The Flexicon FCE50L semi-automatic tabletop capping unit from Watson-Marlow Pumps Group features capability designed to simplify and reduce the cost of validating processes at pharmaceutical, cosmetic and contract filling plants.
Also designed to offer automated, precise and electronically recorded capping operations, this innovative machine eliminates manual screw-cap tasks and guesswork, along with the costs associated with conventional, time-consuming validation.
The Flexicon FCE50L logs all applied torques electronically for batch reporting and traceability requirements. In addition, each cap is tightened automatically to a pre-set torque within an accuracy of ±10Ncm.
Such repeatability ensures that there are many knock-on benefits for FCE50L users, such as the elimination of repetitive strain injuries, the prevention of bottle leakage (due to pressure changes) during air transport, and better and longer protection of liquid properties.
Ease-of-use is an integral design feature of FCE50L. For instance, an illuminating start button shows that the required torque has been achieved, while the control unit features a touchscreen for straightforward operator interaction. Format changes between different bottles or caps can be achieved in less than five minutes, thus keeping downtime to an absolute minimum, which Watson-Marlow says is critical in an era dominated by short batch runs.
Ease-of-use is an integral design feature of FCE50L
The standard model (FCE50L) offers a torque range of 50–450Ncm, although an optional FCE25L unit is also available that provides 25–180Ncm.
Delivering optimum flexibility, bottles measuring between 35 and 240mm in height and from 15 to 100mm in diameter can be accommodated. With reference to caps, all those measuring 12–42mm in diameter and 5–40mm in height are capable of being fitted at a maximum rate of approximately 1,000 per hour, depending on the operator.
Recorded data can be quickly and easily exported as CSV files for conversion into Microsoft Excel format with recipe name, bottle number, measured torque in Ncm, time and date.
In conclusion, Watson-Marlow says process validation has never been so easy or inexpensive, with shorter time to market, confident on going validation compliance, and greater profits among the potential benefits.
