Nutra Manufacturing in the US has purchased an optical inspection system for softgels to support its move towards integrated and automated processing.
Symetix, the pharma business unit of Key Technology, supplied the new Optyx SG, which automatically inspects each softgel capsule at high production rates and identifies and removes defective softgels and foreign capsules from the product stream. Nutra's Optyx SG will be the first installed system in production.
"Nutra is constantly working to raise the bar in terms of product quality and production line efficiencies. Based on extensive trials, we're confident that Optyx SG will deliver," said Michael Locke, senior vice-president of operations for Nutra. The company's decision to purchase Optyx SG was part of its initiative to eliminate batch manufacturing processes in favour of integrated/automated processes.
Optyx SG verifies product colour, size and shape to ensure every softgel capsule conforms to product specifications. Using ultra-high resolution cameras it detects and removes foreign capsules as well as the smallest colour and shape defects, including air bubbles, stained capsules and misshapen product.
It enables companies to reduce the risk of contamination by minimising human contact with product. Based on labour savings alone, Optyx SG will, it is claimed, offer payback in less than a year.