In the pharmaceutical industry, packaging plays a critical role in ensuring the safety, stability, and efficacy of medicinal products. Among the most widely used packaging types are blister packaging and strip packaging. While both serve to protect pharmaceutical products such as tablets and capsules, they do so in different ways, with unique materials, machinery, and applications.
In this article, we explore the key differences between blister packaging and strip packaging under the brand of Zhejiang Jiangnan Pharmaceutical Machinery, a trusted manufacturer of medicine manufacturing machines.
We will also take a closer look at related equipment such as the DPP 80 blister packing machine and the automatic strip packing machine, both integral to modern pharmaceutical packaging lines.
Blister packaging is a form of unit-dose packaging that encloses individual tablets or capsules between a formed plastic cavity and a backing material, usually an aluminum foil. The plastic cavity is typically made from PVC, PVDC, or other thermoformable materials. The process involves heating a plastic sheet to form blisters (pockets) and then sealing the product inside with a heat-sealable backing.
Blister packaging is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry due to its ability to provide excellent protection against environmental factors like moisture, oxygen, and light. It also offers tamper evidence and is user-friendly for consumers with features like push-through backing.
Blister packaging machines, such as the DPP 80 blister packing machine manufactured by Zhejiang Jiangnan Pharmaceutical Machinery, are designed to deliver high efficiency and precision. The DPP 80 is ideal for small to medium-scale production and supports both aluminum/plastic and aluminum/aluminum blister packs.
Strip packaging is another type of unit-dose packaging where individual doses of a product are enclosed between two layers of film or foil. Unlike blister packs, strip packaging does not involve forming cavities for each tablet or capsule. Instead, the drug product is placed between two continuous strips of film that are heat-sealed around each unit.
Strip packaging is commonly used for products that are sensitive to moisture and light. The continuous sealing around each tablet provides a hermetic seal, which offers an excellent barrier against environmental conditions.
Automatic strip packing machines, like those produced by Zhejiang Jiangnan Pharmaceutical Machinery, are capable of handling high-speed operations with consistent sealing quality. These machines are particularly suitable for packaging uncoated tablets, lozenges, and some types of capsules.
When comparing strip packaging and blister packaging, several factors come into consideration:
Feature | Strip Packaging | Blister Packaging |
Manufacturing Process | Simpler, less equipment | Complex, higher initial investment |
Tamper Evidence | Less evident | Highly evident |
Durability | Flexible, less crush-resistant | Rigid, highly crush-resistant |
Shelf Life | 2-3 years | 3-5 years |
Cost-Effectiveness | 15-20% lower packaging costs | 10-15% higher packaging costs |
User Convenience | Easy tear-off, compact | Clear dose visibility, organized |
Customization | High flexibility (95% surface area) | Moderate options (70-80% surface area) |
Material | Aluminum foil, plastic film (PE, PP) | PVC, PVDC, PCTFE, aluminum foil |
Environmental Impact | Generally more recyclable | More challenging to recycle |
Protection | Good moisture and light barrier | Excellent moisture, oxygen, and light barrier |
Both packaging methods have their advantages depending on the product type, required shelf life, and user convenience.
The choice of materials significantly impacts the functionality and cost-effectiveness of pharmaceutical packaging.
Blister Packaging Materials:
Forming Film: PVC, PVDC, PET, or cold-form aluminum
Lidding Material: Aluminum foil, paper, or composite films
Sealants: Heat-sealable coatings compatible with forming films
Strip Packaging Materials:
Films: Aluminum foil, polyethylene, polyester, or combinations
Sealants: Heat-sealable lacquers for consistent sealing
Barrier Properties: Higher due to the full enclosure of each dose
Blister packaging materials are more customizable for visibility and branding, while strip packaging materials offer superior protection and are generally used for highly sensitive products.
Each packaging method has unique advantages based on its design and material composition.
Strip Packaging Advantages:
Superior barrier protection against moisture, oxygen, and light
Full enclosure reduces contamination risk
Ideal for sensitive or unstable drugs
Compact and lightweight for ease of transport
Blister Packaging Advantages:
Enhanced product visibility for consumers
Easier access with push-through features
Lower material costs and waste
Compatible with a wide range of pharmaceutical forms
Zhejiang Jiangnan Pharmaceutical Machinery offers both types of packaging solutions, ensuring flexibility for pharmaceutical manufacturers depending on their specific needs.
Selecting the appropriate packaging method involves evaluating several factors:
Product Sensitivity: If the product is highly sensitive to moisture or light, strip packaging may be the better option.
Consumer Convenience: Blister packaging offers easy access and is more user-friendly.
Production Volume: Blistering machines in pharmaceutical industry, like the DPP 80 blister packing machine, are ideal for high-volume production.
Cost Considerations: Blister packaging generally uses less material, reducing cost.
Regulatory Requirements: Some medications require specific packaging types for compliance.
Zhejiang Jiangnan Pharmaceutical Machinery provides consultation and customization to help pharmaceutical companies choose the right packaging machinery and materials to meet their operational goals.
Blistering machines play a pivotal role in medicine manufacturing machines. These machines automate the packaging process, enhancing both hygiene and efficiency. The DPP 80 blister packing machine from Zhejiang Jiangnan Pharmaceutical Machinery is a compact, versatile model suitable for small batch production and clinical trials.
This machine features:
High-speed output with precise dosing
Compatibility with a range of materials
Easy-to-operate controls and minimal maintenance
It is ideal for capsules, tablets, and even small medical devices. Its compact footprint makes it suitable for both large-scale pharmaceutical companies and smaller operations.
The automatic strip packing machine is designed for high-efficiency, continuous packaging of tablets and capsules. Zhejiang Jiangnan Pharmaceutical Machinery’s automatic strip packing machine is built with advanced technology to ensure accurate sealing and consistent quality.
Key features include:
Servo-controlled operations for precision
Continuous film feeding and sealing
Easy changeover for different products
Compliance with GMP standards
This machine is particularly useful for packaging products that require high barrier protection and long shelf life.
Understanding the difference between blister packaging and strip packaging is crucial for pharmaceutical manufacturers aiming to ensure product integrity, regulatory compliance, and consumer satisfaction. While blister packaging offers ease of use and cost-effectiveness, strip packaging delivers superior protection for sensitive drugs.
Zhejiang Jiangnan Pharmaceutical Machinery, a leading brand in medicine manufacturing machines, provides state-of-the-art solutions such as the DPP 80 blister packing machine and automatic strip packing machine to meet diverse pharmaceutical packaging needs. By carefully evaluating product characteristics and production requirements, companies can make informed decisions and enhance their packaging efficiency and product safety.
Whether you're starting a new pharmaceutical line or upgrading your packaging operations, Zhejiang Jiangnan’s reliable and innovative equipment can be the key to your success in the competitive pharmaceutical market.
