Monday, 17 July 2017

Engineered for The Dynamic Industry

The demand of an auxiliary never fades and should be constantly appraised to keep up with the needs of the dynamic large scale Industries. A product sells only when it has distinguished and competitive features that make it better than the several other products fighting to grab a market share.

Industrial Agitators and Funda Filter is one such product that has growing demands and needs an ongoing up gradation to perform services that has machines of the similar nature fail to undertake. The process and product requirement in industries are quiet distinguished from each other, therefore multi-tasking features are essential to accommodate several functional needs. Reduced production time and quality of the product are two main features that one looks for in the equipment.

What comes simultaneously is the responsibility to understand impact of these equipment on the natural resources and environment. An environment friendly manufacturing process, efficient processing of materials and reduced waste materials are the major arenas that should be considered while selecting the appropriate machinery for the job. Above all, the accuracy of the final product is what counts. Complicated processes in the machinery and simplified operations by technicians are the need of the hour for industries to prosper in current conditions. Besides being beneficial in the current era of industrial development, it leaves behind footprints that should be followed by the generations to come.

Equipment like Industrial Agitators and Funda Filter have manifold uses in industries that have mutually exclusive processes and are customized to meet each specific requirement. The growing demands and performance expectations involves a lot of creative and technical thinking. Over the period these have come a long way in terms of sophistication and appearance too. This is an attempt to have a refined product for simple, safe and systematic operations.

Wednesday, 21 June 2017

A Quality You can Trust

From pin to plane, quality is one thing nobody likes to sacrifice. Today quality has become a prime determining factor; price follows. Industrial Agitators Manufacturers in India have always adhered to the quality of the output generated. This brings us to the point that raw materials and semi-finished goods are not compromised on in terms of quality.

Associated closely are the Pharma Glass and Funda Filter which is used in several industries in more than one form to separate and filter wastes of various kinds. These are eco friendly and minimise wastage of raw materials. From the initial process using the right equipment is essential to have a quality product ready on time with an unmatchable performance.

There are diverse Industrial Agitators Manufacturers in India who are under immense pressure to provide international standard quality at low cost. Pharma Glass and Funda Filter are also being designed with lot of pure and sophisticated material to provide better product for the industry continuously. In this dynamic world you cannot afford to go slow or stay outdated. Being abreast with the current situation and having a vision for the future is all it takes to be a great company.

Continuous effort on production alone cannot build the empire. Quality, novelty, performance, price and durability are a few of the several factors that determine the survival of the product in the market. Risks are high but so are the outcomes. A company just needs that one moment to become a strong force in the market and this goes for all kinds of competitors at every stage. Strategies need to be made to have your product standing out in every aspect and this should start at the early stages. A company should always stick to its vision and values to beat the competition – both existing and upcoming.

Tuesday, 20 June 2017

An Industry Never Sleeps

Over the years there has been a huge expansion of Industries in India. These industries do not grow independently. Simultaneously there is a growth of several ancillary industries which directly or indirectly are associated with the main industry. Pharma Glass and Funda Filter is one such product which is used in several production and manufacturing companies by and large. Several Industrial Agitators Manufacturers in India have been supplying it to the big industries and the demand has been on the increasing side for a long time now.

The commercial enterprises have been on perennial research and development and devised new means of production. This has also brought about changes in their demands. With time Pharma Glass and Funda Filter designs have also been revised manifold times to meet the requirements of the major commercial buyers. These small industries have to face huge competition with the entities of their size as well as local suppliers and therefore have to be active 24*7 to remain in business.

Another interesting and important aspect is the scale and duration for which the company has been on the go. A few Industrial Agitators Manufacturers in India prefer to deal with new companies as they customise the product according to the need of the buyer which a few old establishments fail to provide. Lack of timeliness, credibility and experience are a few drawbacks for the company’s reputation. Experienced players on the other hand have a better knowledge of the pros and cons of latest designs and therefore undergo only the necessary changes and keep on adding facilities to accommodate changing requirements.

All said, finding a good vendor and keeping it to your self is the key for winners. Huge competition waits at each step and to reach on top you need to be the best in business.

Tuesday, 30 May 2017

What are the options for agitator seals on a glass-lined reactor?

Glass-lined reactors are used in various environments. Some prove to be difficult owing to the chemistry of the contents. The others are challenging as there is a need to protect the contents from contamination. Therefore, it is imperative to pay attention to the shaft seal on the agitator. This part prevents contents of the reactor from releasing during operation, which escalate and cause harm to the environment, the equipment as well as personnel that might be on the premises. There are quite a few options for shaft seals. It is important to choose one that matches the application. Industrial Agitators Manufacturers in India keeps in mind these requirements.

Why choose wet seals in relation to Pharma Glass and Funda Filter?
Wet seals make use of liquid barrier fluid to ensure lubrication and contain contents of the reactor under pressure. This design has been around for some time and is still used in a number of applications where customers are able to take thw barrier fluid leaking into the reactor. Wet seals make use of a seal pot, or lubricator, to serve as a reservoir. Pressure is applied to the lubricator and the fluid is circulated naturally through the seal. A pump is introduced in some cases to force the circulation of the sealing fluid.

Why choose dry seals in relation to Pharma Glass and Funda Filter?
The name dry seals come from the fact that liquid is used as a barrier fluid in wet seals and is replaced with a gas, usually Nitrogen. Dry seals make use of use seal faces that are manufactured from special grades of carbons. They have been matched to extremely tight tolerances to minimise the amount of wear and tear during an operation.

Thursday, 6 April 2017

The Benefits of Glass-Lined Reactors


In the pharmaceutical industry, we stumble upon handling acids and sticky materials that are placed in batch reactors. In fact, most bulk drugs are produced in batch wise operations. Acid reactions and crystallization operations are also performed stage wise repeatedly from raw materials treatment to the final purification of product. Active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) is the main compound of the drug that has been designed to take care of health issues. Regulatory bodies like FDA (Food and Drug Administration) are always on point when it comes to checking the cleaning of the reactors that used for processing API. 

Drugs like Nizatidine, Sertraline HCl and Fluconazole stick to the surface of stainless steel reactors even after they are cleaned thoroughly with water and methanol. Sometimes, traces of it are found when conducting a swab test. The pharma glass lined reactors prevent contamination. These use of a Agitated Nutsche Filter dryer.

A basic reactor model possesses the blue-coloured glass lining inside its surface. The dome is fitted into the cylindrical vessel with the help of “C” type clamps that place food grade basket between them, with the vessel having an opening at the bottom. The hemispherical dome has the space to accommodate a thermocouple, agitator, baffles and dip rod. The dome, and all other parts exposed to the API is lined with pharma glass. Heat transfer to the reactants is provided through the circulation of the heating media like steam through the circular tubes that have been fitted outside the vessel. In most cases, a half pipe jacket is used. PTFE lined accessories are also used to prevent stress when the nozzles for dip tubes and spargers are assembled. A sleeve with PTFE lined is used to mount accessories on the doom. Therefore, pharma glass lined reactors are in high demand as well as Agitated Nutsche Filter dryer.

Decoding the FUNDA Filter

The FUNDA can best be described as a centrifugal discharge, pressure leaf filter that has been designed for liquid solid separation. It is a compact, multi-plate filter with integrated heating and drying for pilot, manufacturing and laboratory applications. It has also been designed for pressure filtration.
The filter’s top mounted drive assembly can be removed from the vessel. Some other options include hydraulic drive or electric drive, in addition to variable speed drive system.
Agitated Nutsche Filter manufacturers India | GMM Pfaulder
Agitated Nutsche Filter manufacturers India | GMM Pfaulder

The seal and bearing assembly has been designed to eliminate causes of failure. The seal rides on a bearing sleeve as opposed to the shaft, thereby preventing shaft wear and costly repair. Some of the seal options include lip seals, mechanical seal, stuffing box (with or without flushing) and hydraulic bellows seal.
The dished filter plates equipped with spacer rings and sealing gaskets are usually mounted on the hollow shaft. They are secured by the tightening device. Funda filter manufacturers India ensure that the media is in place by a clamp ring. They ensure that they can be easily changed. Agitated Nutsche Filter manufacturers India are also particular about their product.

How is the vessel filled?
It is filled from the bottom inlet nozzle with unfiltered product or pre-coat. It is then circulated via the overflow nozzle right back to the feeding tank. All Funda filter manufacturers India ensure this, as is the case for Agitated Nutsche Filter manufacturers India.

Completely automatic filtration systems help eliminate manual filter cleaning. FUNDA filtration ensures complete automatic treatment in the solid-liquid separation processes.Horizontal filter discs make sure there is an even cake build-up. The entire system has the potential to be automated. In fact, there is a unique device to filter the entire heel. 

Tuesday, 14 March 2017

Sunny Days Ahead for the Industrial Agitators Market



The burgeoning industrial agitators market is expected to reach a growth of USD 3.86 Billion by 2022, at a CAGR of 7.07%. The market growth can be attributed to the capability to offer customized industrial agitators that are technologically evolved and user-specific. This helps ensure an improved manufacturing process.  This should spell good news for industrial agitators manufacturers in India as well.

During the forecast period, the top-mounted industrial agitators are expected to be the market leaders as they are mostly used across all the industries. These agitators provide a number of advantages like ease of operation, customization as well as a high level of efficiency. Top-mounted agitators’ main applications include digester mixing, agriculture and biogas, among others. Industrial agitators manufacturers in India can also capitalise on this trend.
industrial agitators manufacturers in India
industrial agitators manufacturers in India | GMM Pfaulder

The industrial agitators market is led by the chemicals industry. A large number of chemical manufacturers have industrial agitators installed. Technological and industrial enlargement has led to a good demand of customized industrial agitators. This is one of the main factors that have driven the growth of the industrial agitators market for the chemical industry specifically.

It should also be noted that North America had the largest industrial agitators market back in 2015, followed by APAC and Europe. The United States held the largest share of the industrial agitators market in North America, followed by Mexico and Canada. Why does the industrial agitators market have a large presence in the region? This can be attributed to a significant demand for industrial agitators owing to the presence of a large number of manufacturing companies spanning different industries.

Monday, 13 March 2017

Decoding the Agitated Nutsche Filter


Agitated Nutsche Filter Dryer technology has been a stable in the commercial manufacture of advanced drugs for about two decades now. There have been equipment designers who have refined the pressured filter dryers to make them the backbone of a pharmaceutical plant.

Externally, it may seem that the technology has not undergone major chance. However, on closer inspection, these pressured filter dryers have gone through a process of refinement to make them to make them work effectively for the pharmaceutical plant. Therefore, Agitated Nutsche Filter manufacturers in India are constantly looking for new ways to improve the technology.
Agitated Nutsche Filter manufacturers in India | Gmm Pfaulder
Agitated Nutsche Filter manufacturers in India | Gmm Pfaulder

A Nutsche filter dryer is now becoming a go-to equipment for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) manufacturing. This is because it actively combines filtering and drying coupled with amazing containment methods. By working in tandem with drug manufacturers, the filtration experts have refined process details like high quality welding of the filter mesh onto the support ring, special filter plate design to make a case for optimal drainability, in addition to innovative filtration rings and meshes that offer different kinds of filtration capabilities.

Once solid and liquid are separated, the agitator is used to smooth out the cracks that have been performed in the product cake. This helps improve the efficiency of filtration and washing. Some agitators force the product to go back and forth across the surface, thereby creating differential velocity mixing. Agitated Nutsche Filter manufacturers in India are always re-inventing the product to ensure optimum results.

Once a product has been filtered and washed, the product can be dried or discharged as a wet cake. Product drying is possible mainly because of the dryer’s heat transfer area, which is divided into the filter base, vessel sidewall and dished-top, as well as the heated agitator.

Thursday, 9 February 2017

The Growth Trajectory of Industrial Agitators


With the demand growing for agitators from the chemical industry, the industrial agitators market has witnessed a growth spurt. This apart, with technology taking massive strides, there has been an increase in the acceptance and use of industrial agitators. This has accelerated the growth of the industrial agitators sector.
However, it should be noted that the main restraining factor for the industrial agitators’ market growth is the cost of maintenance and installation.
The space for top-mounted agitators may witness a growth spurt in the coming years. The fact that top-mounted agitators are used in pressurised and atmospheric tanks in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food and beverages sectors, among others, there could be a spike in traction in the market.
Also, installing top-mounted agitators is comparatively easier as compared to bottom-mounted and side-mounted agitators. read more..

Why Pet Packging Is The New Rage

PET bottles have been around for many years now, in fact it has been manufactured for close to 42 years, globally. It should be noted that lead, cadmium, chromium, mercury and arsenic are not required when manufacturing PET bottles or resin. Since these are not used, the packaging is a safer alternative.
Also, PET does not contain phthalates of any kind. It should also be noted that colorants used in pharma PET bottles are FDA-compliant. Therefore, PET conforms to a number of regulations on colorants for food contact materials.
If a comparison is made between PET and pharma glass bottles, then PET is the more environment-friendly one. PET is devoid of hazardous substances. Also, no leachants cross the permissable limits. In addition, Lead (Pb) leaches out less from PET bottles as opposed to glass variants. read more


Tuesday, 24 January 2017

Providing Protection against Corrosion


Why is there a need for corrosion-resistant coating? It helps protect metal against degradation that results due to moisture, oxidation, salt spray or exposure to industrial or environmental chemicals. Corrosion-resistant coating provides additional protection to metal surfaces and prohibits contact corrosive materials and chemical compounds.

What are some of the benefits?
Corrosion-resistant coatings serve a purpose as they ensure metal components last longer than the time span they are given. Considering metal component operate in harsh applications, these corrosion-resistant coatings provide like no other. including Some of these coatings are made from the unique fluoropolymer coating which acts as a protection against extreme chemical applications for a long time, thereby ensuring proper functioning for a long period of time.Some of the corrosion-resistant coatings available include corrosion resistant steel coatings, that helps match the performance requirements of an application.

Global demand
Corrosion and its various forms costs the global economy $3 trillion per year. The present world market size corrosion-resistant coatings has crossed the $12 billion mark. With an increasing demand for mining and energy resources, the market growth is expected to be around 4.5% per annum.
Also, there has been a growth in nanocoatings owing to their ability to provide chemical and abrasion resistance with excellent adhesion, while also meeting regulatory requirements. Some of the main growth markets include water filtration and treatment, wind turbine coatings and oil and gas pipeline coatings.
It should also be noted that there is a burgeoning market for budget-friendly non-epoxy-based corrosion-resistant coatings. These coating are in demand because they provide protection against temperature swings, road salt and acid. Therefore, metals that come in contact with this kind of corrosive materials could do with some added coating.


Australia’s vanadium project breaks new ground


Australian Vanadium (AVL) has been successful in producing its first batch of vanadium electrolyte from its commissioned pilot plant at the University of Western Australia.This is another milestone for AVL’s energy storage plan as the product has the potential to be used in vanadium redox flow batteries (VRBs). What are VRBs? They are energy storage devices that have been designed to store energy generatedfrom renewable sources.
However, the company does not plan on stopping there. The proposal for a larger plant will be studied to assess its feasibility. The company plans to deliver vanadium products like batteries to end users, while also supplying and processing raw materials from the Gabanintha vanadium project in Western Australia.
The journey
The company has been using the pilot plant to test and verify the manufacture of vanadium electrolyte products that are deemed suitable for third party VRB. The company plans to supply vanadium electrolyte to VRBs that are being sold in Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific and Asian countries.
However, ASL has also been approached by European battery manufacturers who seek electrolyte supplies for the long term. A number of additional vanadium electrolyte batches will be analysed and produced over time. Before that step, the company intends to gather information from the testing, which includes reviews by vanadium battery manufacturers and researchers.
By successfully installing the pilot plant, the company has taken a leap in the right direction as far as its strategy is concerned to become a player in the vanadium market. The development of a commercial plant in Australia is in sync with the company’s strategy to involve investors in the energy storage value chain, while also providing cash flow opportunities.


Thursday, 8 December 2016

Pilot Plant to Drive Ox-Combustion Carbon Capture


In a bid to push forward the commercialisation of a first-of-its-kind carbon capture technology, a thermal facility will test a way to capture CO2 emissions from coal-fired power plants. It will soon start operations in Ottawa, Canada.

The project is being jointly undertaken by the US Department of Energy and Natural Resources Canada. Both countries will come together to test oxy-fired pressurised fluidized bed combustion (oxy-PFBC). Officials from both countries believe the new process will be able to capture CO2 economically and efficiently, as opposed to other technologies. If the pilot plant results are successful, it will help boost the oxy-PFBC process to commercial use.

It is based on the oxy-fuel combustion process, which makes use of pure oxygen as opposed to air in the mission to burn fuel and manufacture heat. [Read more.....]

Pharmaceutical Packaging with a Twist


A number of renowned pharmaceutical customers are opting for innovative primary packaging products to meet their global requirements. In fact, a number of companies are offering pharma glass and plastic packaging products that are registered with the FDA. These innovative packaging products have been manufactured according to stringent quality parameters to ensure longevity and client satisfaction.
Plastic and glass rank among the best, and primary packaging material choices for liquid and solid dosage pharmaceuticals. Therefore, it becomes necessary for companies to produce pharma glass and plastic packaging that meets requirements.  

In addition to ensuring durability, most of the packaging comes in interesting shapes and sizes. Therefore, these companies are also about providing visual appeal, in addition to functionality. [Read more...]

Wednesday, 23 November 2016

The Corrosion-Resistant Resin Market Looks to do Brisk Business

There are a number of industries globally that incur heavy losses that can be attributed to corrosion annually. How is corrosion harmful? It can become an impediment and pose as a hazard to people and property. In a bid to prevent such damage, corrosion resistant resins come into use. They help minimise these damages that affect equipment, structures, and machinery. These can be identified as the main drivers for the corrosion resistant resins market.

Going solely by the type, the epoxy segment is touted to lead the CRR market during the forecast period. Why is epoxy touted to do so well? It has cost-efficient and has superior physical properties. In fact, it is preferred over other variants of corrosion resistant resins.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion Resistance

This apart, the composites application segment is touted to grow at the highest CAGR during the period under forecast.  Going by the application, the composites segment may grow at the highest CAGR between the period from 2016 and 2026. Considering more businesses are adopting lightweight materials, these composites are now being used more often instead of traditional metals, mainly because they are cost-effective and do not require much maintenance. Most manufacturing companies’ R&D departments are in the process of conducting researches to open up and expand the application area of Corrosion Resistant resins. Once this kicks into high gear, it will in all probability drive the market during the forecast period. All one can do now is wait and watch to see how it goes.

Ontario Pledges $4.5 Million For Bio-Refinery Pilot Plant


In August, the Ontario government made its intentions clear about investing $4.5 million into a bio-refinery pilot plant with the aim to produce eco-friendly products in the area of Thunder Bay.
Pilot Plant
Pilot Plant

The financial aid will allow FP Innovations to set up a pilot plant, which will aid in producing green chemicals from wood to be used in the construction and mining industries, thereby replacing petroleum-based chemicals. Government officials believe that this financial investment will give Ontario's forestry sector the boost it needs to create jobs for the residents of Thunder Bay.

When the project hits the ground running, it will help Ontario’s pulp and paper industry to become more sustainable and profitable. How can they achieve it? By making the big shift from newsprint to the use of other products, said Pedram Fatehi, the industrial research chair in green chemicals and processes at Lakehead University.

Fatehi was quick to point out that the paper industry has been struggling because newsprint was their major product. He added that the consumption of newsprint is very low at the moment. Therefore, they want to do their best to convert the current process into something that will be more profitable and sustainable. If this plan comes into fruition, it will definitely be a win-win for everyone involved.

The proposed pilot plant will be set up at Thunder Bay plant of Resolute Forest Products, which has also pledged an addition amount of $3.5 million for the project.According to media reports, the new plant will help with mass production and the commercialization of green bio-chemicals that have been derived from wood





Tuesday, 8 November 2016

The Industrial Agitators Market is expected to Skyrocket by 2024

If one thought the industrial agitators market was doing well at the moment, there’s more good news in store. According to a report by Grand View Research, Inc, the –mark global industrial agitators market may well touch the USD 3.46 billion by 2024.

The industrial agitators market will likely witness a significant growth because of rapid industrialization in growing economies like India, Brazil, and China. What is the primary factor driving this growth story? The increased industrial activities in these countries are boosting the demand for agitators that are highly-efficient.
Agitators are most commonly, and efficiently, used in the chemical, food and beverage, and wastewater treatment applications. Therefore, the move to embrace mixing and blending technology in process industries is expected to drive the market over the period.

What are industrial agitators? They are the machines that help process the products in industries for the job of mixing liquids, promoting the reaction of chemical substances and increasing heat transfer. The demand for advanced and customised devices which are specific to the end-user application will help drive market growth. Wastewater and chemical treatment industries have a huge complex agitation demand. This has helped spike the demand for these devices.
industrial agitators
industrial agitators


The report also suggested the following:
The top entry segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 6.5% from 2016 to 2024.These industrial agitators are highly durable. This apart, increasing adoption in the oil & gas and chemical industry will help boost the overall industry growth. Asia Pacific is projected to be the fastest-growing region because of the growth in the industrial sector. Favourable government policies will also help boost regional demand.

Decoding the Nutsche Filtration and Drying Procedure


Drying and filtration are widely regarded as crucial operations in a number of industrial processes that require separating liquid from solid matter.  It should be noted that solids can easily be discharged directly into a dryer. However, in the case of an agitated nutsche filter/dryer, the function of drying is carried out by the same equipment.

Nutsche filtration can be termed as a batch filtration technique that makes use of vacuum or pressure in a closed vessel. What are some of the benefits associated with using this technology? They include product isolation, reduced product handling, minimal operator exposure, in addition to environmental protection against solvent vaporization. This apart, the containment level supplied may even comply with GMP as well as other safety and health requirements that companies face the heat for.  It is for these reasons that the nutsche filter/dryers are more popularly used in pharmaceutical, dye and paint production, waste water treatment and fine chemical applications.

The basic steps that constitute the drying and filtration process in nutsche dryers/filters include:
Filling or Charging is the first step. It involves transferring the product to be filtered from the primary location to the filter/dryer.
Nutsche filtration | nutsche dryers/filters
Nutsche filtration | nutsche dryers/filters

The filtering step involves using pressure and/or vacuum to force liquid through the filter media and solid bed.
The displacement washing process involves the spraying of fresh wash liquid on top of the solid cake. One should take care not to disturb the surface. The liquid is usually pushed through with pressure or vacuum.
Reslurry washing is usually performed if dissolving of impurities or additional extraction is necessary.
The smoothing process usually follows the filtration or wash process, most notably after the final wash. The agitator comes in handy to close cracks and compress the cake to ensure minimal residual moisture.
The drying or cooling process is done to ensure the solid is evacuated into a second dryer in order to complete the drying, as well as the cooling process.  In agitated nutsche filter/dryers, both functions are combined. In fact, drying may even take place in the same vessel.  In order to make this a success, the vessel surfaces are heated.  The types of drying that can be conducted include vacuum drying and convection drying.
The discharging process is the final process. This is carried out through the valve/port which is placed on the vessel sidewall.  

Thursday, 29 September 2016

Understanding Industrial Agitators


Before understanding how industrial agitators function, it is essential to zone in on the various types on agitators in use across the globe. Here is a breakdown:
Paddle Agitators: This is among the primary types of agitators replete with blades that extend up to tank walls. Paddle agitators are put to use where uniform laminar flow of liquids is required.
Anchor Agitators: The anchor agitator comprises a shaft and a propeller that has an anchor-like design. These agitators can be mounted at an angle or centrally. They are mostly used in reactors.
Radial Propeller Agitators: Radial industrial agitators comprise propellers akin to marine propellers. They have two to four blades that rotate in a screw-like motion. The material is propelled and agitated parallel to the shaft.
Propeller Agitators: A propeller agitator has been shaped with blades that taper towards the shaft to decrease centrifugal force and increase axial flow. Propeller agitators are the best fit for hassle-free mixing jobs.
Turbine Agitators: The turbine agitator has the ability to create turbulent movement of fluids owing to the combination of rotational and centrifugal motion.
Helical Agitators: A helical industrial agitator comes with blades that have a twisted mechanism, quite similar to the threads of a screw. The curves ensure fluids are vigorously churned to be agitated. Helical agitators are especially useful for mixing viscous liquids. 
It is also pertinent to note that the diameter of an agitator is dependent on the diameter of the vessel. These industrial agitators are also useful for the production of pharma glass. 

Therefore, it can safely be added that the diameter of an agitator is 1/3rd the diameter of the tank for an axial flow turbine, marine propeller, disc blade turbine and backward blade turbine, among others. On a sidenote, the pharma glass industry depends on the functioning of industrial agitators. 

Changing Dynamic: From Pharma Glass to Plastic

Pharmaceutical packaging has undergone a tremendous shift in the market preference. Now, there is a preference for pharma glass over plastics. This trend has been especially true in the injectable devices segment. This shift has also affected the product portfolio of a number of renowned parenteral packaging supplier companies in their struggle to meet market demand.
A number of tests were conducted in pilot plants to assess the feasibility of making the change from glass to plastic.
Here were some of the factors responsible for the shift from pharma glass to plastic:
- Recent advancements in the drug formulation stage have resulted in increased drug complexity as well as quality challenges that arise due to the use of glass. This includes delamination, breakage as well as siliconization, among a host of other factors. Therefore, the problems posed by glass have also affected pharma players’ injectable drug’s packaging procurement. Why so? It is because the supply base is characterized by long term contracts.
However, it is vital to note that parenteral packaging is also essential. Industrial agitators also play a vital role.
Drugs are most often than not administered through intravenous, intra ocular or intradermal formats. These are called parenteral drugs. These drugs differ from extra dermal and conventional oral drug intake. Parenteral drugs help in curing diseases like cancer, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, in addition to a host of other diseases. Therefore, as far as these diseases are concerned, injectable are highly effective methods of administration. Therefore, experts are testing the effectiveness of plastic over glass. The incorporation of industrial agitators is also novel.
It is pertinent to mention that parenteral packaging is among the fastest growing pharmaceutical packaging formats. From 2014-19, parenteral package had a CAGR of 8-9%. The spike in demand is driven by the rise in lifestyle disease, increasing health awareness and an ageing population in countries like China and India.