Interpack 2017: Bosch launches new KLV series for leak detection of rigid containers

Neue KLV-Serie für die Dichtigkeitsprüfung von starren Glasbehältnissen: Als erstes Mitglied der neuen KLV Serie stellt Bosch auf der Interpack 2017 die für Vials ausgelegte KLV 1360 vor. Die Maschinenplattform eignet sich für die Inspektion von bis zu 600 standfesten Glasbehältnissen pro Minute. (Bild: Bosch) / New KLV series for leak detection of rigid glass containers: At Interpack 2017, Bosch unveils the first member of the new KLV series – the KLV 1360 for vials. The platform is suited for inspection of up to 600 standing glass containers per minute. (Picture: Bosch)

Inspektion von bis zu 600 Glasbehältnissen pro Minute basierend auf Gruppenprüfung: Die KLV 1360 erzielt ihre Höchstleistung dank spezieller Prüfkammern, in denen die Behältnisse wahlweise einzeln oder gruppenweise geprüft werden. (Bild: Bosch) / Inspection of up to 600 glass containers per minute based on group testing: The KLV 1360 achieves its maximum performance thanks to special inspection chambers, where the containers can be tested either individually or in groups. (Picture: Bosch)

- Vacuum process ensures high inspection sensitivity
- Inspection of up to 600 glass containers per minute using unique group testing
- The first machine of its kind with process control via reference parts

At Interpack 2017, Bosch Packaging Technology presents the new KLV series for Container Closure Integrity Testing (CCIT). “In the pharmaceutical industry, non-destructive CCI technologies are becoming increasingly important,” explains Dr Jérôme Freissmuth, product group head at Bosch Packaging Technology. “Even the smallest leaks can be highly hazardous for patients. The active ingredient could alter, administering the medication could lead to serious side effects as a result of non-sterility, or the medication could become ineffective. Furthermore, non-destructive integrity testing protects pharmaceutical manufacturers against the loss of valuable medication, since the container remains intact during testing.”

Bosch has continuously expanded its portfolio of CCI technologies in recent years. High voltage leak detection and laser-based headspace analysis are now complemented by the new KLV series for vacuum leak detection. At Interpack, Bosch unveils the first in the series – the KLV 1360, which has been specially developed for vials. Generally, the platform is suited for all rigid glass containers.

Highly sensitive testing combined with high output 

“A special feature is the combination of testing sensitivity and high output,” says Wolfram Schindler, engineer measurement technology at Bosch  Packaging Technology. In vacuum leak detection, negative pressure is created in hermetically sealed chambers. If the container is faulty, the leaking fluid or gas causes the pressure to rise. The KLV 1360 measures this pressure increase with very high sensitivity. Thanks to state-of-the-art measuring technology, the machine is able to measure leaks equivalent to hole sizes of less than five micrometers.

The KLV 1360 can inspect between 250 and 600 containers per minute. It achieves its maximum performance thanks to special inspection chambers, where the containers can be tested either individually or in groups. “Depending on the body diameter – which can vary from eight to 56 millimeters – the KLV can inspect up to three containers simultaneously in one chamber. This enables us to significantly increase the output,” Schindler explains.

Maximum protection even after inspection 

The KLV ensures a consistently high inspection quality. It is the first machine of its kind where the integrated robotic system not only feeds the containers that require inspection into the process. It also adds reference samples for internal process control. In addition, automatic re-inspection makes sure that only containers, which have clearly been tested, leave the machine.

Even after inspection, the product and closure quality remain a top priority. The KLV does not grip the containers from above. Instead, the slightly slanted transport system makes it possible to remove the conatiners from the inspection chamber sideways in order to prevent leaks occurring due to closure gripping. Furthermore, a star-wheel system ensures gentle transportation through the system with minimal wear and tear. Thanks to its modular construction, the KLV 1360, which has a turntable fitted as standard, can be seamlessly integrated into existing lines.

Everything from a single source

The new KLV 1360 completes Bosch’s inspection portfolio. Visitors to Interpack can learn about the entire range of technologies – from visual inspection and headspace analysis to vacuum testing, all of which will be showcased as benchtop models. “Our customers not only have a wide choice of technologies,” Schindler underlines. “We also advise them on the best inspection solutions for their liquid or lyophilized medications and are their experienced partners when it comes to regulatory requirements and individual solutions.”