Antares Vision, a global provider of visual inspection systems, track & trace and data management solutions, has developed a new Raised Stopper Inspection (RSI) machine to verify proper sealing of freeze-dried vials. The RSI functions as a standalone machine and is designed for installation in A-Grade-A cleanrooms and operates via laminar air flow (LAF).

It has an overall length of 76cm and can be installed in existing lines. To identify stoppers not wholly adhered to the vial collar, the machine features a 1mm detection threshold and can inspect up to 300 units/min. The module is compatible with an array of vials, spanning from 10-300ml with a 20-32mm cap range.

Lyophilization allows for long-term storage and enhanced protection from pollution. Lyophilized drugs preserve the original product features, can be stored easily, and can be rapidly reconstituted for patient use. Last year, Antares Vision introduced LYO-CHECK, a dedicated solution for inspecting such medicines.

“Such comprehensive inspection is increasingly important to ensure quality assurance for freeze-dried vials, especially with the uptick in highly potent pharmaceutical products,” said Andrew Pietrangelo, president, North America for Antares Vision. “The RSI machine represents a drop-in solution into existing lines that promotes the highest level of production safety and medicine efficacy.”