Headspace Gas Analyser

The shelf life of products is largely influenced by water vapor and oxygen. Study shows that if the headspace of the package is controlled, the shelf life can be improved and would help ensure the quality of the product in storage. In principle, the gas composition inside the package is difficult to change or control because product filling is completed until the package is unlocked.

Packaging materials having barrier property can only prevent the permeation of gas from the package, but the residual oxygen and other kind of gases would still be contained in the package. As a result, CAP and MAP packages are commonly used to reduce the content of certain gases. Nitrogen and carbon dioxide are often used in package, but longer storage periods can change the gas composition gradually. Therefore, it becomes rather complicated to assess the quality of product, gauge the shelf life, and design an appropriate package.

However, this issue can be overcome with headspace gas analysis, which provides a means to analyze the gas composition contained at the top of the package, inspect the package quality, and verify the product’s shelf life. Carbon dioxide and oxygen gases are the key target of headspace gas analysis. A critical gas composition in MAP and CAP packages, carbon dioxide gas directly regulates the flavor and quality of products. In pharmaceuticals, carbon dioxide content is very important because some medicines can react with this gas and become useless.

Oxygen gas not only destroys the food’s nutrients, but also oxidizes the oil in food products. This deteriorates the food and makes it rancid or toxic. Moreover, oxygen is required for bacterial reproduction, which is the main cause of food deterioration.

To solve the head space gas analysis problem, Systech Illinois have come up with most advanced gas analysers with IR and non depleting Zirconia sensors. Models available are:

• 6000 Series - The Gaspace 6000 headspace analyzers offer high levels of performance technology and operator ease to fulfill the latest industry demands for accuracy and reliability. These highly advanced instruments are equipped with integral sampling systems, unique, miniature, long-life, zirconia and infrared sensors to deliver the most accurate and repeatable performance possible. The Systech 6000 range offers three different models to accommodate your oxygen and carbon dioxide measurements.
  1. GS 6500 - measures oxygen levels only using the non depleting Zirconia sensor.
  2. GS 6600 – measures both oxygen and carbon dioxide levels using the non depleting Zirconia sensor and solid state Infrared sensor.
  3. GS 6700 - measures carbon dioxide levels using the solid state Infrared sensor.

  Specifications

  • Industry : : Food and Pharmaceuticals
  • Gas : Oxygen, Carbon Dioxide
  • Application : Gas Flushing of Food, Headspace Analysis
  • Oxygen range : Autoranging from 0.001 to 100% (models GS6500 & GS6600)
  • Carbon dioxide range : Autoranging from 0.1 to 100% (models GS6600 & GS6700)
  • Response time : <5 seconds (O2), <10 seconds (CO2)
  • Weight : 4kg (9lbs)
  • Dimensions : 305W x 254D x 152H mm (13.5W x 11.5D x 5.7H inches)
  • Can piercing station : For analysis of rigid cans and jars

  Features and benefits

  • Easy to set up and use
  • AccuFlow transducer
  • Intuitive menu
  • One-Touch calibration
  • Set tests for pass and fail
  • Lightweight and easy to move around
  • USB port for diagnostic software
  • Optional:
    1. external printer via RS232
    2. computer software
    3. can piercing station
    4. 45° adaptor for can piercing station

  Applications

  • Fresh Meat
  • Fresh, Prepared & Frozen Products
  • Snack Foods
  • Beverage Products
  • Medical Device Packaging
  • Pharmaceutical Packaging