mm wide.

Precise control of heat sealing process variables (temperature, pressure, and dwell time). It enables an optimal balance of material specification, packaging machine speed, and seal integrity. Accuracy and repeatability in laboratory heat seal testing is vital.

The HS-650 Production Heat Sealer provides precision digital controls for this purpose in this special version for seals up to 650mm wide.

HS-650 Production Heat Sealer

This heat sealer has been specifically designed to seal wider packages specifically in the medical device industry. The sealing head can be constructed of stainless steel components to meet the requirements of clean room environments, otherwise normally manufactured from aluminium.

This instrument is based on the standard HSE-3 heat sealing machine and is therefore very similar to operate.
The sealing jaw is guided on each side to ensure smooth and straight movement, the lower jaw being silicone rubber is self-adjusting for alignment.

The tray support allows the product to be placed on the machine and then easily presented to the sealing jaws.

 

With features like:

  • Precise pressure calibration of standard surface area jaw face
  • Temperature, pressure and dwell time digital controllers
  • Jaws constructed in aluminum and silicon with precision ground faces
  • Range of jaw face surfaces including Matched Crimp and Teflon Coating
  • Auto cycle feature for greater user convenience with multiple samples

 

Crease & Stiffness Tester
May 14, 2018 admin no comments in IDM Instruments, Physical testing
Crease & Stiffness Tester

Model: C0039 Series

The Crease & Stiffness Tester is used to test carton board, paper, printing and packaging materials. These are important measures to have correct and
uniform. As board stiffness and crease recovery (spring back) is important in the performance of cartons on high-speed packaging machines and when manual folding. The value of crease stiffness is technically important in the folding of carton blanks during their erection and closure.

The crease recovery (spring back) can result in forces, which distort the erected carton or cause stresses to be applied to closures, which reduce their effectiveness. Crease recovery is determined by the decrease in the resistance offered by the creased board after it is folded 90° at the crease measuring the recovery force after 15 secs. Board Stiffness is determined by bending a 50mm length of the board through a 15° angle.

Crease & Stiffness Tester

 

Options:

  • Crease & Stiffness Cutter required (to cut samples)
  • Radius folding jaw
  • 90-degree standard jaw
  • Adjustable bend length
  • Data Acquisition Software

Crease & Stiffness Cutter
Model C0016

IDM’s precision cutter is designed to assist in the easy and accurate cutting of sample specimens for both crease stiffness and bending stiffness testing.

SAMPLES:

  • Crease stiffness testing 38 x 36mm
  • Board samples 70 x 38mm

 

STRATOS O2/CO2
Apr 16, 2018 admin no comments in O2/CO2 Analysers
STRATOS O2/CO2

The STRATOS O2/CO2 is a bench-mounted gas analyser with a blocked circuit detector. Equipped with a large touchscreen, its aesthetic appeal and the simplicity of its user interface are huge benefits for users. This measurement device has a resolution of 0.01% for O2, which is a highly competitive level of performance. The STRATOS O2/CO2 has everything required for complete traceability. This ABISS appliance is reliable, durable and highly versatile for inspecting the quality of your modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) or other inerting.

Advantages:

  • Resolution O2: 0.01%
  • Intuitive technologySTRATOS O2/CO2
  • Blocked circuit detection
  • Fully dematerialised traceability thanks to a universal spreadsheet
  • 7 days a week remote maintenance
  • Remote connection
  • Automatic measurement triggering

 

Expert advice:

  • Air adjustment requires the full attention and skill of a supervisor, given the various environmental variables.
  • In the interest of protecting your device, we would advise you to regularly replace the filters in order to avoid the product flowing back into the device.
  • The flow control lets you ensure that there are no blockages with the filter of the needle, ensuring accurate measurement.
  • We would recommend optimising the measurement speed depending on the target you wish to reach.
  • We would advise you to regularly save the data you have collected and to secure any power supplies.
  • Safety: for user protection, we would advise using the sheath incorporated into the appliance.
Hach BioTector B7000i Dairy TOC Analyser
Apr 04, 2018 admin no comments in BioTector, TOC Analysers
Hach BioTector B7000i Dairy TOC Analyser

The Hach BioTector B7000i Dairy TOC Analyser is the most innovative, maintenance-free TOC analyser on the market, designed specifically to detect product loss, decrease and conserve water usage and improve production processes.

Industry studies show that lost product can be reduced by over 15% in Dairy Processing Plants by using accurate, reliable and continuous TOC measurement. Further savings of up to 40% can be made in the operating cost of the treatment plant by reducing energy and water consumption with the Hach BioTector B7000i Dairy TOC Analyser.

Reliable measurements, every time

With a patented Two Stage Advanced Oxidation Technology system, a sample injection unit and a self-cleaning sample reactor, as well as tubing designed specifically for dairy applications, the B7000i Dairy analyser provides you with
maximum reliability and uptime so you will be certain to get the measurements you need.

Hach BioTector B7000i Dairy TOC Analyser

Minimum maintenance, even in the harshest conditions

The Hach BioTector B7000i Dairy TOC Analyser comes with self-cleaning technology which limits necessary maintenance to only twice a year, with no calibration requirements between services. Even in the harsh dairy environment, it will handle samples with soft particles up to 2 mm in diameter, including samples with fat, oil, greases, sludge and salts.

One instrument for multiple streams

A single B7000i Dairy TOC analyser gives you the ability to monitor up to six streams, eliminating the need for six separate analysers.