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Medical devices are available in a variety of forms with complex geometric attributes such as valves, tubes and others that can complicate the medical device testing process. Hence, medical device leak testing equipments are expected to provide high levels of sealing effectiveness and test result sensitivity to narrow down the complexities.

Medical Device Package testing using Seal Scan technology

Seal-Scan® is a deterministic, quantitative, high-resolution method based on is an Airborne Ultrasonic Technology (ABUS). It is highly effective in non-destructively inspecting and analyzing pouch seals for defects and seal integrity for consistency. Seal-Scan systems utilize the ASTM Test Method F3004-13, which is a non-destructive test method for evaluating seal quality and integrity using Airborne Ultrasound technology. The test procedure is simple, quick and requires no sample preparation. Additionally, Seal-Scan® provides advanced digital imaging software tools for process control which offers in-depth seal quality analysis.

Seal-Scan features two scan modes:

• Linear Scan (L-Scan) to simulate online defect detection (line graph)
• C-Scan for detailed seal analysis, producing pixel by pixel evaluation of seal (Opto-Acoustic image)

Technology Overview

The test beings by scanning the pouch seal or package material between two focused ultrasonic sensors. Ultrasonic waves propagate through single or multiple layers of bonded materials. As the ultrasonic waves propagate through different mediums, it causes reflections of sound waves, which reduces/eliminates signal strength. The level of signal passing through the seal is a function of the quality of the seal. Various types of defects; leaking and non-leaking, process-related and random are detectable.

Seal scan has two scan modes (L-Scan and C-Scan) that is capable of producing Opto-Acoustic images as well as detailed statistical analysis. An L-Scan is a single linear scan along the X-axis of the seal that provides a line graph of seal integrity and simulates online inspection. C-Scan produces multiple scans (along X and Y-axis of seal area) that provide a high-resolution ultrasonic image of the seal structure. This technology can be integrated into a pouch production line via the Seal-Sensor for 100% fully automated on-line seal defect detection.

Benefits of Seal Scan Technology

• 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 recognized standard for seal quality inspection.