Saicheng RSY-R2 Thermal Shrinkage Tester for Plastic Films
| Brand | Saicheng |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shandong, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | RSY-R2 |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Saicheng RSY-R2 Thermal Shrinkage Tester is an engineered instrument designed for precise quantification of dimensional change in thermoplastic films under controlled thermal exposure. It operates on the principle of immersion-based thermal contraction measurement: test specimens are suspended in a temperature-stabilized liquid bath (typically heat-transfer oil), held at a user-defined setpoint for a specified dwell time, then removed, cooled to ambient temperature, and measured for length and width changes. The resulting linear shrinkage percentage—calculated separately for machine direction (MD) and transverse direction (TD)—provides critical data for quality control, material selection, and process validation in flexible packaging manufacturing. This method aligns with standardized thermal shrinkage evaluation protocols used globally in polymer film development and packaging engineering.
Key Features
- Microprocessor-based control system with backlit LCD display and intuitive PVC membrane keypad interface, supporting menu-driven operation without external software dependency
- Digital PID temperature regulation ensures rapid thermal equilibration and maintains ±0.5 °C stability across the operational range (typically 40–120 °C)
- Immersion heating via thermostatically controlled oil bath delivers uniform, non-contact thermal transfer—eliminating convective air gradients and surface overheating artifacts
- Integrated automatic timing function initiates and terminates exposure precisely, minimizing operator-induced variability in dwell duration
- Standardized specimen support frame (supplied as three interchangeable mesh fixtures) secures film samples tautly without edge deformation or slippage during immersion
- Robust stainless-steel construction with insulated heating chamber and safety-rated thermal cutoffs compliant with IEC 61000-6-2 electromagnetic compatibility requirements
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The RSY-R2 accommodates standard film specimens measuring 100 mm × 100 mm (or custom dimensions within 120 mm × 120 mm limits), suitable for single-layer and coextruded polyolefin (PE, PP), polyester (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyolefin (POF), and oriented polystyrene (OPS) shrink films. Its methodology satisfies the geometric and procedural requirements of GB/T 13519–2016 “Plastic Shrinkable Film for Packaging” and ASTM D2732–20 “Standard Test Method for Unrestrained Linear Thermal Shrinkage of Plastic Film and Sheeting”. While not certified to ISO/IEC 17025, the instrument’s design supports GLP-aligned documentation workflows when paired with laboratory-controlled calibration logs and operator training records.
Software & Data Management
The RSY-R2 operates as a standalone hardware platform with no embedded data logging or PC connectivity. All test parameters—including set temperature, exposure duration, and operator ID—are manually entered and retained in volatile memory until power cycle. Final shrinkage calculations (% MD, % TD) require manual post-test measurement using calibrated digital calipers (e.g., Mitutoyo 500-196-30, resolution 0.01 mm) and subsequent entry into spreadsheets or LIMS. For regulated environments, users may integrate the instrument into 21 CFR Part 11–compliant workflows by maintaining written test protocols, signed raw data sheets, and audit-trail-enabled electronic records outside the device.
Applications
- Validation of shrink tension consistency across production lots of PE shrink sleeves used in beverage can multipacks
- Comparative thermal response analysis of PETG vs. OPS films under identical bath conditions for label application optimization
- QC release testing per internal specifications for PVC-based shrink bundling film supplied to pharmaceutical secondary packaging lines
- Development-stage screening of novel metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene blends for improved low-temperature shrink onset behavior
- Root-cause investigation of field failures linked to excessive shrinkage-induced package distortion or seal integrity loss
FAQ
What temperature range is supported by the RSY-R2?
The instrument achieves stable operation from 40 °C to 120 °C, with typical use cases concentrated between 60 °C and 100 °C depending on film activation thresholds.
Is calibration traceable to national standards?
The unit includes a factory calibration certificate for the integrated PT100 sensor; end-users are responsible for periodic verification against NIST-traceable dry-block calibrators or reference thermometers.
Can the RSY-R2 test opaque or metallized films?
Yes—since measurement relies solely on physical dimension change after cooling, optical properties such as opacity or aluminum coating do not interfere with result accuracy.
How many specimens can be tested simultaneously?
One specimen per test cycle; however, up to three independent tests may be sequenced manually using the included mesh fixtures without recalibration.
Does the system meet CE or UL safety certification?
The RSY-R2 complies with GB 4793.1–2019 (equivalent to IEC 61010-1) for electrical safety in laboratory equipment but does not carry CE or UL marks for export markets requiring those declarations.
