GF introduces advanced inspection solutions for soft IV-bags
Until recent years, the inspection of IV bags was largely performed manually worldwide, due to the inherent challenges of handling and inspecting soft containers. Building on its deep expertise in automated vision inspection, GF has successfully addressed these limitations by developing the industry’s first rotary inspection machine specifically designed for flexible IV bags. This innovation represents a major step forward in quality assurance, enabling reliable, repeatable and objective inspection while significantly reducing reliance on manual processes.
Rotary inspection machines for flexible IV bags - characteristics
These machines are designed to inspect single chamber IV bags in a wide range of formats, accommodating different shapes and volumes from 50 ml up to 1,000 ml. The rotary configuration reaches speeds of up to 4,500 bags per hour, ensuring high productivity without compromising inspection accuracy. Bags can be automatically fed in-line from upstream equipment via robotic systems that orient and gently transfer them onto the inspection carousel. Manual loading is also possible, offering flexibility according to line configuration and production needs.
At the heart of the system is a sophisticated inspection process based on multiple control steps. Specially designed grippers securely hold each bag by its top portion, stabilizing the container throughout the inspection cycle as the carousel rotates. Each bag undergoes four consecutive particle inspection phases, including inversion into an upside down position to maximize detection reliability. Every inspection station is equipped with high resolution cameras and a dedicated illumination system, ensuring optimal image quality and consistent inspection performance.
Following inspection, bags are automatically discharged either onto the good product conveyor or into a rejection chute leading to a collection bin. To further enhance quality control, optional features such as cosmetic inspection of caps and ports and a high voltage leak detection system can be integrated into the platform, allowing customers to tailor the solution to their specific quality requirements.
LBI model
In addition to the rotary machine, GF has also developed in 2023 a linear configuration (LBI model), designed to optimize floor space and better fit compact production environments typically associated with manual inspection areas. Based on the same proven inspection principles, the linear version reaches speeds of up to 3,000 bags per hour, offering a space saving solution without sacrificing inspection reliability or performance.
With its LBI portfolio, GF confirms its commitment to advancing automated inspection technologies for the pharmaceutical industry, helping manufacturers improve product quality, process consistency and operational efficiency.