Wirthwein Medical produces plastic components for the diagnostics, medical technology and pharmaceutical industries using a combination of injection molding and extrusion blow molding technologies as well as fully automated assembly systems. Together with a long-standing customer, the Wirthwein subsidiary has now successfully commissioned a fully interlinked production and manufacturing line for reagent containers. The installed large-scale assembly line combines the entire know-how from 15 years of production experience and is an excellent example of increased efficiency and resource conservation.
The new fully networked assembly line, which is operated in a class 7 clean room, is connected to two injection molding machines by several robot cells and transfer lines. The injection-molded semi-finished parts are transferred directly to the assembly line in a fully automated process. Thus, intermediate steps such as packaging and additional handling are dispensed with, which not only increases efficiency but also minimizes the risk of contamination and damage to the assembled test tubes. The injection molds were manufactured in-house by Wirthwein Medical's toolmaking department.
At the heart of the assembly line is the innovative laser welding technology, which ensures a 100% leak-proof connection of the semi-finished parts. The system continuously monitors the dimensions and tightness of the components using cameras and other state-of-the-art systems. The quality data is archived in accordance with GMP guidelines and can be traced back to the individual component level thanks to a DMC code that is applied to the component by laser. At the end of the process, the inspected components are automatically stored in trays and then sent for packaging.
Christoph Merhold, the project manager responsible for the automation line, emphasizes: " We focused on developing a lean and, above all, safe material flow in combination with highly efficient automation. These efforts lead to a significant increase in production output and at the same time guarantee higher product quality for our customers." He continues: "This achievement is the product of an impressive team effort by Wirthwein Medical and the customer's development team. It clearly emphasises our commitment to excellence in the industry."
The assembled test tubes are key components of diagnostic systems that are used by customers in fully automated blood analyzers and contribute to patient diagnosis.
Company profile Wirthwein Medical GmbH & Co. KG
Founded in 1946, Wirthwein Medical GmbH & Co. KG is today a high-performance system supplier in plastics processing and a development partner for plastic-based and customer-specific product solutions. With a focus on quality and innovation, Wirthwein Medical is internationally renowned in the diagnostics, medical technology and pharmaceutical industries - with high-precision components, packaging materials and systems. In addition, in-house products in the pharmaceutical sector complement the portfolio. Core competencies include development, design, toolmaking, injection molding and blow molding as well as a wide range of assembly, finishing and logistics services. The majority of production takes place in clean rooms in accordance with ISO 14644-1 class 7. The highest uniform quality and hygiene standards are ensured by a seamless, certified quality management system in accordance with ISO 13485, 9001, 15378, 14001 and 50001.
More than 330 employees work on an area of around 55,000 square meters at three locations in Mühltal and Ober-Ramstadt.
Wirthwein Medical - a company of the Wirthwein Group Since 2005, Wirthwein Medical GmbH & Co. KG has been a subsidiary of the internationally active, family-run Wirthwein Group. With 22 companies worldwide in Europe, Asia and the USA, the Wirthwein Group is close to its customers everywhere. More than 3,500 employees work for the Wirthwein Group in the Mobility, Rail Infrastructure, New Energy, Home Appliance, Medical and Interior Design business areas.