Keeping pharma manufacturing healthy

There are multiple processes involved in pharmaceutical manufacturing and many of the production systems are complex, containing multiple technologies which all have to operate flawlessly and in harmony if production targets, and quality standards are to be maintained. Although scheduled maintenance programmes allow the opportunity to repair or replace any items which may require attention, the ability to interrogate elements of a system whilst in production provides a valuable insight into the status of these system elements and enables predictive and preventative maintenance routines to be established.

As a market leader in vacuum automation and ergonomic handling systems, Schmalz technologies and solutions can be found across multiple market sectors and applications including pharmaceutical manufacturing. Through a combination of comprehensive research and a focus on innovation, Schmalz has developed an extensive range of innovative and intelligent technologies and systems designed to increase flexibility and improve productivity, whilst at the same time enhancing the potential for digitalisation.

Schmalz' VSi vacuum, and pressure switch is an ideal solution for fully automated production lines, with complex systems which may be in difficult to access areas. These electronic switches are modular in design, simple to integrate within an automation environment, and visible throughout the entire process thanks to the use of innovative communication technology. The VSi vacuum and pressure switch represents a significant step forward when it comes to troubleshooting and maintenance tasks:

Both device and process information are available in real time as a result of the switch performing direct measurements throughout the process and communicating with its respective controller via an IO-Link. The device and process information can be parameterised and also viewed on a smartphone using Near Field Communication (NFC). Current vacuum or pressure levels can be seen on the display and the LED status indicator.

These units can be located independently, away from the control and indicator display within the system, and the compact nature of the switch allows installation directly on the suction cup, a particularly useful feature within decentralised vacuum systems. Further benefits include the ability to remotely set and programme the vacuum and pressure switch even at points in the process that are difficult to work on manually.

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