Control from the Top

With complete process control in mind, Sigpack Systems, a Bosch Packaging Technology (Switzerland) company, has introduced its Pharma Toploader for combining pharmaceutical vials, syringes, and needle holders with product literature in boxes. Using bar-code verification and camera systems, the system checks packages at each process step for any incomplete or damaged contents. A simple tool change enables it to switch to a different set of products.

“Faulty items are immediately separated out without any disruption to the packaging process,” explains Rene Kummer, sales support manager, Sigpack Systems, Bosch Packaging Technology. “Rejected and misplaced products are dropped into drawers and can therefore be easily documented. This is a stringent requirement, especially for expensive or toxic pharmaceuticals. Users can be sure that no products are left in the system and that all packaged contents are fully accurate and undamaged.”

This new toploader has two distinctive features, says Kummer: its compact size and its box handling. “The machine’s compact build means that it can be positioned in locations where space is limited. Our rotary box transportation system allows for a very compact and space-saving construction. As a result, users achieve optimum utilization of their production areas and are able to reduce the overall running costs of the installation.”

Sigpack has made significant improvements to the box transportation unit,” Kummer adds. “During packaging, the boxes are held in position at the transportation support by innovative vacuum technology.” Because the vacuum system can handle various packaging formats, custom-made mechanical holders or special tools are no longer needed. The system can be changed over quickly to suit different packaging styles.
A modular design eases retrofitting easy. “The base module incorporates all elementary functions,” Kummer says. “Depending on requirements additional modules may be installed, which means that the toploader can be expanded if and when required.”

The Pharma Toploader reaches speeds of up to 230 boxes per minute. “Thanks to our rotary system, the flow of products and packaging material is coordinated with the machine's operation in the most effective manner, providing a link to upstream processes and at the same time, saving space,” Kumer says. “We believe our toploader is also faster and more efficient than comparable machines on the market.”

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