Vaccine Distribution via Cold Chain Aided by IoT
Packaging engineers know that an engineered and robust package system must maintain product temperature within a cold, narrow margin from manufacture to the end-user for many vaccines. It turns out that the importance and complexity of cold chain logistics make it an ideal application for the Internet of Things' platforms and devices, starting with blockchain technology. Read more
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Webinar: Test Method Validation at WESTPAK
The “Test Method Validation at WESTPAK” webinar presented by Lab Manager Andrew Thomas at the Sponsorship Spotlight, ISTA TransPack Forum 2021, is now available. Andrew discusses TMV’s drivers, what is required, the packaging tests affected, and how WESTPAK has responded. Locate recording and slide deck in Past Webinars here
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EU MDR Takes Effect on 26 May 2021
The 4-year transition period is over. Medical device manufacturers with products in the EU market must now obtain a CE-mark approval under the Medical Devices Regulation (2017/745) (MDR). A primary goal of the MDR and the supporting ISO 11607-1 (2019) guidance document is to improve patient safety by reducing the risk of microbial infection resulting from sterile barrier packaging failures. Read more
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Performance Testing of Shipping Systems
ASTM D4169 can be used to evaluate rough handling’s effects on unitized loads and large shipping containers. A referenced protocol therein is ASTM D6179; one of its test methods, the Rotational Edge Drop Test, can assist in understanding the integrity and stability of a large load or crate. The Tip Test and Tipover Test, alternative drop test procedures, are helpful to assess the resistance to the tipping of tall or top-heavy shipping units. Read more
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Certified Amazon Packaging Test Lab
Amazon approves WESTPAK to test and qualify the following package certification types: Amazon Prep-Free Packaging (PFP), Ships-In-Own-Container (SIOC), Frustration-Free Packaging (FFP), Amazon Over Boxing (OB). The respective tests are essential to vendors, sellers, and manufacturers using packaging that must comply with Amazon’s requirements. Read more
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Validated Testing: Accelerated Aging per ASTM F1980
WESTPAK provides validated testing for medical device packaging per ISO 11607-1 (2019) for manufacturers whose products must comply with the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) 2017/745, taking effect on 26 May 2021. One such test, Accelerated Aging, accelerates the effects of time on a Sterile Barrier System (SBS) to establish the device's shelf-life parameters. Additional validated tests available include Gross Leak Detection (ASTM F2096), Seal Strength (ASTM F88), and Visual Inspection (ASTM F1886). Read more
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Summer of Summers for a Vacation
As the US slowly migrates away from covid’s 15-month-long hold, the vacation of '21 is likely one you don't want to miss. Besides, you know you deserve it. And if you have a family, they do too. But things are a bit different now, especially with state and national parks. If you haven’t already, it’s time to start planning and getting some reservations made. Read more
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Impact Testing with the HITS
WESTPAK’s Horizontal Impact Test System (HITS) is a valuable reliability test tool for large products, including tall server racks. The programmable HITS is capable of handling 5,000-pound loads at speeds up to 10 mph. Engineers can fine-tune impact velocity and pulse shape to precisely the desired waveform. Watch the HITS
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World’s Best Remote Bars
Thinking about a vacation where there shouldn’t be too many people? Here’s an idea: One of the world’s best remote bars! The Niyama resort in the Maldives with its underwater restaurant and bar Subsix (pictured) might be such a place. Read more
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