Customer: Vetter Pharma-Fertigung GmbH & Co. KG

Project: In total 6 filling solutions for syringes in nests, vials in bulk and a combination system for syringes, vials and cartridges

Timeline: since 2020

Meeting the high requirements of a CDMO regarding the maximum flexibility in terms of filling systems, output and container compatibility.

Innovation through collaboration

It all starts with a vision. To reach millions of people, medications must be manufactured under the best possible conditions, with the utmost precision, adaptability, and consideration for the most recent regulatory requirements. But how does a vision become an innovative solution? The answer lies in a partnership characterized by trust, openness, and innovation.   

The challenge: A new dimension of flexibility

As one of the world’s leading CDMOs (Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization), Vetter faced a complex challenge. The market required versatile and effective filling systems that could process different containers, such as syringes, vials, and cartridges in the nest while adhering to stringent aseptic regulations.

The current project with Vetter involves the development and implementation of six state-of-the-art filling lines: four nest filling lines for syringes, one bulk filling line for vials, and a flexible combination line for vials, syringes, and cartridges.

groninger + Vetter - Stefan Allgaier

The challenge in our projects is always to find a common denominator between the standards of the equipment manufacturers and our customer’s requirements. Together with groninger, we have been able to accomplish this very well.

Christian Allgaier
Director Technical Project Management, Vetter

The partnership: Cooperation as equals

It was clear from the start that this would not be a typical project. There were some obstacles in the way, but that was a testimony to the partnership’s strength. Both companies cooperation was on equal terms.

Thanks to our partnership, we have taken filling machines to the next level.

Robert Kibele
Product Manager, groninger

Technical requirements were not only solved but turned into real innovations due to the teams’ open and thorough communication. A central component of the project is continuous improvement. Changes and adjustments made to one line are directly transferred to all the others. This continuous improvement process (CIP) optimizes both the software and the mechanical components of the filling lines. This means that production always remains state-of-the-art and always meets the highest quality standards and efficiency.

The technology: Precision meets flexibility

Engineers, software specialists and technicians worked hand in hand to develop state-of-the-art filling lines that not only meet today’s requirements, but also set new standards for the future. 

Automatic de-bagger

The specially developed bag unpacker enables fully automated and efficient handling of the tubs and, as a result, sets new standards in terms of low-particle introduction into the Class A cleanroom. 

Optimized internal calibration of the IPC station

This innovation makes it possible to calibrate (three-point calibration) the machines precisely and repeatedly, which guarantees consistently good product quality and lowers maintenance work.

Track & Trace

The use of Track & Trace ensures the complete traceability of every product, increases transparency along the entire supply chain and improves safety for both manufacturers and end users.

Camera stations

The cutting-edge camera stations ensure that only defect-free units are sent on for additional processing by continuously assessing the goods’ quality.

Rotary piston pump (RPP) without seals

This technical innovation simplifies maintenance and minimizes the risk of product contamination, making the aseptic production process safer and more efficient.

Optimized automation

Intuitive and user-friendly operator guidance from production preparation to the end of the batch ensures smooth operation and significantly minimizes the effort required for training.

Individual object tracking

Complete documentation and precise and reliable quality control are ensured by carefully and individually tracking each object through assignment in the shift register.

Robot module for ejection and sampling

The system ensures that faulty tubs are automatically ejected so that only flawless products are processed further.

The people behind the technology

Each project is the culmination of the efforts of all those involved. Their voices show why this partnership is so successful:

 

[Translate to English:] groninger + Vetter - Team

The cooperation is a win-win situation. groninger is constantly developing its systems to meet the needs of the market.

Christian Allgaier
Director Technical Project Management, Vetter

I particularly value the open and constructive collaboration, which enables us to successfully overcome challenges.

Ruben Thiele
Project Manager, groninger

As a CDMO, Vetter brings a lot of market know-how from different angles to the table. With this know-how we can together pioneer to develop new and future-proof filling solutions.

Robert Kibele
Product Management, groninger

This partnership goes far beyond pure machine development. It embodies our shared ambition to create future-oriented solutions that have a lasting impact on the industry. 

groninger: Infeed of the tabs
Copyright Vetter Pharma International GmbH
groninger: Infeed of the tabs
Copyright Vetter Pharma International GmbH
groninger overview of the filling machine
Copyright Vetter Pharma International GmbH
groninger stopper sorting
Copyright Vetter Pharma International GmbH
groninger filling and closing
Copyright Vetter Pharma International GmbH
groninger stopper sorting
Copyright Vetter Pharma International GmbH