User-friendly software
Software solutions that collect data along the pharmaceutical supply chain also promise more security. With the Pexcite software platform from Uhlmann Pac-Systeme, users can collect, collate, display and analyse information from all areas of the production and packaging process and thus realise different tasks as required: Implementation of track & trace specifications along the entire process chain, monitoring of the productivity of machines and processes, digital tool management or centralised control and management of the entire production processes. The platform can be used across all digital devices in use, such as desktop devices, tablets and smartphones. "Visually appealing design, the light, friendly look and feel means above all complexity reduction for the users who use Pexcite. People have to enjoy working with our product and not be afraid of doing anything wrong or breaking anything", says Thomas Kreutle, Director Development & Operations Digital Solutions at Uhlmann Pac-Systeme. For this, the software platform received a Red Dot Award 2022.
Sustainable pharmaceutical packaging
The pharmaceutical industry is still reluctant to use recyclable materials. However, consumers today also expect more commitment to sustainability from this industry. Pharmaceutical packaging manufacturers are already one step ahead and have already developed numerous recyclable solutions for the primary and secondary packaging of medications. Last year, for example, the presentation of a recyclable paper blister caused a sensation and a recyclable monomaterial barrier tube in pharmaceutical quality was awarded a packaging award. Recently, a tubular film made from the bio-based polymer PLA was launched on the market that is industrially compostable and can be used as a sterile barrier system for diagnostic flow-pack applications.
In the area of primary packaging, i.e. where medications are packed directly, it will probably take some time before recyclable monomaterials become established. In contrast, experts already see a trend towards recyclable solutions in secondary packaging. Körber Pharma GmbH, for example, has developed secondary packaging made from grass paper as an alternative to packaging made from recycled paper and cardboard and was awarded the Pharmapack Sustainability Initiative Award 2022 for this. In the production of grass paper, half of the cellulose is replaced by grass fibres, using significantly less water and energy. The almost unlimited regional availability of grass shortens transport routes, saving almost 95 percent of CO2 emissions. Körber Pharma has already carried out test and development projects with several pharmaceutical companies for safe secondary packaging made of grass cardboard, which prove that the costs for the new packaging material are equivalent to those of conventional cardboard, while the material offers the same high level of product protection.
The trade fair interpack in Düsseldorf will show what other modern solutions the industry has in store. From 4 to 10 May 2023, trade fair visitors will be able to find out about innovative packaging and process developments for the pharmaceutical industry, especially in Halls 15 to 17. Further information on interpack is available at www.interpack.com .
Caption for images:
1) With the Pexcite software platform, users can collect, present and analyse information from all areas of the production and packaging process.
Copyright: Uhlmann Pac-Systeme
2) The Linx 8900 inkjet printer from Bluhm marks plastic containers.
Copyright: Bluhm Systeme
3) Interlinking machines offers advantages for the efficiency and safety of production processes.Copyright: Rotzinger
4) A six-axis robot erects cardboard inlays.
Copyright: R. Weiss
5) The Domino U510 UV marking laser does not rely on laser activating pigments/additives or specially prepared coding fields thanks to a photochemical reaction. Copyright: Domino
6) The system by Uhlmann makes it possible to switch from classic PVC blisters to more sustainable mono-material packaging made of PE.
Copyright: Uhlmann
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Copyright: i_viewfinder stock.adobe.com 200329943