Hot-Tack II

To measure the Hot-Tack a lot of different methods were developed. The main variables influencing testing with the known methods are the release force and the released path.

Within the IVLV-Project "Round robin test Hot-Tack" the actual state of Hot-Tack testing in the packaging industry was assessed and hints for standardisation were given. [1] Together with industry partners round robin tests with different methods used today and testing devices for Hot-Tack tests were carried out. For the same testing device with same equipment (e. g. sealing tools), but with different attendance date and age, although with same parameters, significant differences in quality and quantity of the results were measured.

By using the gained results it is aimed to proof if repeatable and comparable measurements under idealised conditions (e. g. used equipment, climate etc.) with different methods can be realised. Following facts shall be established within the project "Hot-Tack II":

• statements about comparability and reproducibility under idealised conditions and reasons for possibly testing differences
• comparability of the two different methods (release force and the released path ) and investigation of comparability between these two methods

Based on the results of the project "Hot-Tack II" the communication between film suppliers and customers regarding the specification parameter Hot-Tack will be enhanced. Requirements are reproducibility and comparability of the measured results under ‘normal’ conditions even with different testing devices. Furthermore the standardisation activities of the German DIN association will be assisted to build up a standard that considers the used methods in Germany and Europe.