Harpak-ULMA Introduces the ARTIC SS Chevron: A Revolutionary Step in Medical and Pharmaceutical Packaging
Harpak-ULMA, a global leader in smart and connected packaging solutions, has unveiled its latest innovation: the ARTIC SS Chevron, an advanced horizontal flow wrap machine engineered specifically for medical and pharmaceutical applications. This state-of-the-art system sets a new benchmark in packaging efficiency by significantly reducing material usage without compromising sterility, product integrity, or ease of access. By focusing on sustainability and cost-effectiveness, Harpak-ULMA is redefining the standards of medical device packaging.
Sustainability and Cost-Reduction: A New Approach to Medical Packaging
In today’s highly regulated medical packaging industry, sustainability and cost-efficiency are key concerns. Traditional thermoforming solutions often require two separate rolls of film to form a sealed package, leading to higher material costs and environmental waste. The ARTIC SS Chevron addresses these challenges head-on by utilizing a single roll of film, folded to create a secure and aseptic seal. This innovation eliminates the need for premade pouches or secondary packaging films, providing manufacturers with more control over their packaging process while significantly reducing material waste.
Beyond waste reduction, the ARTIC SS Chevron lowers operational costs by eliminating the need to purchase and validate a second film. The cost and time associated with validating materials for sterility and compatibility in medical applications are substantial. By requiring only a single film, this machine simplifies the regulatory validation process, ensuring that manufacturers can bring their products to market faster and more efficiently.
Designed for Low-Height Medical Devices
The ARTIC SS Chevron is particularly well-suited for low-profile medical devices, including but not limited to:
- Bandages
- Gel pads
- Wound care products
- Sterile dressings
These types of medical supplies often require precision-sealed, sterile packaging with minimal waste. By employing an advanced flow wrap design, the ARTIC SS Chevron ensures that each package is right-sized to its contents, reducing excess material use and optimizing storage and transport efficiency.
Quick Changeovers and Enhanced Versatility
One of the standout features of the ARTIC SS Chevron is its ability to adapt quickly to different packaging formats. The machine is designed to allow for rapid format and appearance changes with minimal downtime. A simple wheel adjustment is all it takes to transition between different package sizes or seal styles, making it an invaluable asset for manufacturers handling multiple product lines.
Unlike conventional packaging machines that require complex reconfigurations for each product type, the ARTIC SS Chevron offers a streamlined and user-friendly interface. This capability not only increases productivity but also minimizes waste associated with trial-and-error setups, further contributing to cost savings and sustainability efforts.
Aseptic Sealing with Multiple Options
Seal integrity is a critical requirement in medical packaging, ensuring that products remain sterile and protected from contamination. The ARTIC SS Chevron offers multiple sealing options, including:
- Chevron seals – Ideal for easy peelability and sterility assurance.
- Sine wave seals – Provides a flexible, visually appealing alternative.
- Straight-pack seals – A classic, robust seal option for varied applications.
These sealing choices allow manufacturers to tailor their packaging approach based on specific product needs while maintaining compliance with stringent medical industry regulations.
Integration of Tyvek® for Cost-Effective Sterilization
A unique feature of the ARTIC SS Chevron is its use of integrated Tyvek® webbing, which provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly sterilization solution. Unlike traditional methods that require an entire sheet of Tyvek®, this machine efficiently utilizes strip welding technology to attach only the necessary portion, further reducing material consumption.
Tyvek® is widely recognized for its superior barrier properties, which prevent microbial contamination while allowing for sterilization through methods such as:
- Ethylene Oxide (ETO) sterilization
- Gamma radiation sterilization
Additionally, the package’s offset edge design ensures that medical personnel can quickly and easily separate the seal, providing fast and aseptic access to critical medical supplies.
The Impact of “Right-Sized Packaging” in Medical Manufacturing
Nick Kirichkow, Product Manager at ULMA Packaging, emphasizes that sustainability goes beyond simple recycling efforts. He notes that true sustainability in medical packaging is achieved through “right-sized packaging,” which minimizes excess material usage at every stage of the production process.
When people think of sustainability, they usually focus on ‘recycling’ – but that’s just part of the story. Reducing waste throughout the production process by using as little material as possible – including essentially right-sizing the package design – can dramatically impact a producer’s ability to achieve sustainability goals.”
The ARTIC SS Chevron embodies this philosophy by offering packaging solutions that use only the necessary amount of film, lowering both material costs and the carbon footprint associated with excess packaging waste.
A Game-Changer in Medical Packaging
The ARTIC SS Chevron is poised to revolutionize an industry that has traditionally relied on preformed packaging and high-changeover equipment. By forming packages in-house using a single roll of film, this system provides:
- Improved control over production processes
- Reduction in material validation requirements
- Significant cost savings and environmental benefits
For manufacturers, this means greater flexibility, improved regulatory compliance, and enhanced efficiency, making the ARTIC SS Chevron an essential addition to modern medical packaging operations.
Live Demonstration at Sustainable Manufacturing Expo 2025
To showcase its cutting-edge capabilities, Harpak-ULMA will present the ARTIC SS Chevron at the Sustainable Manufacturing Expo 2025 in Anaheim, California. The event, scheduled to take place from February 4 to 6, 2025, will feature live demonstrations of the machine in action.
Visitors to booth 901 will have the opportunity to see firsthand how the ARTIC SS Chevron’s single-film technology, Tyvek® integration, and smart-connected design combine to create a groundbreaking packaging solution.
Experience the Innovation at Harpak-ULMA’s Customer Experience Centers
For those unable to attend the expo, Harpak-ULMA offers live demonstrations at its Customer Experience Centers in:
- Boston, MA
- Atlanta, GA
- Costa Mesa, CA
To schedule a hands-on demonstration and explore the ARTIC SS Chevron’s full capabilities, interested parties can call (508) 884-2500 or visit Harpak-ULMA’s website for more information.
