In accordance with ASTM F2391, we use helium mass spectrometry to measure the package and seal integrity of nonporous packaging such as vials, syringes and cartridges. We can also apply helium mass spectrometry using appropriate test fixtures and techniques to assess flexible packaging.
Helium leak detection testing can accurately assess the performance of an established package and analyze the effect of processing variables, such as capping force or closure materials, on the performance of a package system.
We place helium-filled or flushed samples in a test chamber, and the instrument’s internal pumps create a vacuum. In certain circumstances, we create specialized fixtures to isolate particular package areas of interest. Leaking samples allow helium to escape, which then enters the test system and is detected by an analyzer cell. The stream of helium ions hitting the analyzer cell target is proportional to the partial pressure inside a sample.
We can report results quantitatively (calculated as a leak rate) or qualitatively (pass or fail) if method development is performed.
Contact our analytical testing team at Whitehouse Labs by clicking below