Blister Packaging Equipment

Blister packaging equipment is used to create packages with a high degree of tamper evidence and protection from external elements. The machines seal a plastic or foil shell, or blister, to a cardboard or metal laminated sheet, with the product enclosed in between. Equipment is highly sophisticated and can be used in very high speed packaging operations. One method of producing these packs is through a thermoforming process, where the plastic is heated and then molded into a particular shape that conforms to the product. The other method is cold forming, where aluminum laminated film is pressed into the backing through a stamping process. The primary advantage of thermoforming is visibility, as products can be visually inspected without compromising the package in any way. This is an important advantage in industries where compliance is an issue. The thermoforming process is also capable of higher production rates.

Industries and Applications

Blisters are widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for unit dose packaging of tablets, lozenges, and capsules. In addition to tamper evidence and visibility (when plastic blisters are used), blister packaging equipment creates a barrier that provides the extended shelf life necessary for these products. Packaging has become more sophisticated and consumer friendly in recent years, with the package including dosage directions for prescription drug users. Most packages in medical and pharmaceutical packages use the push-through opening method, but stronger, harder to open materials are used for medical devices and sterilized equipment. Consumer products is another industry where blister packaging equipment is widely used. Products commonly packaged with this method include toys and games, consumer electronics, hardware products, and promotional items. While many machines are designed to run at high speed, rotary style thermoformers are available for medium production environments, and single unit, table top machines can be purchased at reasonable cost for low volume operations.

Advantages of Blister Packaging Equipment in Retail

Because this method of packaging is a strong deterrent to pilferage, manufacturers of consumer products often prefer it for products that appear on the retail shelf or in point of purchase, or POP, displays. Tamper evidence and pilferage prevention are especially important for electronic games and any high value product. In addition, the pack’s backing, usually visible behind the product, allows manufacturers to use high impact graphics to create a strong branding and sales message. Blisters also provide a high level of product protection against impact and environmental factors. One potential drawback of this packaging, the difficulty in opening, has been addressed with the development of various easy-open designs that enable consumers to open packages without the use of scissors or knives. Heritage Pioneer, with years of experience in the selection, sale, installation, integration, service, and fulfillment of blister style packaging, can assist in all aspects of this automation option. Link back to the Blister Packaging Equipment main page, our packaging solutions main page or back to the top of this blister packaging article.