Package Seal Inspection

Primary packaging such as sachet, pouches, stick packs, and cans have unique properties and testing requirements. Every packaging material needs an ideal inspection device or system for accurate inspection results. In modern production environments where large volumes of products are produced, the speed of inspection is a significant factor.

Conventional package seal inspection systems especially struggle to keep up with fast-paced lines. Employing inadequate packaging inspection equipment can lead to delays in production runs and unnecessary downtime. Also, certain defects can be inconspicuous even to these inspection systems. Small damages to package seals, like subtle tears, pinholes, tiny tears, and minuscule foreign particles, can be difficult to detect.

Other factors, such as overwhelming or underwhelming environmental lighting and ever-changing regulatory requirements, can also pose serious challenges for manufacturers in their efforts to achieve accurate inspections for package seals.

Using the right packaging inspection products will save line operators and managers the stress associated with utilizing ineffective inspection solutions. Depending on factors such as production line setup and packaging materials used, some inspection systems are better suited for sealing inspections than others.

KEYENCE offers different inspection and measurement sensors, such as the 2D/3D laser profiler, suitable for different packaging and seals. Our laser profiler inspection device can measure three-dimensional data, capturing precise surface details, including subtle defects and dimensional variations. It can detect missing, incomplete, and damaged seals. Surface defects on seals, such as dents, scratches, and foreign objects, can also be identified thanks to the advanced imaging systems.

Inspection equipment should be regularly and adequately calibrated, especially during product changeovers. It might be a no-brainer to prep an inspection device for an initial production run, but it’s easy to rush through readjusting settings for a different product batch during tight deadlines.

In addition, inspection personnel should be trained on adequate equipment configuration and calibration to ensure the accuracy and reliability of inspection results. Following the best inspection practices helps with error-free inspection efforts.

These solutions can inspect food and drink packages at high speeds. Speedy inspections increase efficiency and reduce labor costs.

Automated packaging systems provide enhanced inspection results because their defect detection capabilities require less human intervention. Automated inspection tools work on a set of programmed rules and instructions and are not susceptible to fatigue faced by human inspectors after prolonged attention.

Self-operating inspection products are also able to collect data on why certain products fail inspection. Data collected helps with analysis and informs future inspection and production efforts.

With automated inspection devices, food and drink manufacturers comply with compliance regulations and deliver safe foods into the hands of consumers.