Stable Micro Systems has developed a new test for measuring the resilience of thin, film-

like foods. The innovative Film Support Rig is used in conjunction with the company's
TA.XTplus texture analyser to measure the burst strength and resilience of a wide range
of food products including confectionery strips, leaf gelatine, nori no·ri
n. pl. no·ris
An edible, dried preparation of red algae of the genus Porphyra.

[Japanese.] , rice paper and wafer thin meats and cheeses. Using the new attachment new
attachment,
n a connection formed between epithelium or connective tissue and a root surface that has
lost its original attachment; this new connection may involve new cementum, epithelial
adhesion, and connective adaptation. , manufacturers can also assess the mechanical
properties of sheet packaging materials such as shrink wrapping, plastic film, foil and
bakery parchment parchment, untanned skins of animals, especially of the sheep, calf,
and goat, prepared for use as a writing material. The name is a corruption of Pergamum,
the ancient city of Asia Minor where preparation of parchment suitable for use on both
sides was achieved in .

The Film Support Rig was initially developed in response to fast growth and increased
competition in the breath freshening strip sector. Its versatility, however, allows wide
application in a number of different markets. Thin products such as the increasingly
popular mouth strips, wafer thin meats or rice paper must be strong enough to resist
breakage when handled by the consumer. Using the Film Support Rig, manufacturers can
identify weaknesses and adjust formulations accordingly.
Prior to performing the test, the sample is placed over a hole in a raised perspex platform.
A top plate prevents the sample from slipping during testing. The test is then carried out
as the arm of the TA.XTplus brings a 5mm stainless steel
ball probe down into the aperture An orifice. It often refers to an opening in which light
is allowed to pass in optical systems such as cameras and lasers. See f-stop and numerical
aperture. . The maximum force to rupture the product is recorded and is referred to as
burst strength.

The resilience and relaxation properties of the sample can also be measured. Resilience
can be assessed by depressing the surface to a chosen distance before retracting the ball
probe. The property is calculated using a ratio of the work of compression and work of
withdrawal. Similarly, relaxation can be measured with the addition of a hold period
within the test to allow the product's recovery to be evaluated. Both these properties
broaden the application of the Film Support Rig. Burst strength, resilience and relaxation
are important factors in determining the mechanical properties of a product, allowing
manufacturers to optimize product structure and formulation.

The Film Support Rig is the newest addition to Stable Micro Systems' comprehensive
range of testing instrumentation.

Contact Stable Micro Systems on tel: 01483 427345 or visit

www.stablemicrosystems.com