Large-Scale Insulin Pen Production

HAHN Automation Group Scales up Production and Enhances Efficiency

Our customer, a prominent CMO (Contract Manufacturing Organization) of medical devices, faced growing demand for highquality insulin pens. Their operator tended injection molding process was a bottleneck – limiting capacity, increasing inconsistency, and driving up labor and defect-related costs.

#MedTech #DrugDeliveryDevices #InsulinPen #VarioTIP

 

  • Transition from manual to fully-automated process
  • End-to-end traceability
  • 100% inline visual control

 

Challenge

The customer faced increasing demand for their high-quality insulin pens. The operator tended injection molding process used to produce these components was limiting production capacity and was prone to inconsistencies. The company aimed to implement an automated injection molding system to achieve better product quality, increase throughput, and reduce manufacturing costs.

 

Developing a Solution

The project was executed in two phases: proof of principle and full-scale implementation. A feasibility study assessed automation technologies like robotic arms, vision systems, and process control software. A pilot line with integrated automation was established, featuring a prototype mold and linear robot systems for part removal and assembly. Real-time monitoring and inspection improved cycle times and consistency. 

In phase two, the automated system was scaled up, with optimized programming, refined mold designs, and expansion across production lines. Additional equipment was added, and staff were trained via comprehensive programs and standard procedures. Full-scale production began with ongoing monitoring and a continuous improvement strategy.

 

Molding Automation Core Technologies

  1. High-speed Part Removal from IMM
  2. Marking
  3. Vision Inspection
  4. Bulk or Tray Packing

Cycle time: down to 5 sec.
Output: up to approx. 400 ppm
Technical Availability: > 97%
Cleanroom Classification: up to ISO 7 Standard

 

Assembly Core Technologies

  1. High-Speed Feeding Systems via Tray or Bulk including Special Spring Feeding
  2. Handling of Pre-filled Syringes (PFS) or Cartridges
  3. Force Monitored Assembly and Silicon Coating
  4. Vision Inspection
  5. Marking
  6. Bulk or Tray Packing

Cycle time: down to 4 sec.
Output: up to 150 ppm
Technical Availability: > 95%
Cleanroom Classification: up to ISO 7 Standard
Machine Design as per US FDA and EU GMP Requirements

The automation initiative significantly improved efficiency, throughput, and quality. The CMO met rising demand and increased production capacity by 30% without additional labor costs. The customer reduced operational costs by 20%, and ensured consistent compliance with regulatory standards. This project established a scalable model for future automation in medical device production.