Bosch Packaging Technology, a leading supplier of process and packaging technology, will showcase the most recent version of the fully automated FLT vial filling and closing machine at Pharma Expo 2016. For the first time, the machine will be shown with an isolator. Due to its small size and flexibility, the FLT is an ideal solution for R&D and small batch filling.
Moreover, Bosch exhibits a broad range of technologies for the filling of liquid and solid pharmaceuticals that can be easily combined and integrated into line concepts. Comprehensive after-sales services round off Bosch’s portfolio.
The Bosch FLT vial filler is designed as a platform for clinical trials and low volume production. “Pharmaceutical manufacturers are increasingly moving away from conventional cleanroom technology and use isolators for the production of drugs to achieve maximum process safety,” says Jochen Maier, sales support supervisor at Bosch Packaging Technology. “By combining the FLT vial filler with an isolator system, we provide a complete solution that ensures an improved aseptic environment. The isolator separates the filling process from the surrounding area. Operators and products are optimally protected.”
Built with a linear walking beam transport system, which allows for a small footprint, the machine achieves high efficiency, operates smoothly, and requires minimal size parts. Customers also benefit from easy set-up and short changeover times. Infeed options include provisions for pre-sterilized vials, a hydrogen peroxide transfer chamber, as well as the integration of a depyrogenation tunnel.
At the same time, the platform meets different filling needs. It handles containers ranging from 2 to 100 milliliters and processes up to 30 vials per minute. Filling, stoppering and capping of both 13 and 20 millimeter components with one sorting device is possible. A 100 percent checkweigh function accounts for automated dose weight verification. All vials that do not comply with the defined fill range are rejected. Optional features include programming to maximize product yield as well as pre- and post-gassing of vials for oxygen reduction.
The machine is fully enclosed in an isolator that features double walls to provide both product and process protection. An integrated Bosch evaporation system for hydrogen peroxide decontamination automatically sanitizes the isolator chamber, ensuring the continuous and long-term operation of the machine. Process air handling (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) equipment can either be integrated on top of the isolator or at a remote location. In addition, the FLT vial filler can also be combined with RABS, as well as with a variety of machines as part of a complete vial process line. As a single source supplier, Bosch offers solutions for every process step from product formulation and filling to sterilization and inspection.
Bosch will also showcase parts of its comprehensive portfolio for solid pharmaceuticals, from process technology, tablet pressing and capsule filling equipment to secondary packaging, serialization and aggregation solutions. For the first time in the US, Bosch exhibits the capsule filling platform GKF 2600. At an output of 156,000 capsules per hour, the modular machine features high speed, flexibility and dosing accuracy. Further, visitors can take a look at the Bosch TPR 500 tablet press with Allen Bradley controls. The machine can produce more than 400,000 capsules per hour, significantly reducing process and production time. Solid lines can be combined with inspection and secondary packaging machines. The exhibited CPS 0800 prints and verifies up to 400 cartons per minute, providing a flexible solution to serialization requirements of the industry.
A comprehensive after-sales services portfolio further adds to Bosch’s pharmaceutical line competence. For instance, the experts from Bosch Packaging Services offer tablet tooling inspection and reconditioning services in cooperation with a partner company specializing in tablet press products and services.
To support customers in determining the ideal dosing disk height for any product filled on Bosch’s GKF capsule filling machines, Bosch will further exhibit a digital slug tester. It is especially suited for the research and development phase of new products. The services portfolio is completed by the Bosch Packaging Academy, a worldwide training platform that offers customers a comprehensive seminar pool for the safe and efficient use of Bosch machinery.
Bosch’s technologies are on display at Pharma Expo 2016 in Chicago/IL from November 6 to 9 at booth W-603, West Hall.