Almac has acquired a high-speed blister line from Uhlmann Packaging Systems for its new 100,000-sq.-ft. U.S. commercial packaging facility in Audubon, PA.

The Uhlmann UPS 4 blister line will process solid oral dose products, providing primary packaging into a range of materials including PVC, PVC/PVDC, Aclar and Alu/Alu. Complete with an integrated C2206 cartoner, the line “will provide a highly efficient packaging solution with an output of up to 12,000 blisters per hour in a wide range of blister sizes,” according to an Almac statement.

The line is capable of both multi-product blister processing and online blister printing (both flexographic and digital) addressing the need for enhanced patient compliance, whilst ensuring flexibility of supply. The line will include a Total Quality Control Centre (TQCC) incorporating a checkweigher and integrated print and vision system for auto-rejection of incorrect print / serialization data including 2D codes.

The blister line will complement the full suite of commercial packaging equipment already installed in the new Audubon facility. Additional technologies include bottling, walleting and vial labelling/packaging.

Geoff Sloan, vice president Manufacturing Operations, said, “Uhlmann were able to provide us with a versatile, high-spec blistering line to match our U.S. client requirements for a high quality, flexible commercial packaging solution.”

Ralf Klotz, regional sales manager at Uhlmann, added, “the construction and installation of this equipment proved to be a great project. We are looking forward to a long-term partnership with Almac as their U.S. Operations continues to grow. The flexibility of this equipment certainly puts Almac in a position as a leader in contract blister packaging.”