Process Solution

DRUG COATING SYSTEM

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Small footprint (340x170x240) cm³
  • Cleanroom class ISO 8 or higher
  • Modular design – can be attached to a cluster system or work as stand-alone
  • Flow control by dynamic feedback loop
  • Up to 3 coating stations per module
  • High flow rate range down to 0.5 µl/min
  • Coating precision up to 0.02 mg/cm²
  • Ultrasonic spray technology
  • Dynamic shutter system
  • Intuitive HMI design
  • Automatic handling system

The IMSTec Drug Coating System represents a high end solution for coating applications such as drug and polymer coating for orthopaedic implants. Parameters, such as flow rate, spray velocity, drying time etc. are recipe based and can be dynamically loaded depending on the product. An automatic imaging system minimizes the error rate. An automatic material handling system maximizes the mean time to assist.

 

 

IMSTec’s fully automated drug and polymer coating system targets coating applications in particular for medical devices such as orthopaedic implants. The centre of the machine is the main module with the robot that handles the parts between the logistical positions. Mounted on the main module are up to three coating cells containing the technique for fully automated coating.

 

The ultrasonic spray technology combined with a shutter system ensures a precise and repeatable coating result. The highly flexible coating system allows coating of a wide variety of different products and fluids. For ease of use, with minimal user interaction, the coating systems are embedded into an automatic handling system: The operator is required to provide the product loaded onto a logistical tray into the main module. A robotic system transfers the product automatically from the logistic trays to the coating cells where the coating is done automatically.


The flow rate is permanently controlled by a flow meter. A feedback loop ensures a constant liquid flow and a homogeneous coating thickness. A spray shutter mounted underneath the spray nozzle replaces manual masking and guarantees that the coating is only applied to the designated areas. A 5 axis kinematic system allows a variety of different movement patterns adjustable to the part to be coated (250mm x 200mm x 200mm, incl. rotation and tilting).


RFID tags within the part fixtures and the logistical trays ensure single part traceability through the whole process. A filter fan unit on the main module and an exhaust in the coating cells lead to a defined air flow pulling clean air in and contaminated air off the system. Therefore the system provides a cleanroom environment and is completely safe even for coating of harmful fluids. The modular design allows the usage as a stand-alone solution (half or fully automated) as well as the integration into a cluster system.


Large windows around the enclosure allow permanent observation of the process. An electrical safety concept ensures that all movements as well as liquid delivery are stopped when a door or cover is opened