Linde Introduces New Technology To Test For Leaks In Food Packaging

High-speed, inline leak detection for modified atmosphere packaging

Bridgewater, NJ /PRNewswire/ -- Linde LLC introduces a fast and more reliable process to detect leaks in Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP). The high-speed, inline MAPAX® LD leak-detection system will be introduced to the North American market for the first time at the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta, January 31–February 2, Booth #B5453.

The patented MAPAX LD system is ideal for packaged meat, poultry, seafood and prepared foods packaged with tray sealers or thermoforming machines. It tests packages inline and can achieve 100 percent sampling at speeds up to 120 packages per minute.

High-Accuracy in Real Time

The inline MAPAX leak-detection system offers high accuracy in real-time. It works by adding a small volume of hydrogen as an indicator to the modified atmosphere mixture at the package sealing stage. The MAPAX LD sensor detects for the gas after the sealed packages travel into the leak-detection unit. Linde supplies MAPAX® modified-atmosphere packaging gases including nitrogen (N2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) to the food industry.

"The MAPAX LD system represents the most advanced technology available to ensure the safety of food products while at the same time improving the speed and quality of packaging operations."
-- Erik Fihlman, Program Manager for Prepared Foods, Linde LLC

Inline testing is a major advantage over other leak-detection methods such as needle- or immersion testing, which may rely on statistical sampling but typically check only a single package for each batch or test period. With such offline test systems, if a leak is detected, the entire batch is lost, which can result in excessive waste and downtime.

In contrast, the MAPAX LD system offers non-destructive package testing. Because testing is inline, if a package leak exists due to a pinhole, tear or defect in the seal, a visual alarm signals so issues can be immediately resolved or investigated. A defective item can be removed from the production line with minimal interruption to the process flow. MAPAX LD also identifies faulty settings on a machine if, for example, several leaks are found consecutively.

Linde LLC supports the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) and the advancement of food safety. Linde has a Food Safety Management System in place for all bulk carbon dioxide (CO2) plants and air separation facilities supplying the food & beverage industry in North America. In June 2012, Linde became the first supplier to certify all of its CO2 plants to a benchmarked GFSI scheme, FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification).

Visit the Linde food team at the IPPE Booth #B5453. The Linde food team performs in-plant assessments and works with food processors to develop optimal solutions. For more information visit Linde (www.lindefood.com), or call: 800-755-9277.

About Linde LLC in North America
Linde LLC is a member of The Linde Group. In the 2015 financial year, The Linde Group generated revenue of USD 19.7 bn (EUR 17.944 bn), making it one of the leading gases and engineering companies in the world, with approximately 65,000 employees working in more than 100 countries worldwide. The strategy of The Linde Group is geared towards long-term profitable growth and focuses on the expansion of its international business with forward-looking products and services. Linde acts responsibly towards its shareholders, business partners, employees, society and the environment in every one of its business areas, regions and locations across the globe. The company is committed to technologies and products that unite the goals of customer value and sustainable development.

For more information, visit www.lindeus.com.