GST-01 ゲル強度試験機

I. Introduction to Gel Strength Tester

The gel strength tester is a specialized instrument designed to measure the firmness and consistency of gels across various industries. Essential in ensuring product quality and consistency, the Bloom Tester plays a critical role in various industries. Its primary application is in the food sector, particularly in measuring the gel strength of surimi-based products like imitation crab meat, which directly impacts texture and consumer satisfaction.

II. Gelatin Bloom Strength

Gel strength is a critical quality parameter that directly impacts the texture, performance, and consumer acceptance of products. For instance, in the food industry, the firmness of gelatin or surimi-based products affects their mouthfeel, firmness, and overall sensory appeal. Similarly, in pharmaceuticals, consistent gel formulations are vital for effective medication delivery.

Gel Strength Definition

Gel strength refers to the ability of a gel to resist deformation under an applied force. It is quantified in g·cm, which is the product of force and distance. It is a crucial quality parameter, particularly in the food industry, where the texture and firmness of products like surimi are key to consumer appeal. The measure gel strength also extends to other industries such as pharmaceuticals, where it ensures the consistency and efficacy of gel-based medications.

Bloom Strength Definition

Bloom strength is a specific measure of gel firmness, defined as the weight in grams required to depress the surface of a gel by 4 mm. It is widely used in the gelatin industry to assess product quality and consistency.

Application Examples

• Surimi Industry: In the production of imitation crab meat, gel strength determines the product’s texture and quality.
• Pharmaceuticals: Ensures consistency in gel-based medicines.
• Adhesives and Other Industries: Critical for product performance and application.

III. Key Features of the Bloom Tester

テスト項目

• WEIGHT: To measure distance at a certain load
• PEAK: To measure gel strength
• DISTANCE: To measure load at a certain distance
• BLOOM STRENGTH: To measure the weight in grams required to depress the surface of a gel by 4 mm

Technical Specifications

The Bloom Tester is engineered with precision and robustness. Its technical specifications include:

Test Range	0-50N (or as required)
Stroke	110mm (without probe)
Test Speed	1~100mm/min
Displacement Accuracy	0.01mm
Accuracy	0.5% F.S.
Control	PLC and human machine interface
Output	Screen, Microprinter, RS232(optional)

Bloom Tester Technical Feature

• PLC-Controlled Unit: Offers industrial-level stability with HMI touch screen operation.
• 7-inch HMI Touch Screen: Ensures user-friendly interface and easy operation.
• Precision Ball Lead Screw Mechanism: Provides precise control over speed and displacement.
• Specially Designed Program: Enhances flexibility in conducting various gel strength tests.
• Multiple Fixtures: Allows various texture analyses.
• Safety Features: Includes travel limit protection, automatic returning, and load cell protection cover.
• Multiple Test Items: Measures weight, peak, and distance accurately.
• Dot Matrix Type Microprinter: Facilitates immediate printouts of test results.
• RS 232 Port and Professional Software: (Optional) For advanced data management.

カスタマイズ

The GST-01 offers customizable settings tailored to specific testing needs. It allows adjustments in testing items and probes to suit different gel strength and texture analyses.

IV. Bloom Strength Testing Process

The gel strength test involves compressing the surface of a gel specimen using a punch probe of a specific diameter and length. The standard settings include:

• Probe diameter: 5 mm
• Compression speed: 60 mm/min
• Measurement unit: g·cm (force × distance)

The force applied until the gel punctures is recorded, providing a precise measure of its strength.

V. Applications of GST-01 Gel Strength Tester

Food Industry

• Quality Control in Surimi Production: Ensures consistent texture and quality in products like imitation crab meat.
• Consistency Checks for Gel-Based Foods: Vital for maintaining product standards in various gel-based food items.

Medical and Pharmaceutical Industries

• Testing Gel-Based Medical Products: Ensures the efficacy and consistency of gel-based medical products.
• Pharmaceutical Applications: Maintains quality control in gel-based pharmaceuticals.

VI. FAQ

1. What is gel strength and why is it important?

Gel strength measures a gel’s ability to resist deformation under force, critical for determining texture and quality in food and pharmaceuticals.

2. How does the GST-01 Gel Strength Tester work?

The GST-01 uses a punch probe to compress the gel surface at a constant deformation rate until puncture, recording the force and distance to calculate gel strength.

3. What are the key features of the GST-01?

The GST-01 features a 7-inch HMI touch screen, precision ball lead screw mechanism, multiple fixtures, and safety features, making it highly accurate and user-friendly.

4. Can the GST-01 be customized for specific tests?

Yes, the GST-01 offers customizable settings and probes to meet specific testing needs, making it versatile for various applications.

5. What is bloom strength in gel strength testing?

Bloom strength is a measure of the firmness of a gel, typically gelatin, and is defined as the weight in grams required to depress a standard plunger into the gel by 4 mm. It is a key parameter in the food industry to determine the quality and setting properties of gelatin-based products.

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