Bosch Introduces New HQL Sterilization Tunnel Series

At Interpack 2014, Bosch Packaging Technology, a leading supplier of process and packaging technology, presents the new 6000, 7000 and 8000 series of the HQL drying and sterilization tunnel. This new generation of tunnels is an energy-saving and especially flexible advancement of the proven HQL series for sterilizing and depyrogenizing pre-cleaned ampoules, injection and infusion bottles, as well as cartridges and syringes.

The modular design of the HQL series ensures a customer-specific tunnel arrangement. Each sterilizing and cooling module contains the entire technology for the respective process step. “The modules can now be variably put together. This allows the new series to be flexibly integrated into different line concepts,” Matthias Angelmaier, product manager at Bosch Packaging Technology, explains. In addition, the new design facilitates access to critical areas such as HEPA filters, which can be easily replaced, thus simplifying maintenance of the tunnels.

Savings in Energy and Space

Pharmaceutical manufacturers profit from the increased energy efficiency of the new HQL series. In contrast to most sterilization tunnels, the new series requires less energy for electrical heating and ventilation due to an optimized airflow and measures for heat recovery. A flexible pressure zone concept ensures increased process safety by adapting tunnel pressures in the different zones to customers' requirements. The new tunnels are further characterized by a reduced overall tunnel size, making them shorter and more space-saving than the previous series.

Three Standardized Conveyor Belt Sizes

The new tunnels are available in three standardized bandwidths of 600 respectively 800 mm for the HQL 6000 and 7000 and 1 200 mm for the HQL 8000, which is on display at Interpack. With its different sizes, the drying and sterilization tunnel can be flexibly adapted to different requirements.

“Based on the physical properties of our customers' packaging material we calculate, which tunnel modules are adequate for their processes,” Angelmaier explains. This subsequently facilitates safe process validation and documentation. “The HQL 8000, for instance, with its broad conveyor belt and several sterilizing and cooling modules is suited for large glass containers and downstream filling machines with high output.” The horizontal transport belt made of a stainless steel wire mesh makes sure all freestanding and non-freestanding containers are transported through the HQL tunnel gently and without abrasion.