Sigpack Systems recently introduced a compact, high-speed packaging system to the fast growing market of stick pack solutions that meets the needs of a variety of pharmaceutical and food applications while lowering material costs. Complementing the established flat pouch packaging systems, this stick pack solution is ideal for packaging non-sterile pharmaceutical powders, granules, pellets or piece goods, such as mini-tablets or sweets. The fully modular system fulfils the exacting requirements of the industry for tightness, weight accuracy, output and efficiency.
Holger Botsch
The modular, multilane stick pack system guarantees maximum reliability and is supplied with an integrated intermittent cartoner. With up to 100 cycles per minute, this Siemens S7-400-controlled system delivers 1,000 stick packs in each 60-second period, regardless of whether a patented auger or tipping filler is used. The intermittent cartoner is capable of handling up to 100 cartons per minute.
In addition to the system solution, Sigpack Systems also offers a 1-to-4 lane platform with an output of 100 to 400 packages per minute; this flexible solution, which is based on the same control and design philosophy, complies very closely with the needs of co-packers and can also be used in pilot plants or for product launches.
The system monitors product flow continuously, ensuring ergonomic machine operation, which is further simplified by a PLC and a 12” touch panel that displays all production parameters and statistics. This information can then be analysed individually with the help of an optional management information system.
Compliance with GMP guidelines
The machine is easy to clean and maintain as well as compliant with GMP guidelines, providing end users with a system that is simple to validate. The rugged design ensures efficient and reliable multi-shift operation, while the wide range of options enhances flexibility. Various solutions are available for multilane coding (e.g. thermal transfer, laser, inkjet), weight control and leaflet insertion. The system’s conformity with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 is further evidence of its ability to ensure a transparent and safe packaging process.
A tipping filler is used for free-flowing products like granules or pellets. This volumetric technology works with up to 100 cycles per minute, guarantees gentle prod-uct handling and facilitates exceptional weight accuracy – even with small volumes. Auger fillers are a good alternative for fine powders, for example: the individual AC servo-driven augers operate with up to 100 cycles/min and are extremely flexible, especially when challenging products are involved. If required, gas flushing or cooling can be implemented with both dosing technologies.
The performance of the easy-to-clean and readily accessible, swivel-mounted dosing module is controlled by means of a validated in-line weight control system that adapts perfectly to product or density variations: each pouch is check weighed and if necessary rejected via a dump gate. A control circuit reacts quickly to changes in volume. Either auger or tipping fillers can used and a reliable process is assured. Piece goods like mini-tablets or sweets are packed by individual infeed, counting and weighing units.
The RA stick pack machine can be used for either fin seals or overlapping longitudinal seals, while the cross seam can be chequered or flat. This machine handles all current types of heat-sealing film, and the servo drive technology ensures exact movements and optimum seal integrity. Modified versions with an easy-opening feature are also available and secondary packaging material is economised. Various options such as leaflet insertion from a stack or reel are offered within the KG4. The stick packs can be arranged in the carton in one or two layers (from the sleeve), or randomly filled – in which case a top-loading solution with carton erectors and closers also made by Sigpack Systems is used.
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Achema 2006
FachPack 2006
Stick pack machines from Sigpack
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