More process safety in the packaging of healthcare and life science products

Photo T 260

At the Compamed, which takes place from November 20 to 22, 2013, in Düsseldorf, Multivac will showcase several packaging solutions that further improve process safety in the packaging of healthcare and life science products. These include a thermoforming packaging machine for fully automatic, GMP-compliant packaging in large and small batch sizes, a folding carton labeler, the Traysealer T 260, as well as the C 400 TC, a special chamber machine with temperature-controlled sealing bar.

"High process safety in packaging is an essential component for achieving high quality in the manufacturing of healthcare and life science products. Our packaging and labeling solutions, tailored to the requirements of this industry, support processors in secure line clearance, quick and easy batch changes, as well as product tamper evidence and process traceability. Additionally, our machines ensure simple and safe operation," says Verena Weiß, Product Manager MCP (Medical, Cosmetics, and Pharmaceutical Products) at Multivac.

High reliability, reproducible format changes

For the thermoforming packaging machine showcased by the company at Compamed, the machine concept has been optimized for safe line clearance. Process and technical rooms are largely separated. All installation units, including hoses, cables, and valves, have been moved from the interior of the machine to the back side. This reduces the risk of products getting stuck inside the machine during the packaging process, which could cause the machine to stop.

Furthermore, the front of the packaging machine is covered with a transparent polycarbonate front. The large doors can be easily opened. This design feature makes the machine well visible and accessible for operating personnel.

For frequent, reproducible, and quick format changes, Multivac’s proven drawer system, which has been expanded with complete cut tools typically used for separating sealed packages of medical devices, ensures high flexibility in packaging different products in batches of various sizes.

Tamper-evident packaging for pharmaceuticals

Labeling specialist Multivac Marking & Inspection will present a folding carton labeler at Compamed that seals the insertion tabs of folding cartons with a label. This equips the packages with an authenticity safeguard. At the same time, the label serves as an opening protection for medication packages.

Using an integrated printing system within the folding carton labeler, a Data Matrix code for serialization can also be printed onto the insertion tab. This process is used in many countries to protect against product piracy.

Traceability and documentation

The Traysealer T 260 ensures infinitely adjustable and thus highly precise packaging processes. The semi-automatic tray sealer also allows a complete overview of the entire process and traceability of individual process steps during packaging.

Using the example of the C 400 TC, a special chamber machine with temperature-controlled sealing bar for medical sterile goods, the company presents a solution for traceability and seamless documentation of the packaging process using barcodes and RFID chips.