Smart packaging solutions since 1893: IWK sets sustainable impulses for pharma and cosmetics with premieres at interpack

IWK CABLIblue 870 card-to-card blister system. (Copyright: IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH)

Horizontal carton system IWK CH4. (Copyright: IWK Packaging Technology GmbH)

Full carton blister from IWK made of fiber materials at interpack 2026. Sustainable variety of materials for robust full carton blisters on the fastest card-to-card blister machine. (Copyright: IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH)

Tube Filling Platform IWK FP18 for ultrasonic welding of plastic tubes. (Copyright: IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH)

Flexible pharmaceutical packaging from IWK at interpack 2026, produced on the energy-efficient cartoner platform combined with precise carton positioning and high flexibility. (Copyright: IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH)

Process-safe ultrasound sealing technology at interpack 2026. IWK expands its portfolio of tube sealing in the field of tube filling technology. (Copyright: IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH)

IWK Packaging Technology GmbH presents itself at interpack 2026 in Düsseldorf (Hall 15, Stand C20) with three live-producing machine lines, setting strong impulses in the areas of Smart Manufacturing, Innovative Materials, and Future Skills. As a system provider, IWK showcases the entire process chain from packaging development through secure filling and sealing to shelf-ready solutions with end-of-line technologies. The focus is on flexible, process-safe production solutions and innovative service offerings for the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, as well as non-food and food sectors. Anticipating the megatrend of sustainability, visitors will find solutions with innovative materials at the IWK exhibition stand.

Flexible, Sustainable Pharmaceutical Packaging

In the secondary packaging segment, IWK is showcasing for the first time at interpack the latest generation horizontal cartoner platform. At the leading trade fair, the cartoning system CH 4 injects pens into sturdy carton trays, which are automatically inserted into folding cartons. The folding carton and tray are produced by partner Kartonveredelung Knapp.

The CH platform combines precise carton positioning with high flexibility and energy efficiency: an innovative recuperation system in the servo drive significantly reduces energy consumption by up to 21%. The linear process layout enables quick, reproducible, and tool-free format changes. Thanks to its modular design, the platform is particularly future-oriented and suitable for a wide range of applications in pharma, cosmetics, and non-food sectors.

Process-Safe Ultrasonic Sealing Technology

In the tube filling technology sector, IWK is also setting new standards. Tubes are sealed using ultrasound. This technology offers additional advantages over the traditional hot-air process. By using high-frequency mechanical vibrations, the necessary heat is generated directly in the material, allowing the sealing surfaces to be welded locally and with extreme control. This makes the process energy-efficient. Even with creamy, oily, or pasty fillings, clean, secure, and reproducible seal seams can be produced. Additionally, the ultrasonic unit is quickly available since it does not require heating and cooling of the sealing jaws.

For premium segments such as pharma and cosmetics, flawless seam quality is crucial. Therefore, this technology enhances the qualitative sealing of tubes. Since no external heat is applied, the material and decoration are preserved, resulting in a visually very clean, narrow weld seam – an aesthetic advantage for demanding brand presentations. Furthermore, IWK demonstrates a microdosing solution at this station.

The inventor of the tube filling machine has been synonymous with the highest reliability, hygienic safety according to GMP standards, and impressive performance ranges from 70 to 760 tubes per minute since 1893. Precise chain transports, smooth stainless steel surfaces, and the clear separation of drive and filling area enable fast, clean, and safe filling processes – especially for sensitive pharmaceutical products.

Sustainable Material Variety on the Fastest Blister Machine

A special highlight at the exhibition stand is the Card-to-Card material variation on the CABLIblue 870. The system produces sturdy full cardboard blisters entirely without single-use plastics, addressing key requirements of the new EU Packaging Regulation PPWR.

The blister system demonstrates this future capability precisely: the machine processes four different fiber-based materials from new material, recycling, grass, and silphium, simultaneously in an integrated production and sealing process – a world first. The IWK engineers impressively demonstrate how high-quality full cardboard blisters can be produced efficiently, resource-conserving, and process-stably even under the new legal framework. The cover cards and matching blister lids were provided and manufactured by the packaging specialist Karl Knauer KG. Live, a bamboo toothbrush and a toothpaste tube are being packaged – two products exemplifying the trend toward plastic-free packaging solutions.

Thanks to its modular design, ergonomic stations, and extraordinary material diversity, the CABLIblue 870 not only meets current market needs but also future regulatory requirements regarding recyclability, material minimization, and sustainable packaging design. It is ideally suited for cosmetics, DIY items, medical technology, and pharmaceutical applications – industries where sustainable packaging transitions are particularly dynamic.

With the Card-to-Card technology, IWK positions itself as a forward-thinking design partner that actively develops new solutions rather than merely reacting to market changes. The CABLIblue 870 exemplifies how IWK develops innovative technologies that support companies in transitioning to paper- and fiber-based packaging – making a significant contribution to reducing plastics, complying with future regulations, and establishing a true circular economy.

In addition to numerous trade fair highlights, IWK presents other important topics from its overall portfolio as well as service offerings in maintenance and aftersales. The IWK service relies on global availability, technical expertise, and comprehensive support throughout the entire machine lifecycle. This includes preventive maintenance, quick spare parts supply, process optimization, and a broad training program at the Technical Training Center. The goal is maximum machine availability, secure production processes, and rapid responsiveness – whether by phone, digital means, or on-site.