Machine Fills and Seals Pharmaceutical Powders in Glass Vials

AFG 5000. Image courtesy of Bosch

Bosch Packaging Technology’s AFG 5000 filling and closing machine for pharmaceutical powders in glass vials is available in several different versions with various features. Based on a single machine platform, the system can accurately fill both large and small amounts of powder. Options include one filling point for an output of 160 containers per minute up to three filling points for up to 480 vials per minute. Due to the vacuum-compressed-air filling system, the output remains high even with small filling amounts. Either statistical or 100% in-process control of dosing weights can be selected.

The new, flexible vertical transport system adjusts the speed to accommodate the individual work stations of filling, weighing, or closing of vials, preventing idle time or bottlenecks. Rotating carrier systems, known as shuttles, transfer the vials to the respective work station. Once the vials have been sealed and taken out of the system, the shuttles return to the infeed, ready for the next transport run.

The machine has a compact design to save space in class B cleanrooms where it is typically used. Apart from the vertical design, the separation of the compact filling station from the intake and output reduces the amount of space that must be cooled and cleaned with sterile, dry air. A further space-saving feature is the optional air-treatment system, which can be installed outside the sterile area.

All components that come into contact with the product can easily be disassembled for cleaning and sterilization. The machine can be combined with upstream cleaning machines and sterilizing tunnels, as well as downstream capping equipment to create a complete line for filling pharmaceutical powders.

Source: Bosch