Inspection Insights Blog from ALPS Leak Detection

ALPS Inspection, Now Your Metal Detection Partner

Written by ALPS Expert | Nov 7, 2025 2:43:46 PM

Integrating leak testing into your blow molding production processes is a proven step toward ensuring consistent quality in every container you produce. This defect inspection remains the foundation of container quality assurance, but it’s not the only factor that matters.

Metal contamination in plastic containers is an important product safety issue. With the increased use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic and the potential for wear on production equipment, small metal contaminants can make their way into containers. While these contaminants may not always result in a visible or structural defect, they can compromise safety and brand trust.

That’s why ALPS Inspection, as part of TASI Test and Automation’s Package Integrity group, now partners with CASSEL Inspection to offer metal detection equipment alongside our industry-leading leak detection solutions.

Why Metal Detection Matters in Blow Molding

Metal contamination can occur at multiple points in the blow-molding production process:

  • From raw materials, particularly recycled content.
  • From wear and tear on molds or processing equipment.
  • From machinery along the production line.

Even if a container passes leak inspection, it could still contain embedded metal fragments. Customers and regulators alike are putting more emphasis on safety and contamination control. Adding metal detection provides peace of mind and an extra layer of quality assurance.

A Combined Approach: Leak + Metal Detection

ALPS Inspection is known for leak detection expertise and seamless integration into blow molding lines. By partnering with CASSEL Inspection, we now extend that same expertise into metal detection.

Together, leak detection and metal detection deliver a comprehensive quality approach:

  • Leak detection protects against container defects that affect performance, integrity, and safety.
  • Metal detection identifies physical contaminants that may cause leaks or pose product safety risks.

This combined strategy gives blow molders greater confidence in both product integrity and consumer safety.

“Our customers choose ALPS because we understand their lines, their conveyors, and their challenges. We work with them to integrate the best inspection solutions, from leak detection to metal detection, that fit their products and goals.” – Jill Shearer, General Manager

Seamless Integration Into Your Line

Adding metal detection equipment doesn’t mean sacrificing efficiency. ALPS Inspection's container-handling expertise ensures both leak testers and metal detectors can be integrated into the same footprint, sometimes even over an existing conveyor, without slowing production.

Our team works with you to:

  • Understand your materials (PCR, virgin plastic).
  • Assess metal contamination risks in your process.
  • Design an inspection solution that meets your safety and quality requirements.

Discover how rPET is shaping sustainable packaging in food and beverage.

Beyond Leaks: More Detection Options

While leak testing remains our core expertise, our addition of metal detection support showcases that we go beyond leaks; we are your quality assurance expert when it comes to your empty container handling.

We are also proud to provide additional inspection options such as:

  • Top load detection for containers that may deform under load.
  • Laser height detection for short shots.
  • Simple vision option for choked necks.

These add-ons help ensure container safety and integrity at every level, showing that ALPS is more than a leak detection partner, we’re a comprehensive inspection solutions provider.

Learn more about what causes common plastic container defects and how to prevent them.

ALPS Inspection, Now Your Metal Detection Partner

With ALPS Inspection, you don’t have to manage multiple vendors to ensure quality. We understand your production lines, we support spare parts for both leak and metal detection, and we’re backed by the resources of TASI Test and Automation’s family of businesses.

Whether you’re navigating new PCR requirements, enhancing safety standards, or simply protecting your equipment and brand, ALPS is now your metal detection partner.

Ready to explore how defect and metal detection can work together on your line? Contact the ALPS team today to start designing a solution tailored to your operation.