The right stuff: What thermoforming offers as a packaging solution

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Todd McDonald, director of sales & marketing at TEQ, examines the benefits thermoforming offers in packaging.

As the world grows ever more technologically advanced, the importance of protecting that technology has become more vital.

Improvements to packaging design are now a necessity. At the same time, there is a demand to deliver products in a packaging solution that adheres to strict specifications while using less production energy and material as well as faster production times.

So, what is thermoforming?

Cleanroom thermoforming is widely used for the production and packaging of pharmaceuticals and medical equipment.

This method of thermoforming is carried out in an ISO certified cleanroom meaning any particulates circulating in the air are kept to a minimum.

Thermoform packaging is extensively used to safeguard sterile instruments and implants. This packaging method permits the use of lightweight, clear plastic enclosures that stop microbial and dust particles from contaminating the sterile item.

They also make possible the product’s secure storage for lengthy periods whilst maintaining the sterile environment.

The benefits of thermoforming 

This advanced technology has established itself as a preferred option for many industries and applications, including medical devices, with the main benefit of this packaging solution the clear cost efficiency it offers. The stiffness of this type of packaging material also allows for the creation of smaller units and space-saving benefits. The stiff packaging also offers a barrier to odours and resistance to oil and grease.

Packaging from cleanroom thermoforming also has the capacity to offer advanced protection of medical devices and the importance of this cannot be underestimated as the packaging of medical devices is as important as the product itself. Once the packaging’s integrity is compromised, sterility is lost and the device is ruined. This is why thermoforming is an ideal solution.

Thermoformed plastic packaging can offer several other advantages including:

  • Product Orientation: A nurse may need to quickly confirm a product’s orientation and how to grab it. With a thermoformed tray, a nurse can be sure that the medical device stays securely in place in the intended location so he/she can remove it swiftly and confidently. 
  • Handling Assurance: To ensure a device doesn’t compromise sterility, a nurse needs to control the movement of a device as its package is opened. A thermoformed package is more likely to ensure there is no unnecessary rotation or accidental removal. 
  • Clarity: A nurse can find it beneficial to see and identify the product clearly so he/she can better present the device or see any potential defects. 
  • Consistent Opening Experience: Incorporating a good peal area in the package design can allow a nurse an easy access point for pealing the lidding back from the package. 
  • Additional protection: With rigid plastic, a medical device is protected in sensitive device areas. For example, a package can be designed so a syringe will not get depressed. 
  • More ergonomic: A pouch can require both wrists to twist to open, putting repetitive strain on both of the nurse’s wrists. With a sealed thermoformed tray, only one hand is opening the seal while the other is holding the tray in place.