Everything you need to know about tamper evident security seals

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The principal reason for using tamper evident seals is to ensure the integrity of the package that the seal is affixed to. They provide visual evidence of any attempt to open or manipulate that package. Ultimately, it discourages unauthorized opening or tampering. 

Even a premier tamper evident seal is not a lock. Instead, the seal is typically designed to be used only once before being destroyed. If tamper evident security seal indicates that someone has attempted to open any packages, you can start an investigation to catch the violator, whether you discover the attempt or the recipients do. 

They come in different types. You can even get a customized tamper evident seal printed with your logo. A tamper evident feature varies according to the type. Some have tampering indicators such as perforations or frangible materials that break or tear when the package is opened. Others have special adhesives that leave a residue or other visible evidence if the seal is removed. Still others use high-strength metals and require special tools to remove. 

How to use tamper evident security seals

It's a straightforward process that generally involves applying the seal to a package or product in a specific way to ensure its effectiveness. How a security seal is used depends on the type, but here are the general steps for using one. 

1. Apply the seal

To apply the seal, first make sure the surface you'll be sealing is clean and dry. Then, position the seal over the opening or access point that you want to secure. Press down firmly on the seal to activate any adhesive or locking mechanisms that are part of the seal. Some seals may require you to peel off a protective backing or other layer before applying.

2. Check the seal

Once the seal is applied, check to make sure it is securely in place and that any locking mechanisms have engaged. Verify that the seal is intact and that there are no signs of tampering or damage. Some seals may have additional features, such as unique identifiers or serial numbers, that can be used to verify authenticity.

3. Monitor the seal

Keep an eye on the seal over time to ensure that it remains intact and that there is no visible evidence of tampering or damage. If you notice any issues or concerns, take appropriate action to investigate and address them.

It's important to follow the instructions provided with the specific security seal you're using. 

How to select the right seal

Consider your requirements and the features necessary to what you want to achieve. This will include multiple factors, such as:

Type of seal

Weigh the different types of security seals against each other, including labels, tapes, bags, and other forms, such as tamper evident seal stickers. This will involve consideration of your industry. A tamper evident seal for food isn't necessarily the best choice for tamper evident seals on foley catheters.

Level of security

You have several choices here, as you'll see below. If you need a high level of security, consider a bolt seal. Another way to go is with a seal that allows for customized information, such as a serialization tamper evident seal. Serialization is a critical part of supply chain security initiatives. A unique serial number is assigned to each package. This number is then recorded in a database, allowing manufacturers and consumers to track the package throughout its lifecycle.

Industry requirements

Does your industry have specific requirements for this range? For example, international freight transports often demand ISO 17712 certified high-security seal. U.S. regulations require tamper-resistant packaging to ensure the integrity of  pharmaceutical packaging. A tamper evident seal bottle would qualify here. 

Material

Tamper-evident seals can be made from plastic, metal or paper. Consider which material is best suited for your application, based on factors such as durability, environmental conditions, and the type of package you're sealing.

Application method

Application methods vary according to the type of tamper-evident seals you're using, from self-adhesive to bolting. Consider which method best suits your needs – do you want ease of applying the seal? Do you want it easily removed? Or is the application method not so much a priority as the security that the seal provides? These are points that only you can decide by balancing them against other considerations. 

Cost

A tamper evident security seal can vary in cost, depending on the type, material, and features. Consider your budget and how much you're willing to spend on security measures, while also ensuring that the seal you choose is effective for your needs.

Overall, selecting the right seal requires careful consideration of your specific needs and the level of security you require. By choosing the right one, you can help to ensure the safety, integrity, and authenticity of your packages.

Security seal types

The International Organization for Standardization ISO 17712 classifies three types of security seals: Indicative, Security, and High. 

Indicative seals

Class “I” indicative seals have a low breaking strength and are easily broken by hand or by using a simple snipping tool or shear. Most indicative seals are one-piece.

 

Narrow recess seal

This plastic seal is specially designed for applications that require a very slim seal. The padlock seal has an all-plastic design with an acetal jaw-locking mechanism. Easy and convenient, single-handed application. These are available in blue, green, orange, red, white and yellow. 

Use for: Utility box meters, security documents and securing in-flight trolleys, ATM cassettes and other cart applications. Also suitable for banking and cash-in transit

Tamper evident label

Tamper evident label made of polyester is easily applied as a tamper-evident seal tape. The matte surface is suitable for writing and provided in die-cut pieces. Option available that doesn't leave behind residue. Another option: a tamper evident label that provides visual evidence by leaving a 'VOID' message to alert you to tampering.

Use for: Confidential documents and containers, gaming security, restricted medical packaging, computer and information technology products

Pull tight seals – smooth strap

Easy to apply and tighten to a desired diameter. Several seal types are available, including those with longer tags and with a tear-off tab for quick and easy removal. These seals have a polypropylene strap with a stainless-steel locking jaw and are also available with a barbed strap. 

JawLock is a versatile seal designed for small strap diameters, making it ideal for securing items with a small aperture. The thin round and smooth strap has side tear-off functionality and includes a full-size tag with ample surface for codings. SegurLock and SmoothLock are user-friendly options featuring smooth straps with gripping prongs on the stem. TeraLock provides high-break strength with a stainless steel locking jaw and heat weld cap that helps enhance security.

JawLock is a versatile seal designed for small strap diameters, making it ideal for securing items with a small aperture. The thin round and smooth strap has side tear-off functionality and includes a full-size tag with ample surface for codings. SegurLock and SmoothLock are user-friendly options featuring smooth straps with gripping prongs on the stem. TeraLock provides high-break strength with a stainless steel locking jaw and heat weld cap that helps enhance security.

Use for:

  Mini JawLock Maxi JawLock SegurLock SmoothLock TeraLock Courier and postal bags x x x x x Cash bags and containers     x   x Vehicle door latches     x   x Tote bags     x   x Roll cage pallets     x x x Tankers – petroleum, bulk foods and liquids   x   x   Forensic evidence bags       x   Plastic distribution boxes       x   Airline food and duty-free trolleys x         Security documents and containers x         Gaming security x         Large bags for retail, pharma and food industries   x      

 

Security seal

Class “S” security seals are made of material that provides limited resistance to intrusion and requires lightweight tools for removal.

Cable seals – plastic body

A highly secure alternative to standard locks, due to an enhanced locking mechanism. The seal is easy to use on pull-tight applications. The long tag is ideal for printing tamper-evident-seal QR codes or serial numbers and barcodes of up to 13-digits. The seal also has very high tensile strength and can be removed with the appropriate cable cutters. Polypropylene (PP) body with chrome plated steel hasp. These are available in green, blue and red.

Use for: Vehicle doors, bulk tankers, duty-free carts and roll cages

Padlock seals

An ideal choice for more demanding application. These seals offer a low-cost and secure single-use alternative to conventional padlocks. Options include a smart tamper evident seal that features an RFID tag for electronic scanning and logging. There are a variety of color alternatives as red, blue and silver.

The seal can only be removed with wire cutters (sold separately). They are made from tamper evident transparent material. SAN resin and polypropylene (PP) body with chrome plate steel hasp.

Use for: plastic distribution boxes, vehicle doors and warehouse bonded store doors

High security seal

“H” class seals are constructed and manufactured of material such as metal or metal cable with the intent to delay intrusion. They can generally be removed with substantial bolt cutters or cable cutters.

Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) is part of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) cargo enforcement strategy. This program is used by the CBP  with the trade community to strengthen international supply chains and improve U.S. border security. CTPAT is solely a voluntary partnership program that recognizes that CBP can provide the highest level of cargo security only through close cooperation with stakeholders in the international supply chain. This includes importers, carriers, consolidators, licensed customs brokers, and manufacturers. CTPAT requires ISO 17712 “H” class seals. 

Cable seals – metal body

Used worldwide to secure goods during import and export. These seals can secure goods for long periods of time. The non-preformed cable unravels when cut to prevent tampering. The steel cable can only be removed using a tool. Non-preformed galvanized steel aircraft cable with aluminum body. Compliant with ISO17712:2023 and CTPAT with cable diameters of 3.5mm and above. Available in blue, red, bronze and black.

Use for: Shipping containers, cargo containers, rail freights, plastic distribution boxes, petrochemical valves, trucks and trailers

Bolt seals

The insert and pin head keep the seal engaged on the application’s latch when the plastic cover is intentionally or accidentally removed. It has limited 180-degree rotation when engaged. These tamper evident seals prevent high-speed spinning attacks on the barrel. The bolt seal also features a label attachment.

Range includes different options, including coated and uncoated pins. The coated pin has an additional layer of paint that gives it an extra layer of protection from chips and damage. The bolt seal barrel is made from high-quality ABS material, giving it good impact resistance while also indicating evidence of tampering.

ISO 17712:2013 (coated pin option only) and CTPAT compliant.

Use for: Shipping containers, cargo containers, trucks, trailer vehicle doors and rail freights

Do seals really help?

Tamper-proof seals do not exist – remember, these are not locks. Tamper evident seals deter tampering, which makes them incredibly valuable for communicating the integrity and/or safety of your package. A tamper-evident seal on a container means that it is being monitored. This in turn gives customers confidence in what they’re buying. Without that sense of security that a seal inspection provides, customers would look elsewhere for their needs. 

xtnbk are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.

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Sustainable Tamper Evident Security Seal

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If you’re factoring sustainability into your choice, consider our all-metal cable seals. Metals should never be considered waste at the end of a product’s life. They’re a valuable resource – metals can be 100% recycled without degradation. Consider, too, our greener alternative in plastic. Essentra Components are also producing a range of security seals made from 45% recycled plastic. 

Download free CADs and try before you buy

Free CADs are available for most solutions, which you can download. Free samples are also typically available to make sure you’ve chosen exactly what you need. 

If you’re not quite sure which premium tamper evident seal will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you.

Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast dispatch. Request your free samples or download free CADs now.

Questions?

Email us at sales@essentracomponents.com speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 800-847-0486.

What is the proper way to replace a Statim 2000 Cassette Seal?

 

We want to show you that replacing a Statim 2000 Cassette Seal is actually quite simple. And while we are here also want to explain the proper replacement technique for speed, simplicity, and especially safety.

 

How often should you replace your Statim 2000 Cassette Seal?

Scican states that the cassette seal should be replaced every 500 cycles and/or 6 months whichever comes first. This is actually one of the main preventive maintenance points for all Statims.

 

Purchasing a replacement seal.

Whenever possible you should always buy the manufacturers OEM seals. Aftermarket replacement seals do work but they are not the same quality, and they need to be replaced more often. They can also cause leakage and other issues which can lead to even more problems.

 

Removing the old seal.

It’s very easy to uninstall the old Statim 2000 seal. All you need is some sort of flat-tipped tool (like a screwdriver) to pry the seal out. You start by taking your tool and sticking it between the metal and seal. Next, you kind of wedge it down in-between the metal and seal and start pulling the seal out. And finally, from there, you can pull and remove the seal completely out of the lid.

 

Checking the condition of the Statim 2000 cassette lid.

While you have the seal out it is important to look at all of the edges and surfaces where the seal sits. You want to look for any debris, rust, or issues that may cause the seal to not seat properly.

 

Properly inserting the Statim 2000 Cassette Seal.

When you open the seal kit package you will see a little lube kit inside. Start by opening the lube and putting about a quarter size drop in the center of the cassette lid. Next, put some on your finger and lubricate the seal all the way around. Make it a good generous amount of lubrication on the seal.

 

You start by aiming one end of the seal towards the back of the cassette lid and start in the corners. You take the first block on the seal and place it directly in the corner. When the first one’s done you place the second one in its corner the same way. When both are in you your fingers and press the seal into the groove from the center out towards the corners. This smooths and completely seats the seal in its proper position. You can look at the back and see that it’s set incorrectly.

 

Next step you go to the third corner and put it in its corner. Again take your thumbs and press it in from the center out. To finish you just go to the last corner and follow the same steps again.

 

After you have completed inserting the seal take some of the lube on your finger and rub it around the inside edge of the seal. This way you can make sure everything is flush and fitting properly.

 

Final steps for replacing a Statim 2000 Cassette Seal.

 

As you finish you should visually inspect all around and make sure there are no kinks or twists in the seal. Finally, you spread out any remaining lube and replace the lid on the cassette.

 

If you would like to watch a video on properly replacing a Statim 2000 Cassette Seal We Have One For You Here!

 

If you have any questions please feel free to email us at sterilizerrepair@yahoo.com

Give us a call at 704-966-1650 or visit us online at https://statimusa.com/

 

Scican Recommended Statim Preventive Maintenance Schedule:

YOU SHOULD REPLACE THE FOLLOWING PARTS EVERY 6 MONTHS OR 500 CYCLES.   Replacing these will save you from very costly repairs down the line!

[1] Cassette seal

[2] Biological Filter

[3] Air Filter

[4] Check Valve

 

Below you can find any of the parts mentioned in this article. And remember there is ALWAYS FREE SHIPPING!

Cassette Seal for Statim 2000: https://statimusa.com/product/new-scican-statim-2000-cassette-seal-and-lube-kit-oem-01-100028s/

Cassette Seal for Statim 2000 G4: https://statimusa.com/product/new-scican-statim-2000-cassette-seal-and-lube-kit-oem-01-100028s-copy/

Biological Filter for Statim 2000: https://statimusa.com/product/scican-statim-2000-5000-biological-filter-oem-01-102119s/

Biological Filter for Statim 2000 G4: https://statimusa.com/product/scican-statim-2000-5000-biological-filter-oem-01-102119s/

Air Filter for Statim 2000: https://statimusa.com/product/new-scican-statim-2000-plug-drain-tubing-oem-01-104343s-copy/

Check Valve for Statim 2000: https://statimusa.com/product/new-qty-3-scican-statim-20005000-check-valve-oem-01-101627s-copy-2/

Check Valve for Statim 2000 G4: https://statimusa.com/product/new-qty-3-scican-statim-20005000-check-valve-oem-01-101627s-copy-2/

 

Sign up for the FREE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM here: https://statimusa.com/connect-with-us/

See our National Loaner Program here: https://statimusa.com/repairs-form/

The company is the world’s best cassette seal manufacturer supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.