In the demanding world of pharmaceutical packaging, precision marking, and traceability aren't just quality metrics, they're regulatory requirements. When pharmaceutical companies are marking large quantities of packages and need to replace aging and worn steel stamping dies, Durable Technologies has established itself as an industry leader in providing reliable solutions.
The Challenge of Pharmaceutical Package Marking
Amcor Pharmaceutical Contract Packaging in Bethlehem, PA, formerly Alcan Packaging, stands at the forefront of pharmaceutical contract packaging. Their operation handles an extensive range of packaging configurations.
The facility regularly processes multiple size variations, from single-dose packets to bulk containers, working with diverse material compositions, including foil laminates, polymers, and composite materials. Each project presents unique shape requirements dictated by product specifications and client needs, requiring versatile and precise package date coding solutions.
Steel Type Technology in Modern Pharmaceutical Marking
The marking process employs sophisticated steel stamping dies that must meet exacting specifications. These precision-engineered components feature both flat and sharp-faced dies in a dual-die configuration for simultaneous marking. The dies are designed to be compatible with high-speed pouching machinery and are constructed from hardened steel for extended service life. Character heights can be customized from 2mm to 12mm, providing flexibility for various marking requirements.
Integration with Existing Systems
Durable Technologies' replacement dies are designed for seamless integration with various industry-standard packaging machines. Their solutions work perfectly with Avery Jones systems, Kwik-Lok T-Type machinery, Utility Arenco equipment, and Norwood marking systems. The dies are also compatible with Markem-Imaje solutions, Doboy packaging lines, Schmidt stamping systems, and Open Date marking technologies, ensuring broad applicability across different production environments.
 Avery |
 Jones |
 Kwik-Lok |
 T-Type |
 Utility |
 Arenco |
 Norwood |
 Markem |
 Doboy |
 Concave |
 Schmidt |
 Open Date |
Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance
Pharmaceutical package marking must adhere to strict FDA regulations and industry standards. The required information includes product lot numbers, expiration dates, manufacturing facility identification, product codes, and regulatory compliance symbols. These elements must be consistently and clearly marked on each package.
Supply Chain Excellence
"Durable Technologies has provided outstanding services to Alcan and since the acquisition by Amcor and that service level has increased to meet every challenge. We are especially pleased by your willingness to reach deep into the supply chain and clarify our requirements to sub-contractors who supply the base materials used to make the steel stamping dies," states Roy Ramsay, Amcor Buyer.
This testimonial underscores Durable Technologies' commitment to excellence across our entire operation. Our approach emphasizes supply chain transparency and robust vendor management. We maintain strict quality material sourcing practices while ensuring compliance with technical specifications. These efforts are part of its continuous service improvement initiative, which has helped keep our industry leadership position.
Technical Considerations in Die Manufacturing
The manufacturing of pharmaceutical marking dies requires precise attention to several key factors. Material selection begins with high-grade tool steel and incorporates proper heat treatment processes. Surface finishing requirements must be met precisely, while wear resistance properties are carefully engineered into each die. Corrosion prevention measures are implemented throughout the manufacturing process to ensure longevity.
Character engineering represents another crucial aspect of die manufacturing. The process involves precise depth calculations and maintaining sharp edge integrity. Character spacing must be optimized for clarity, while impact resistance is engineered into the design. Surface texture considerations play a vital role in ensuring consistent mark quality.
Future Developments
The pharmaceutical packaging industry continues to evolve with new requirements regularly emerging. Current trends point toward enhanced digital integration capabilities and more sophisticated traceability features. The industry also moves toward sustainable marking solutions while demanding improved efficiency metrics. Advanced material compatibility remains a key development area as new packaging materials enter the market.
The partnership between Durable Technologies and Amcor exemplifies how precision engineering in steel stamping dies can meet the demands of pharmaceutical packaging. This essential aspect of pharmaceutical manufacturing maintains its crucial role in ensuring product safety and compliance through continued innovation and attention to quality. The industry's future looks toward even greater precision and efficiency, with Durable Technologies positioned to continue leading these advancements.
