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Chevron seals are a type of sealing mechanism used in various packaging applications, known for their distinctive V-shaped or chevron pattern. These seals are often employed in flexible packaging materials like pouches, bags, and sachets. The design of chevron seals allows them to maintain strength and flexibility, even when subjected to stress, and they are widely used in applications that require reliable containment of the product. Traditional testing methods often involve destructive processes or are limited in their ability to detect certain seal defects. However, the move toward non-destructive testing techniques, such as Seal-Scan® airborne ultrasound technology, is transforming the way manufacturers approach seal inspection.

The Need for Precision in Chevron Seal Inspections

Chevron seals are widely used in applications where maintaining airtightness, sterile barrier protection and preventing contamination are priorities, such as in medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Precision in inspecting these seals ensures they function as intended, avoiding issues like leaks or compromised integrity that can lead to product failures or safety concerns. Advanced inspection techniques, such as non-destructive testing and high-resolution imaging, are effective for identifying even the smallest imperfections that might otherwise go unnoticed. Automated systems enhance accuracy and consistency, reducing the likelihood of human error and improving efficiency in quality assurance processes. Ensuring that chevron seals meet stringent standards also supports compliance with industry regulations, safeguarding consumer trust and preventing costly recalls. As packaging and sealing technologies evolve, maintaining precise inspection practices ensures reliable performance, upholds product quality, and aligns with the growing demands for safety and accountability in regulated industries.

Seal Integrity Testing Using Seal Scan® Technology

Ensuring the quality of chevron seals is critical to maintaining the performance and reliability of sealed products. Seal-Scan® systems offer a non-destructive and highly precise solution for assessing seal quality. By leveraging Airborne Ultrasound Technology, these systems detect and analyze defects in pouch seals with exceptional accuracy. This deterministic, quantitative, and high-resolution approach to package integrity testing ensures consistent seal quality by identifying defects and verifying seal integrity.

The technology operates by scanning pouch seals or packaging materials using two focused ultrasonic sensors. As ultrasonic waves pass through single or multi-layered bonded materials, variations in the medium reflect the sound waves, reducing signal strength. The amount of signal transmitted through the seal correlates directly to its quality. Seal-Scan® detects a wide range of defects, including both leaking and non-leaking issues, as well as process-related and random defects. It generates Opto-Acoustic images and detailed statistical analysis using L-Scan and C-Scan modes. L-Scan generates a line graph of seal integrity along the X-axis, simulating online inspection, while C-Scan creates high-resolution ultrasonic images by scanning along both the X and Y axes of the seal area. The technology can be seamlessly integrated into production lines using the Seal-Sensor for 100% on-line defect detection.

Seal Scan Technology Benefits

• Deterministic inspection method producing quantitative results.
• Works for any material and combinations, regardless of color, transparency, print, surface finish and porosity.
• Produces high resolution Opto-Acoustic image of seal.
• Characterizes overall quality and uniformity of the seal.
• ASTM Test Method F3004 and FDA standard for seal quality inspection.

The shift toward non-destructive testing techniques in chevron seal quality control marks a significant advancement in packaging inspection. By adopting methods like Seal-Scan® technology, manufacturers can ensure more accurate and reliable assessments of seal integrity without compromising the packaging. This approach helps streamline production processes, reduce waste, and maintain high-quality standards across industries. As the demand for efficient and precise quality control grows, non-destructive testing will continue to play an increasing role in improving packaging reliability and product safety. By embracing these innovative solutions, manufacturers are better equipped to meet the challenges of modern packaging requirements.