Almac, a global service provider, has expanded its MHRA/FDA approved U.K. commercial packaging facility with the acquisition of a state-of-the-art Noack N 623 blister packaging line from Romaco.

The acquisition comes in response to growing client demand for enhanced flexibility related to larger blister sizes and innovative multi-unit blister formats, coupled to a requirement for non-permeability and enhanced environmental protection, particularly product humidity control.

This highly flexible, cGMP compliant technology can be configured to process both thermoform and coldform materials, with maximum blister sizes of 220mm x 155mm. With its automatic feeding system, filling inspection and ejection station and shorter set-up times, the line provides increased productivity, processing over 25,000 blisters per hour, including multi-product blisters.

“Blister size and dosage formats are becoming increasingly more complex. Additionally, product handling for innovative new molecules often requires enhanced environmental controls. This investment allows Almac, through its pharma services business unit, to offer this additional flexibility,” said Geoff Sloan, vice president of manufacturing operations, Almac. “Through this acquisition, coupled with our immanent entry into the U.S. commercial packaging market, we continue to expand our capabilities and flexibility to meet our client’s needs.”

Bernd Webel, sales director of Romaco, added, “The blister technology from Romaco Noack offers high OEE values and low lifecycle costs. Product changeovers are carried out easily and cleaning is quickly done. Our machines prove themselves flexible in operation and versatile in use.”