Automation in the pharmaceutical industry: Strive for efficiency and cost reduction
The pharmaceutical industry is renowned for its high standards and strict regulations. At the same time, companies in this sector face challenges such as high operational costs, increasing demand for efficiency, and the necessity to comply with traceability requirements like aggregation and serialization.
We understand these challenges. With our expertise in automation, GMP-training, and experience in the pharmaceutical world, we offer tailored solutions. Read on to discover how automation can transform your pharmaceutical processes.
Why automate in the pharmaceutical sector?
The pharmaceutical sector demands precision, quality, and speed. Automation helps achieve these goals while reducing costs. Key Benefits:
- Lower operational costs: Automation replaces repetitive, manual tasks and increases efficiency.
- Ensures quality: Smart cameras and vision systems perform error-free and consistent quality checks.
- Works faster: Delta robots can process up to 200 syringes per minute.
- Meets traceability requirements: Aggregation and serialization can be seamlessly integrated into your processes.
What are opportunities in the pharmaceutical sector?
Automation can be applied across various processes, but packaging and inspection processes offer the most potential.
Opportunity 1: Automatic filling and packaging of boxes
Manually filling boxes is time-consuming and error-prone. Our automation solutions allow for automatic filling of boxes and grouping of packages for shipping.
Example:
For a client in the pharmaceutical sector, we implemented systems to automatically fill boxes with medications and label them with aggregation codes. This not only increased speed but also enhanced traceability.
Opportunity 2: Automatically placing syringes in trays
Manually placing syringes into trays is a labor-intensive task. Automation provides a faster and more reliable solution.
Example:
For a client, we developed a system using delta robots capable of precisely placing 200 syringes per minute into trays. This process is error-free and meets the highest quality standards.
Opportunity 3: Smart quality control with vision systems
Cognex vision systems automate essential quality controls such as:
- Verifying that caps are properly placed on vials.
- Inspecting printed data, such as expiration dates and batch codes.
- Detecting defects or anomalies in packaging.
Example:
A pharmaceutical company used our vision systems to automatically check if caps were correctly placed. The result? Fewer errors and a more efficient process.
Opportunity 4: High-speed processing with delta robots
For tasks requiring speed, such as packaging ampoules or tablets, delta robots are ideal. These robots perform up to 200 picks per minute without sacrificing precision.
Example:
A client used delta robots to package ampoules, increasing their production line speed by 50% while maintaining consistency.
Opportunity 5: Integrating aggregation and serialization
Traceability is essential in the pharmaceutical industry. We seamlessly integrate aggregation and serialization into your production process, ensuring that every product and package is traceable down to the batch level.
Example:
A client implemented our aggregation and serialization system to comply with international regulations. Thanks to our solution, their entire production chain became traceable.
Opportunity 6: Flexibility with cobots
Cobots (collaborative robots) are ideal for production environments where space and collaboration are key. They can be easily moved between lines and safely work alongside operators.
Example:
A client used our Cofiller to perform multiple tasks, from filling vials to assisting operators with complex operations. Thanks to the cobot’s mobility and flexibility, it was easily deployed across various production lines.
Why choose Promation for your automation needs?
At Promation, we combine standard solutions with creative customization. Our clients especially value our experience and innovative approach, enabling us to automate even the most complex challenges with simplicity.
And our clients? They’re satisfied!
"Promation devised a solution for a challenge we thought was impossible. Their expertise and creativity make a real difference in our processes."
With our expertise in GMP standards and automation, we develop systems that perfectly fit your needs, including traceability through aggregation and serialization.
How to get started with automation?
Many pharmaceutical companies are unsure where to begin. Start small with processes like quality control or packaging.
At Promation, we offer a free analysis to identify opportunities in your production process. With our ROI configurator, you can instantly calculate which automation solution fits your company and how quickly your investment will pay off.
Written by Stijn Provoost
Founder of Promation. Passionate about programming and new technologies. With Promation, Stijn has one major goal: to improve production processes through industrial automation, robotics, and vision systems.
Automation in the pharmaceutical industry is essential
Automation not only helps pharmaceutical companies work more efficiently but also ensures compliance with strict regulations and high-quality standards. With cobots, delta robots, and vision systems, Promation provides solutions that transform your processes.
Whether you choose standard solutions or custom designs, we ensure your production process becomes more efficient, safer, and more reliable.