Because this dramatically reduces overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and also jeopardizes patient safety, pharmaceutical companies are desperately looking for solutions. With the new Variable Data Printer VDP 827, Hapa shows how Drop on Demand (DOD) inkjet technology can make marking and coding more efficient and reliable - inline.

Thanks to its highly compact design, the VDP 827 can be easily integrated into blister machines. The concept of the VDP was developed in consultation with the leading suppliers of blister machines. As it is based on the proven Hapa Webjet technology, it is an accepted standard. Moreover, details regarding mechanical and electrical integration have already been defined together with all major manufacturers.

The VDP 827 is therefore an excellent technology choice for new investments in blister lines. "In order to achieve this standardization, we worked closely with a number of blister machine manufacturers during the development phase," says James MacKenzie, Sales Director at Hapa. "Pharmaceutical companies thus receive printing processes that are optimally matched to the blister machines and benefit from standardized spare and wear parts that are available worldwide." Designed for very different installation situations, the printer is also ideal for converting existing blister systems to DOD printing with UV ink. The Swiss company Hapa is the global technology and market leader in inline and "on demand" printing solutions for the pharmaceutical industry.

"The entry into the most advanced technology"

Compared to the traditional embossing process, for example, the advantages of variable data printing with UV DOD technology are enormous. The razor-sharp 360 dpi print, which is completely independent of the speed of the blister foil, optimizes readability by control cameras and helps to minimize waste. The VDP 827 is able to utilize the entire web width of up to 288 mm and apply serialization or another form of coding anywhere on the blister film. It supports all common symbologies and barcodes.

In addition, UV DOD printing is equally legible for humans and electronic systems. The automated workflow makes it possible to drive forward the digital transformation in this area too. The time-consuming and error-prone retooling of mechanical parts is a thing of the past. UV DOD printing also has advantages over other alternative printing processes. In contrast to ablative lasers, the VDP 827, for example, does not produce any dust or dirt and does not require any specially coated and therefore more expensive films.

There are also no restrictions in terms of format size and printing speed. In contrast to thermal inkjet, UV-curing DOD printing is completely solvent-free. The ink is nevertheless immediately ready for the next inline process step and is both extremely durable and abrasion-resistant. In addition, the DOD ink can be refilled during operation, i.e. without machine downtime. There is no need to tediously change cartridges. "The VDP 827 is a simple, cost-effective introduction to what is probably the most advanced inline printing technology for this application," summarizes James MacKenzie from Hapa. "It improves patient safety, reduces complexity in production, lowers costs and increases OEE."