The blister is the most common pack for tablets and capsules. Choosing a blister machine starts with the question of which blister your product needs, and only then output and format. Here are the main criteria.
Thermoforming (PVC/ALU)
Cavities are formed from heated polymer film — PVC, PVC/PVDC and others. It is the most economical option, with transparent cavities that show the product. It suits most tablets and capsules that are not highly sensitive to moisture and light.
Cold forming (ALU/ALU)
Cavities are drawn from multilayer aluminium foil without heating. This blister gives almost complete protection against moisture, oxygen and light, so it is chosen for hygroscopic and light-sensitive products. Cavities are larger, so more material is used per blister.
Combined machines
If your portfolio includes different products, consider a machine that handles both thermoforming and cold forming after a change of format parts.
What else to consider
- Output: blisters or cycles per minute for your production volume.
- Forming area: how many blisters are formed per cycle and whether your sizes fit.
- Changeover: how quickly format parts can be changed if you run many products.
- Product feeding: tablets, capsules, ampoules, vials and syringes each need different feeding systems.
- Quality control: fill inspection cameras, printing and coding.
AT Engineering supplies blister machines for tablets, capsules, ampoules and syringes, as well as blister machine change parts. Contact us — describe your product and blister format and we will find a solution.
