Packaging Inspection Machines Use Nondestructive Methods

Bosch Packaging Technology KHS 1 uses laser headspace analysis to inspect containers. Image courtesy of Bosch.

Pharmaceutical inspection machines from Bosch Packaging Technology include the KHS 1, which uses laser headspace analysis (HSA), and the AIM 3, which uses high-voltage leak detection (HVLD), for container closure integrity testing.

The KHS 1 measures the absorbed light passing through the headspace region via laser spectroscopy. HSA is applicable to lyophilized products and medicines filled under vacuum or purged with inert gas. The machine inspects both standing and non-standing containers at outputs of up to 600 per minute and can combine HSA with optional near infrared (NIR) measurement and container coding. A built-in, automatic recalibration is continuously performed using certified reference containers to ensure reliability and accuracy.

The AIM 3 from Bosch Packaging Technology can perform both visual inspection and HVLD for ampoules and vials on one single platform. HVLD detects leaks by measuring the electrical resistance of containers with conductive solutions. The machine inspects ampoules and vials containing solutions and suspensions at outputs of up to 400 containers per minute. To sort out damaged containers before they enter the main inspection turret, the AIM 3 is equipped with a preinspection station. The core module uses a high-resolution camera with high-speed interface for particle and cosmetic inspection, as well as a reinspection function. The customizable platform can be retrofitted on-site to add further visual inspection stations or the HVLD module. The latter delivers equivalent measurement results for all glass qualities, such as molded and tubing, as well as clear and amber glass. Both inspection steps are controlled using one common human machine interface.

Source: Bosch Packaging Technology