MOCON has announced the global launch of its PERMATRAN-W® Model 3/33 Plus, a new generation of its industry standard, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) line.

For the first time, units in the Model 3/33 series will offer automatic relative humidity (RH) capability via a new software interface. This will help brand owners quickly and simply achieve accurate and precise relative humidity conditions. Precise results are critical to understanding how barriers will perform in real-world conditions. The PERMATRAN-W series tests the WVTR of films as well as finished flexible and/or rigid plastic-based packaging.

RH significantly impacts the water vapor transmission rate of many materials. MOCON ensures accuracy in obtaining precise RH by incorporating a patented modulated infrared probe within the test cell. A high-precision sensor provides parts-per-million sensitivity. Any deviation from the desired set-point is automatically adjusted. With temperature and RH automation incorporated in the new PERMATRAN-W Model 3/33 Plus, obtaining reliable information to help make critical decisions is effortless.

“Having a unit that can duplicate a realistic environment means that you won’t be spending money on packaging barrier that exceeds your product needs. Reducing material thickness will also have a positive impact on transportation and other costs. The ability to simplify the process for the lab operator is a big bonus,” said Joel Fischer, lab manager, MOCON.

The new PERMATRAN-W Model 3/33 Plus series comes in three different master base control systems with three satellite modules — each providing different test capabilities for a maximum of 20 test cells per system.

Market segments that can benefit from the unit’s capabilities include: food, beverage, pharmaceutical, medical device, cosmetic, chemicals, etc. Additionally, the unit is ideal for manufacturers and converters of packaging materials and containers, laboratories, universities, military, etc. The PERMATRAN-W Model 3/33 Plus will be represented by Paul Lippke Handles in Europe.