ARBURG and IML technology in medicine: 8 tubes with thermo-sensitive label produced in 10 seconds

Mono-Material for Easy Recycling

Both parts of the product – the 15 ml tube and the label – are made from polypropylene (PP). This mono-material approach simplifies recycling and reduces environmental impact. In addition, the label contributes to the stability of the tube, allowing the wall thickness to be reduced and thus lowering material consumption.

Perfect functional integration: labels with volume graduations (left) or thermochromic printing (right) provide added value.

Compact Production Line with High Precision

The entire process takes place on an electric ALLROUNDER 520 A ULTIMATE machine with a clamping force of 1 500 kN. This particular machine is optimised for cleanrooms and meets the requirements of class ISO 7. The line uses an 8-cavity mould from KEBO and achieves a cycle time of approximately 10 seconds.

Labels with a thickness of 57 micrometres must be positioned with extreme precision – within a tolerance of 0.2 mm. The automation system from Beck itself positions the label with an accuracy in the hundredths of a millimetre range.

Labels with Additional Functions

Labels are not just used for marking, such as the graduations on tubes that indicate the fill level. IML technology also offers other options, such as temperature-sensitive labels with thermochromic printing that change colour when a certain temperature is exceeded – for example, 7 °C. This makes it possible to immediately detect a break in the cold chain for sensitive samples. In addition, labels can include QR codes with information on proper storage or logistics, for example.

Quality Monitored in Real Time

The entire process is monitored by a camera system from Intravis, which performs 100% quality inspection in real time. This minimises production rejects and ensures stable series production.

(Left) Precise label positioning  and (right) inline quality inspection are essential.

IML Changes the Rules of the Game

Thanks to its production speed, precision and sustainability, IML technology in medicine represents a significant step towards more efficient and safer packaging solutions. The combination of state-of-the-art machinery, automation and smart materials enables production that saves both time and resources and delivers added value for healthcare.

View the application here.