In pharmaceutical manufacturing, every stage of the production process demands precision, traceability and reliability. Handling vials – small containers used for liquid formulations, lyophilised products and other sensitive pharmaceutical applications – requires particular care, especially when integrated into automated production lines.
To meet these requirements, PSAplast has developed a specialised picking crate designed to streamline vial handling, organisation and transfer between production stages, whether performed manually or by robotic systems.
Designed for pharmaceutical production environments
Vial filling, inspection and packaging operations require solutions that deliver:
• Secure positioning and protection of vials during handling and transport
• Compatibility with robotic systems and automated production lines
• Easy cleaning and efficient maintenance
• Quick, convenient access to the contents
• Efficient organisation throughout the production workflow
Developed with these requirements in mind, the PSAplast crate Ref. 6413 combines durability, ergonomic design and practical functionality to support the demanding needs of pharmaceutical manufacturing environments.
A removable door for greater flexibility
The key feature of this crate is its removable door, designed to facilitate vial picking and transfer to the next production stage, whether carried out by an operator or a robotic system.
This feature offers two major advantages:
1. Direct Access for Efficient Vial Transfer
Removing the door allows vials to be pushed directly and in a controlled manner towards the next stage of the manufacturing process, without the need to tilt, lift or handle the crate unnecessarily.
Even with the removable door in place, a dedicated cut-out around the handle area ensures that both crate handles remain fully accessible. This allows operators and robotic systems to handle the crate efficiently while maintaining convenient access for lifting and positioning.
2. Reliable Containment During Handling and Transport
When fitted, the removable door helps keep vials securely contained during:
• Rapid robotic arm movements
• Internal transfers between production stations
• Stacking and temporary storage
By helping to maintain the vials in their intended positions, the removable door reduces the risk of impacts, tipping and accidental falls during handling.
Engineered for automation and hygiene
The crate also features:
• Smooth surfaces for easier cleaning and disinfection
• Compatibility with automated handling and conveyor systems
• Precise geometry for stable and secure stacking
• Durable construction for demanding, high-frequency production environments
The crate can be adapted to accommodate vials of different diameters and heights, according to each customer’s specific requirements.
Practical solutions for evolving pharmaceutical processes
At PSAplast, we develop reusable plastic handling solutions designed to improve efficiency, safety and productivity across industrial operations.
Our vial handling crate reflects this commitment, combining practical design with the flexibility required by modern pharmaceutical production lines.
Looking to optimise vial handling in your production process? Contact PSAplast to discuss a solution.