The case-packing solution for glass perfusion bottles was also provided for the company S.M. Farmaceutici.
(video: FuturaPack)
The company, which is a part of Gampack Group (www.gampackgroup.com), is appreciated worldwide for its ability to create turnkey installations that are tailored to customer requirements: complete conveyor lines moving wrapped products to the equipment used for the transport of the final packages containing the goods, with the addition of packaging machines, robotic palletizers, pallet wrappers and transfer shuttles.
Solution to handle bottles made of PP/PE semi crystalline thermoplastic material for packaging process
FuturaPack has very recently used innovative technology to meet the requirements of GF, a company belonging to the Coesia Group (operating globally in advanced automated machinery, industrial process solutions and precision gears), a leading Parma based company in the supply of quality control systems and automatic machinery for liquid refills to the pharmaceutical industry.
The solution optimised by FuturaPack involves a Beckhoff extended transport system (XTS) for handling bottles made of PP/PE semi-crystalline thermoplastic material for perfusion solutions. Using this motion technology systems, the bottles are grasped at the neck during package preparation operations, without damaging the bottle in the process. The format consists of an automation template on a human machine interface (HMI), which makes it possible to ‘intelligently’ make up a row and stack the layer of bottles to be inserted into a carton.
Motion technology system for the integrated linear drive: the Beckhoff XTS solution
The innovative feature is the advanced Beckhoff XTS solution, which represents the first integrated linear drive system in the world that meets Industry 4.0 criteria. This equipment has completely revolutionised traditional concepts of design and machinery, based on the classic kinematic chain driving machine parts.
The mechatronic XTS kit uses linear motion technology system to guide movement around a process layout, enabling complex, high-speed profiles and controlling every moving element independently, without compromising position accuracy.
The machinery and XTS combine to form one unit where the transport system becomes an integral part, and not a separate element of automation.
Solution for glass perfusion bottles: case packing solution with products to be inserted in wrap cartons
A case-packing solution for glass perfusion bottles was also provided for the company S.M. Farmaceutici in Potenza, which is specialized in the development and manufacture of sterile injectable drug products for over 40 years. These products are to be inserted in wrap cartons, with a cellular structure if necessary, to ensure they are light, but strong and resistant to atmospheric agents. The customer in question is particularly mindful of minimising environmental impact, by using alternative energy sources and innovative technology with low consumption of natural resources. This is the reason for the carton base with a cellular structure that meets green packaging requirements, as it is 100% recyclable and completely environmentally friendly.
Tailor made solution focused on product handling components and packaging materials
In both FuturaPack projects it was essential to understand the industry regulations, which are continually monitored by supervisory bodies, media organisations and government departments. This is based on the introduction of Standard 21 CFR Part 11, requiring the pharmaceutical company to update infrastructure with specific functionality to log product data, production phases (electronic records), and validate all operator’s activities with an electronic signature. The contribution of 15 specialists in the engineering department has therefore been fondamental, with the creation of a technical tailor-made solution for every project, focusing on product handling components and packaging materials.
A key feature is the modularity of the robotic systems implemented by the company, which adapts perfectly to systems specially designed on the basis of production department layouts. The motion technology system used for conveyor, packaging and palletising systems is well-known to FuturaPack. When it is applied to innovative, cutting-edge systems it means customers can rely on the Piacenza company to be their sole supplier for all aspects of their production systems which are often entrusted to different partners.
Info about the Gampack Group
FuturaPack is part of the Gampack Group, the technological partner in the design and development of highly-innovative packaging solutions, on both the Italian and the international market. The Group designs, develops and implements competitive, bespoke end-of-line solutions thanks to ongoing investment in research based on customer requirements, which embraces the frontiers of the Industry 4.0 revolution. The Group is a unique partner specializing in automation for a variety of industries: food&beverage, dairy, healthcare, pharmaceuticals and many others besides.
Technological innovation is at the heart of the mission of Gampack Group, which is strengthened by FuturaPack’s lengthy expertise in the design and development of fully automated end-of-line carton packaging and palletising systems, as well as camera-monitored product handling systems. FuturaPack’s experience in handling of delicate products is done by applying robots and high-speed conveying systems, that provide strategic solutions and a comprehensive cross-departmental service, from the development of an idea to the final solution.
