Paper Permeability Automatic Tester TQY500

Overview

The TQY500 Paper Permeability Automatic Tester is a dedicated, microprocessor-controlled instrument engineered for the precise and repeatable quantification of air permeance in porous paper-based materials—specifically cigarette paper, forming paper, tipping paper, and other functional papers with discrete or directional permeability bands. It operates on the principle of standardized airflow measurement under controlled differential pressure, conforming to the fundamental methodology defined in ISO 2965:2009 and GB/T 23227. The device measures volumetric airflow (in mL/min) through a defined test area (2 cm²) at a specified pressure differential (typically 1.00 kPa), then converts the result directly into the industry-standard Coresta unit (1 Coresta = 1 µm²/Pa·s). Its closed-loop pneumatic architecture ensures stable pressure regulation across the full 0–40,000 Coresta range without manual recalibration, enabling traceable, GLP-aligned testing in QC laboratories and R&D environments.

Key Features

• High-speed automated testing: Completes a single permeability measurement in ≤5 seconds, including sample positioning, pressure stabilization, flow acquisition, and data logging.
• Full-range auto-ranging capability: Measures continuously from 0 to 40,000 Coresta with automatic pressure adjustment—eliminating manual range switching and minimizing operator intervention.
• Integrated walk-through paper handling: Motorized feed mechanism accommodates uncut tipping paper rolls; adjustable platform enables consistent alignment and contact pressure without pre-cutting or manual clamping.
• High-stability sensing system: Utilizes imported differential pressure and mass flow sensors calibrated against NIST-traceable reference standards, delivering ≤±2% accuracy and ≤±1% repeatability under routine lab conditions.
• Dual-mode operation: Supports both “Single Test” (for targeted spot checks) and “Auto Sequence” (for multi-point profiling across sheet width or longitudinal strips), each with configurable dwell time and pass/fail thresholds.
• Real-time timestamping and audit-ready logging: Every test record includes date, time, operator ID (if configured), environmental temperature/pressure (optional external sensor input), and raw sensor outputs—stored internally and exportable with metadata integrity.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TQY500 is validated for use with all standard tobacco-related paper substrates, including but not limited to cellulose-based cigarette paper (uncoated and coated), reconstituted tobacco sheet (RTS), plug wrap, and dual-permeability tipping paper featuring laser-perforated or electrostatically modified zones. Its mechanical design conforms to the dimensional and clamping requirements specified in ISO 2965:2009 Annex A and GB/T 23227 Section 6. All firmware and calibration routines are documented per JJG(Tobacco) 08–2014, supporting metrological traceability during regulatory audits. While not certified for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 out-of-the-box, the system’s secure user authentication, electronic signature support (via optional software module), and immutable audit trail meet foundational ALCOA+ principles required for GMP-compliant tobacco product manufacturing facilities.

Software & Data Management

The embedded Linux-based controller features a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with intuitive icon-driven navigation and multilingual UI (English, Chinese, Spanish). Raw and processed data—including individual test points, statistical summaries (mean, SD, CV%), trend charts, and pass/fail status—are stored in CSV and XML formats on internal flash memory. USB 2.0 host port supports direct export to USB drives; RS-232 and 10/100 Mbps Ethernet interfaces enable integration with LIMS, MES, or centralized QA databases via Modbus TCP or custom TCP/IP protocols. Optional PC software (TQY-Link v3.x) provides advanced analysis tools: spatial mapping of permeability gradients, batch comparison reports, SPC charting (X̄–R, Cpk), and automated compliance reporting against GB/T 12655 or ISO 2965 tolerance limits.

Applications

• Quality control of cigarette paper permeability to ensure consistent burn rate and tar delivery in finished cigarettes.
• Validation of laser-perforation patterns on tipping paper during high-speed converting operations.
• R&D screening of novel fiber blends, coating formulations, or nanocellulose additives affecting gas diffusion behavior.
• Supplier qualification testing per ISO 2965 acceptance criteria for incoming paper reels.
• Process troubleshooting—correlating permeability drift with changes in paper caliper, moisture content, or calendering pressure.
• Regulatory submission support: Generating auditable datasets for PMTA, TPD, or local health authority documentation packages.

FAQ

What pressure differential does the TQY500 apply during measurement?

The instrument maintains a nominal 1.00 kPa (10 mbar) pressure drop across the sample, as mandated by ISO 2965:2009 and GB/T 23227. Pressure is actively regulated using a closed-loop proportional valve and verified in real time by the primary transducer.
Can the TQY500 measure non-tobacco papers such as filter media or packaging board?

Yes—provided the material is flat, dimensionally stable under vacuum, and falls within the 0–40,000 Coresta range. However, validation per ASTM D737 or ISO 9277 may be required for non-tobacco applications.
Is external calibration required annually?

Per JJG(Tobacco) 08–2014, annual verification using certified reference permeability standards (e.g., NIST SRM 2900 series or equivalent) is recommended. The built-in zero and span checks support daily operational verification.
Does the system support networked user permissions?

Yes—firmware v2.4+ supports role-based access control (Operator, Supervisor, Administrator) with password protection and session timeout. Audit logs capture all configuration changes and user actions.
What maintenance is required to sustain measurement accuracy?

Routine tasks include weekly cleaning of the test head gasket and orifice, monthly inspection of the air filtration system (coalescing + activated carbon filters), and biannual sensor drift verification using factory-provided check standards.