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The syringes are delivered to the rod insertion and labeling machine from the filling line and a plunger is inserted. This is performed by gently inserting the rod into the plunger without moving it. With the new integrated backstop assembly, an additional backstop can be automatically attached to the syringe flange. Backstops are used to protect the plunger from being pulled out of the barrel, for instance during retraction, and to improve syringe handling during administration. The backstop assembly station substantially improves the handling of syringes and ensures increased safety for the end-user.
Addition to well-proven RIL series
The RIL series consists of integrated systems for the insertion of plunger rods into syringes and precise application of labels. Like all RIL machines, the new RIL 3060B complies with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and guarantees high process safety while requiring only minimal configuration. A segmentation wheel allows a continuous flow of syringes and achieves increased production capacity. Total torque control enables precise screwing of the rods into the plungers, ensuring the product’s sterility during the entire handling process. The plunger rod is gently guided into the plunger by a pressure-controlled air cylinder. Horizontal syringe transport ensures very gentle product handling. No adjustments are required for format changeovers.
The system also detects the presence of preprinted labels which are precisely attached to the syringes. Syringes that are labeled correctly continue down the line for further handling, while syringes with incompletely or possibly incorrectly printed labels are rejected. For comprehensive quality assurance, the rod inserter and labeler features a number of controls, including checks on proper rod placement and tip-cap presence. The RIL 3060B offers many further options, such as a general reject or dedicated reject stations to classify and trace different fault types. Further options include locking doors, integrated in-process control, and additional format sets for an even higher handling flexibility. Label dispensers with conventional printers or laser printing facilities can also be included for online coding of labels. To avoid unnecessary waste, a defective label detection and rejection system can optionally be installed.
The new feature further enhances Bosch’s extensive portfolio for the handling and processing of syringes. All processes of the new system are performed on the same machine. The new integrated backstop assembly only requires the addition of a small bowl feeder to the existing layout. Even though a further step is added to the process, the line speed is not slowed down. On the contrary: the new RIL 3060B handles up to 300 syringes per minute with six mounting stations. It can process a range of syringe formats from 0.5 up to 20 milliliters, with a maximum length of 150 millimeters. All existing RIL 300 machines can be retrofitted with the new backstop assembly station which can also be flexibly integrated into existing filling and packaging lines.
