Modified Atmosphere Analyser (Portable) - MAPtest 3050
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HITECH INSTRUMENTS A member of the MTL Instruments Group technical datasheet MAPtest 3050 analyser Food packaging atmosphere analyser • Proven technology from gas analyser experts • Suitable for all O2 – CO2 – N2 mixtures • Auto calibration • Choice of sampling • Datalogging and download software Applications • Food packaging • Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) • Controlled atmosphere packaging (CAP) • quilibrium modified atmosphere E packaging (EMAP) Modified atmosphere packaging is a technique for extending shelf life for most food products. It is an accurate description as the 'normal atmosphere' is approximately 80/20 nitrogen/oxygen with less than 1% carbon dioxide. This ratio is modified in different ways depending on the foodstuff, e.g. red meat is packed in an oxygen rich atmosphere. It is important to ensure that the correct gas mixture is used to ensure the forecast shelf life is achieved, so gas analysis must be included in all Quality Assurance programmes. Carbon dioxide inhibits growth of most aerobic bacteria and moulds. Generally the higher the level of CO2 the longer the shelf life but excess levels can cause flavour tainting and pack collapse. Hitech use a thermal conductivity sensor to measure carbon dioxide. Although non-specific (not a problem in this strictly three gas atmosphere) the thermal conductivity sensor is not subject to the same degradation that can occur with infrared sensor light sources and will require less servicing. Oxygen causes oxidative degeneration of food but there are also reasons why it might be included (e.g. maintaining colour and respiration, inhibiting anaerobic organisms). Hitech use a zirconia sensor which is nondepleting, fast responding and accurate over the full range of applications. This is a significant advantage over electrochemical fuel cells (as used in handheld instruments) which are slower to respond, less accurate and require regular replacement. Nitrogen is an inert gas and is used as the ‘filler’ gas once the other two gas levels are optimised. Nitrogen has no dedicated sensor and is calculated as the balance after oxygen and carbon dioxide are measured. A choice of sampling methods is provided. The built-in pump can be used to withdraw a sample from a pack using the probe supplied. It is designed for single handed operation and the pump can be programmed to withdraw 500-0027 Rev1 260411 www.hitech-inst.co.uk hitechsales@cooperindustries.com volumes from 5-90ml. Alternatively a manual sample can be taken by syringe and injected into a septum sample port. Using this method sample flow is automatically detected and the analysis automatically produced 5 seconds after end of sample delivery. The MAPtest 3050 is supplied with a complete set of accessories and consumables for both sampling methods. 1000 results are stored in the instrument and these can be transferred to a PC using optional MAPlog software or there is an optional stand alone printer. Service contracts are available and include test and calibration certificates to satisfy regulatory authorities. The MAPtest 3050 is a versatile workhorse giving you many years of use. Hitech MAP analysers are used and recommended by Air Products.

ORDERING INFORMATION Data Storage 1000 results (Optional MAPlog software available for downloading data to Oxygen, carbon dioxide and nitrogen all Carbon dioxide: ±1% of span 5 seconds from completion of sampling Sample volume Maximum pumped volume Serial RS232 for computer link Optional Printer 24 column plain paper desk-top model Ambient temperature Power requirements Dimensions (approximate) Sample Probe Assembly 237-0031 Desktop Printer (24 column, plain paper) 419-0092 Printer Paper Rolls (Pack of 10) 419-0002 Septa Rubber Inserts (Pack of 100) 243-0098 Sticky Foam Sealing Pads (Pack...