Mettler-Toledo Product Inspection has launched an x-ray inspection system, the X34C, designed specifically for the detection of contaminants in pharmaceutical blister packs and sachets at high-speed.
The system measures 700 mm in length, including an integrated reject. It can operate at 120 metres per minute, making it possible to align product inspection with the high-speed flow-wrapping machines and pack sealers used in the pharmaceutical sector for packing individual products.
The device's 0.4 mm diode detector and 100 W power generator are designed to maximise the probability of detecting small contaminants and help reduce the false reject rate. The power and contrast levels of these components are automatically adjusted for each application, meaning the system does not always need to run at its full 100W output.
The X34C shares many features with other models in the company's range of x-ray systems, such as its operating software, including ContamPlus, which is used by both the standard X34 and X36 systems. Automated product set-up reduces the need for operator training, the company says, while increasing production up-time and product safety.
In addition, the X34C can be connected to the company's ProdX data management software to support supply chain digitalisation, compliance with 21CFR Part 11 and traceability.
On the hardware side, the device can be configured to meet customer requirements, including with an airblast reject system to remove contaminated products at high speed.It is rated at IP55 as standard for ingress protection, with IP65 also available for manufacturing environments which require a higher level of dust protection. Customers with cooler ambient factory temperatures (less than 30 degrees Celsius) can choose active cooling through a fan system, which can improve the environmental performance of the system.
“We are expecting that pharma manufacturers who are typically hard-pushed to fit new equipment into existing lines will love the small footprint of the X34C. It means they can benefit from outstanding levels of contaminant detection and productivity without too much disruption to their operation. Companies can feel confident that their brands are protected due to the X34C simultaneously completing comprehensive product and packaging quality checks,” said Mike Pipe, Head of Global Sales & Product Management, Mettler-Toledo Product Inspection.
“For many manufacturers, the high-speed inspection that the X34C gives them provides multiple benefits, as it allows them to inspect and reject single products straight after they exit the flow-wrapper or sealer. This not only reduces waste, because single items rather than multi-packs can be rejected, but it also allows the manufacturer to maintain high levels of productivity at this critical point of the production line.”