Package Leak Testing

Oxipack leak testers check sealed packaging for leaks without destroying the pack. They are based on vacuum decay, a widely used, highly sensitive and non-destructive method for detecting leaks in sealed packaging and recognised in standards such as ASTM F2338.

How vacuum decay works

1. Preparation – the sealed pack is placed in a test chamber and the chamber is closed.
2. Vacuum application – a vacuum is drawn in the chamber, lowering the pressure around the pack.
3. Monitoring – the chamber pressure is monitored over a set time. If the pack leaks, gas escapes from it and the pressure in the chamber rises.
4. Analysis – the system evaluates the pressure change and decides whether the pack is tight or leaking.

Benefits

• Non-destructive – neither pack nor product is damaged, so packs can be retested or returned to production.
• Efficient – fast, automated cycles suited to large-scale production.
• High sensitivity – detects very small leaks that other methods can miss.
• Compliance – aligned with recognised standards such as ASTM F2338; results are quantitative and operator-independent.

Vacuum decay is suitable for most foods, pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Good practice includes proper verification and validation of the system, regular inspection of the test chamber and seals, test parameters (vacuum level, test time) set for each pack type, and complete documentation for audits.

The range covers stand-alone testers for flexible, rigid, bottle, can and pharmaceutical packaging, in-line systems and original spare parts.