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outfeed conveyor. The ‘pick-and-place’ robots are The resulting leak detection system, now fully
controlled by a powerful iQ Platform PLC to ensure operational, can process 180 pMDI canisters per
exact synchronisation. This allows the robot to handle minute and reject individual defective items, rather
moving canisters without the need to stop the than entire batches. As a result, pharmaceutical
conveyor, avoiding any interruption on the line. manufacturers could benefit from substantial
Martin Gadsby, Director at Optimal Industrial reductions in waste generation, whilst optimising its
Automation, explains: “Synchronisation on this line is use of resources and the overall production plant.
critical because the canisters are unstable and may Nigel Penny comments: “It has been a real
topple unless the motion of the robots and conveyors pleasure working with Mitsubishi Electric and we are
matches perfectly.” Steve Kirby, Key Account Manager extremely satisfied with the project’s outcome. The
at Mitsubishi Electric, adds: “The iQ series PLC is company’s extensive capabilities in factory
ideal to meet the levels of speed and accuracy automation were crucial to deliver the high level of
required by the system. The controller executes performance and accuracy required by the production
command processes in a matter of nanoseconds. It and testing line. In addition, the expert engineers
also offers a high-speed data logger module, where established a close collaboration with Optimal and
the sampling function is synchronized with the the end customer in order to deliver a highly effective
sequence scan.” system and a smooth handover.”
This latter aspect further helped to create a Steve Kirby concludes: “We are delighted to have
comprehensive and intelligent set up. In effect, been involved in this project and help set up a highly
Mitsubishi Electric and Optimal allowed the PLC to effective system. The application proves how
interact with the gas analyser, process and log the advanced robots and automation equipment can
results of each individual pMDI test as well as offering improve quality control in highly regulated sectors
exportable reports of canister analytical data for each such as the pharmaceutical and life science industry.”
batch. www.gb3a.mitsubishielectric.com

April 2020 • INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY EXTRA! • p10