Harpak-ULMA has announced cost-effective medical device packaging that complies with new ISO 11607 guidelines.
The flow-pack solution claims to be capable of applying a chevron seal for medical packaging.
When flow-wrapping medical devices, aseptic presentation is thought to be the single most important limitation. Flow-wrapping is widely viewed as one of the most cost-effective methods for packaging high-profile products, despite the fact that in medical device applications it is more commonly applied to products where the product sterility of the outside of the product is not essential e.g. infusion bags or IV sets – where the fluid path is sterile and preserved by the device itself.
Flow-wrapping is also used in kits, where one or more devices are contained in an inner wrap that provides an adequate sterile barrier. Introducing chevron seals with peelable side seals could dramatically improve the ease of opening, making cost-effective flow-wrapping a feasible alternative for dimensional, larger, or bulky disposable products that require a strong, but easy-to-open seal.
Chevron sealing is ideally suited to such products, as they can challenge seal integrity on all four package sides. This capability is particularly important given recently updated ISO 11607 guidelines that emphasise point of use aseptic presentation of terminally sterilised medical devices. The ISO updates were primarily to help manufacturers comply with EU Medical Device Regulations which are set to go into effect this year.
Kevin Roach, Harpak-ULMA CEO said: “Harpak-ULMA is committed to continuous innovation across all of our packaging platforms. We expect that introducing chevron seal capabilities in our flow-wrapping solutions will be well-received by medical device customers seeking affordable, compliant packaging options.”
He added: “Thought leadership is not just about envisioning the future for customers, it means executing on it. We are expanding the depth and breadth of options available to our customers on every front – from sealing technology to smart connected machines and even augmented reality. We know our customers want to do more and go faster with less resources.”
Harpak-ULMA’s flow-wrap chevron sealing samples were on display at MD&M West earlier this year.