This VGA-002 is a key analytical solution that will help your site to meet the relevant food packaging quality control requirements. It boasts a wide range of features; however, this device can be used with minimal training.
The unit has been designed with a large colour screen, lithium battery and large SD memory to drive an easy-to-use interface. The Oxygen Analyser swiftly and precisely measures the O2 and O2 content of gas flushed food packaging (Modified Atmosphere Packaging. No software is required, results can be stored on the Map-Pak device or can be downloaded to a computer as a CSV (Excel) file using the USB cable provided. Alternatively, a separate, low- cost Bluetooth portable printer is available.
The easily programmable “Product Profile” feature incorporates all the important information and control features required and is comprised of the following editable parameters for each product: Customer Name, Product Name, Weight, O2 Alarms (High & Low), Gas Volume Setting.
Key Features
- Lightweight & Portable
- Fast and Accurate O2 readings
- Easy to use interface
- Minimal gas sample required
- Holds Calibration for one year; no interim procedures required
- Modular probe design with easy to replace parts
- Long Battery Life / Alternative mains power supply
- Sample Flow sensor for Needle blockage alarm
Typical Applications
- Meat and Poultry
- Seafood
- Pre-cooked Meats
- Dairy Produce
- Fruits & Vegetables
- Convenience Foods
- Baked Goods
- Salads
- Pasta
- Coffee
- Pharmaceuticals
Glove Box Analysis Calibration & Calibration Interface
The Analyser requires an annual calibration only. There is an Ambient Calibration function available to the user to check the calibration using an air sample (O2 being 20.9% typically). The Calibration Interface can be used for checking the accuracy of the unit against a certified and known gas mixture. Using 1/8” Tubing from the gas regulator fitted to the gas cylinder can be connected and tightened to the ‘Sample In’ fitting provided on the calibration interface. The unit provides the correct flow and filtration required for performing these calibration functions and also serves as an additional Quality Control check for the gases used in the food packaging processes.
Principle Of Operation
Gas Analyser is using a small gas sample from the gas flushed pack, measures, and records levels of Oxygen (O2). The levels of gas are measured using specially customised sensors; Oxygen levels are measured by an electrochemical sensor and the Carbon Dioxide levels are measured by a nondispersive infrared sensor (NDIR). An electric pump automatically draws the gas sample from the food packaging via the sample probe into the sensor array. The O2 and CO2 particles are detected by the respective sensors and the measurements are displayed on the screen within seconds. The N2 level is then displayed as a balance gas reading.
| Accuracy | O2 ± 1% (full scale) | Accuracy at 1% O2 & 20% CO2 | Better than ± 0.25% O2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 0.10% | Repeatability | 1% relative to gas reading |
| Measurement Methods | Electro Chemical Sensor (O2) | Measurement range | 0% to 100% in 0.1% increments |
| Operating temperature | 0 to +40 Degrees Celsius | Response time | <20 seconds |
| Sensor Lifetime | O2 Sensor - 2 years* | Sample Gas Volume Options | Low: 6 mL Medium: 30 mL High: 50 mL |
| Sample Inlet Fitting | Sturdy Nickel Plated Brass Bulkhead Connector for tubing connection | Sample Probe Fittings | User replaceable and modular design with flexible PVC Tubing |
| Filters | External Hydrophobic Filter & Internal Inline Filter to protect Sensor Array | Product Profiles | 20 Programmable Product Profiles combined with Operator ID’s and Line Numbers |
| Sampling Function | One button to begin sampling and automatic display of results | Purge Function | Double press button to clear sample path with larger volume of a new gas mixture |
| Alarms | Customisable High & Low Alarms for both O2 and CO2 readings for each Product Profile | Calibration Interval | Once a year. Ambient Calibration option available for customer check if required. |
| User Interface | 3.5” Colour Touch Screen Display | Data Storage | 10,000+ Measurements stored internally on high capacity SD card |
| Data Output - PC | USB Cable (Type A Plug to Micro Type B Plug) provided. Download results to CSV file (Excel) with no software required. Wi-Fi Enabled | Data Output - Thermal Printer | Bluetooth® connection to Thermal Printer for automatic print-outs of results |
| Power supply | USB Charger, 5V 2.1A with Universal AC Supply | Battery | Rechargeable Lithium Polymer High-Capacity Battery - 2500 mAh |
| Operation Time | 8 Hours typically (depending on usage) | Power Saver Function | User defined auto-shutdown feature to conserve battery life (can be turned off also) |
| Enclosure | ABS plastic with recessed probe holder (Wipe-clean, Strong and light-weight) | Dimensions | 190 (L) x 79 (W) x 47 (D) mm |
| Approvals | CE - according to EMC 2004/108/EC, Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC and EN300328. Manufactured under the auspices of ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System | Accessories Provided (as standard with each unit) | Needles (5), Septa (100), Hydrophobic Filters (3), Bench Mount Carry Case (1 off), USB Cable (1), Universal Mains Adapter (1), User Manual (1) & Calibration Certificate (1). |
