Thermal management is crucial for proper heat-sealing of packaging of medical devices and pharmaceuticals. To achieve this, Sensor Products Inc, Madison, NJ, developed its Thermex temperature distribution film, which can be used in heat sealing and ultrasonic welding of packaging to diagnose the temperature at the interface of heated contacting platens or rollers. Temperatures ranging from 200° to 300°F (93° to 149°C) are within Thermex’s range. Traditional methods of thermal management may not adequately reveal that uniform temperature distribution at the interface has been achieved.

Upon exposure to heat, Thermex changes color instantaneously and permanently to reveal temperature distribution between any two contacting surfaces. The intensity of this color change directly relates to the temperature it was exposed to enabling it to reveal spot high or low temperature zones and minute surface variations. These fluctuations cause improper sealing and need to be corrected to ensure quality control. Vertical form and fill machines, vacuum and flat web machines, and lamination presses may be inspected with this product