Consumer packaging

A customised fixture (PDV17181) holds bottles while the MultiTest 2.5-i fitted with the flip-cap accessory measures the force to open the cap.

The opening and closing torque on lipsticks is tested using a Vortex-i PC-controlled torque testing system. The torque tester is fitted with custom designed adaptors to fit different sizes of lipsticks.  The Vortex-i is driven by Mecmesin's Emperor Torque software, which gives immediate indication of "Pass" or "Fail" for each type and size of lipstick.  Results can be seen in real-time and stored for future use.

Mandrels are used when measuring the opening and closing forces associated with caps and closures on bottles, jars and other containers.  The mandrel grips the closure evenly and uniformly minimising distortion.  When used with Mecmesin's computer controlled Vortex-i motor driven torque measurement stand, readings can be made accurately and repeatably.

A 135 degree peel test is carried out on a sample of medical packaging to ensure maximum seal with minimum peel.  A custom designed vacuum fixture attached to a MultiTest-i PC-controlled force tester holds the sample firmly so that repeatable results are achieved when the lid is peeled off at a constant speed of 500 mm/min.

A 180° peel test of pressure sensitive adhesives is carried out using a FPT-H1 horizontal friction peel tear tester and a 180° peel test fixture kit. This is suitable for testing to a range of peel testing standards including FINAT No 1 and 3, ASTM D3330, Afera 5001, BS EN 1939 and PSTC 101.

Mecmesin's digital torque testers are used to measure the mimimum application torque of Child-resistant closures according to ASTM D3810.  The Tornado is a portable, battery powered hand operated instrument can be used anywhere, while the motorised Vortex-xt torque tester provides a constant test speed for reliable repeatability of testing.

Mecmesin's digital torque testers are used to measure the reverse-ratchet torque performance of child-resistant closures according to ASTM D3472.  The Tornado is a portable, battery powered hand operated instrument, while the motorised Vortex-xt provides a constant test speed for reliable repeatability of testing.

Mecmesin demonstrates an automated bottle closure testing system used to check the performance of bottle capping machines in volume beverage bottle filling plants.  The system can check the correct closure force has been applied by measuring the slip and bridge torque on 18 samples in less than 10 minutes.

A custom designed automatic test system is used to test closures made from natural cork. Up to 200 samples can be loaded into a carousel for unattended operation, testing overnight if necessary, saves time and money. The system determines each type of cork by initially measuring its diameter, then applying the correct compression test.

Top-load tests on PET bottles are carried out on an automated test system performed with a MultiTest-xt force tester and robotic arm.