SPE Series Pharma Grade Closure Processing Equipment

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Sterile continuity is the vision. The SPE Series is ideal for treating closures for containers normally used in the pharmaceutical industry, where continuous sterility has to be maintained between different phases. The pharma grade closure processing system fully integrates all the phases of the treatment in an all in one solution:

  • Pre-treatment handling
  • Washing, rinsing & siliconizing
  • Sterilization, drying and cooling
  • Sterile delivery

Compatible with different loading/unloading systems, the unit can also be interfaced with vaporized hydrogen peroxide isolator.

Flexibility and versatility characterize the series devices, available in five models with five different chamber capacities – with a chamber volume ranging from 40 to 240 liters (1.4 to 20 cu ft). The high-quality AISI 316 L chamber with a round cross-section and two torispherical heads ensures an even distribution of load in separate baskets for optimized final results. In addition, Steelco produces a “Closure washer” version (SPE-W series) that only provides washing, rinsing, siliconizing, drying, and cooling phases.

The SPE Series is designed, manufactured, validated, and documented according to the latest global practices and standards to facilitate customers’ compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs).

Key Features
  • Flexible SolutionsFive different chamber capacities, from 40 to 240 liters (1.4 to 20 cu ft) for answering the needs of both small or large scale production
  • Maximum SafetyReducing or eliminating the number of manipulations during the various process steps effectively reduces the risk of contamination by external factors.
  • Endotoxin and Particle ReductionValidated particle reduction> 98% particles > 50μm. Endotoxin reduction, guaranteed minimum 3 logs. Uniform silicone distribution on individual stoppers and the entire batch
  • Effective and Fast DryingUnparalleled drying efficacy, residual humidity < 0.03%. Over 60% process time reduction compared to traditional systems
  • Easy MaintenanceThe machine is developed considering technicians’ access to the maintenance and service area – easy access to all components conforming to safety regulations.
  • Remote AssistanceThe onboard VPN router communicates on the local network with the PLC and the HMI and allows remote connection from a computer, tablet, or smartphone without going on-site.

Steelco pharma grade machines comply with the applicable requirements of the following regulations and industry accepted guidelines:

  • cGMP
  • GAMP 5
  • FDA Regulation 21 CFR Part 11, 211, 820
  • Eudralex
  • ASME BPE
  • PDA Technical Report
  • European and US Pharmacopeia
  • ISPE Guidelines
  • UL and CSA (on demand)
ModelUseful volumeVolume per basket Number of baskets
SPE-4040 Lt / 1.4 cu ft10 Lt / 0.35 cu ft4
SPE-8080 Lt / 2.8 cu ft10 Lt / 0.35 cu ft8
SPE-120120 Lt / 4.2 cu ft10 Lt / 0.35 cu ft12
SPE-180180 Lt / 6.4 cu ft10 Lt / 0.35 cu ft18
SPE-240240 Lt / 8.5 cu ft12 Lt / 0.42 cu ft20

Designed for the complete treatment of closure devices for pharmaceutical products such as:

  • Rubber and plastic stoppers
  • Plungers
  • Tip caps
  • Aluminum caps and seals
  • Other similar components

Chamber and jacket made of high-quality AISI 316L stainless steel with no sharp edges to prevent injuries to equipment operators or damage to the closures. The even distribution of load in separate baskets avoids excessive accumulation of material during the treatment phases with the following advantages:

  • Elimination of the mechanical strains on the material.
  • Gentle handling systems and accurate quantity check.
  • Optimization of the washing and rinsing phases: effective endotoxin and particle reduction
  • Even silicone distribution.
  • Optimization of the sterilization process: homogeneous steam penetration and temperature distribution.
  • Unparalleled drying efficacy.
  • High flexibility for the product loading and unloading.

The chamber can be wholly inspected through a loading door, and the basket doors have automatic opening and closure.

Steelco can install new equipment into an existing automation system by adopting a simple (HMI) or more sophisticated (SCADA) man-machine interface. User-friendly control systems developed according to the latest ISPE GAMP© Guidelines and designed for FDA 21 CFR Part 11, EU Annex 11 compliance. System platforms available include Siemens or Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, which are completely integrated with the client’s IS system, and comprehensive network services such as integration with MES can be provided. In addition, in compliance with the individual internal policies of each customer, Steelco Group offers remote service access by using virtual private networks to ensure the confidentiality and safety of all transferred data.

Steelco offers multiple solutions for sterile delivery, optimizing process flexibility according to our clients’ different scenarios and requirements. Answering the needs both of smaller-scale production and more extensive stopper processing facilities, we offer various options for the automatic unloading:

  • Into a thermosealer unit with single or double bag
  • Into RTP ported bags
  • Into Sterile transfer container
  • Direct unloading into filling line bowl within isolator