GKF HiProTect Capsule Filler from Bosch Receives Highest Possible Containment Rating Validated by SMEPAC Test
o OEL/OEB 5 classification ensures maximum operator protection
o Safe filling of powder, tablets, pellets, liquids and combinations
o Contamination levels under 0.05 micrograms of product dust per cubic meter
Bosch Packaging Technology announces the results of a Standardized Measurement of Equipment Particulate Airborne Concentration (SMEPAC) test for its GKF 1700 HiProTect containment capsule filling system. The test confirmed that the containment capsule filling system meets the highest classification level, Level 5, of Occupational Exposure Limit/Band (OEL/OEB), especially important due to the unique challenges that highly potent APIs pose for pharmaceutical manufacturers.
During the three test runs, the high-tech capsule filler was found to allow contamination of fewer than 0.05 micrograms of product dust per cubic meter. The tests took place at the facilities of Excella, a provider of contract manufacturing services for home care, industrial, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food companies. During the trials, four sensors were placed in different points within the containment suite to measure product dust contamination and validate the level of protection.
The latest industry regulations demand maximum protection for operators while at the same time filling substances are getting more potent than ever. The GKF 1700 HiProTect containment capsule filling machine processes powder, tablets, pellets, liquids and combinations and meets the growing need of pharmaceutical researchers and manufacturers for a highly efficient containment solution.
"The OEL/OEB 5 classification for the GKF HiProTect testifies not only that Bosch has the safest and most reliable containment capsule filler in the market, it also demonstrates that our customers are equipped for future demands," said Tom McDaniel, President of Bosch Packaging Technology in Minneapolis. The design of the GKF HiProTect prevents contact between the operator and potent substances, eliminating the need for expensive and awkward air suits, masks and other safety equipment.
The rapid growth in biopharmaceuticals, anti-virals, large molecule oncology drugs, hormonal therapies, and cytotoxic applications require stringent containment of processing operations, both to protect operators as well as to maintain an aseptic production environment.
About Bosch Packaging Technology
Bosch Packaging Technology, based in Waiblingen (Germany), is one of the leading suppliers for holistic systems for packaging and process technology. In 16 countries worldwide the company develops, produces and distributes modules and systems for the pharmaceutical, confectionery, and cosmetics industries, as well as other food and non-food industries. In 2009, 4,800 associates achieved a turnover of approximately 702 million euros. For more information, please visit www.boschpackaging.com.
The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. According to preliminary figures, some 270,000 associates generated sales of roughly 38 billion euros in the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology in fiscal 2009. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 300 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. Each year, Bosch spends more than 3.5 billion euros for research and development, and applies for over 3,000 patents worldwide. With all its products and services, Bosch enhances the quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial.
The company was set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as "Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering." The special ownership structure of Robert Bosch GmbH guarantees the entrepreneurial freedom of the Bosch Group, making it possible for the company to plan over the long term and to undertake significant up-front investments in the safeguarding of its future. Ninety-two percent of the share capital of Robert Bosch GmbH is held by Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH, a charitable foundation. The majority of voting rights are held by Robert Bosch Industrietreuhand KG, an industrial trust. The entrepreneurial ownership functions are carried out by the trust. The remaining shares are held by the Bosch family and by Robert Bosch GmbH.
Additional information can be accessed at www.bosch.com.
Contact Information:
Amy Epstein
ABI, Inc.
29 Broadway
New York, NY 10006
+1 (212) 529-4500
aepstein@abipr.com
Joel Mazmanian
ABI, Inc.
29 Broadway
Suite 1300
New York, NY 10006
+1 (212) 529-2541
jmazmanian@abipr.com
