Pulsed Xenon Decontamination System for Nested Tub

Bringing positive peace of mind through the power of light

Nest tabs are containers used to transport syringes and other liquids. In the process of filling syringes with pharmaceuticals, after removing the nest tab containing the syringe from its outer packaging, the nest tab is moved to a Grade A (sterile area) filling area. At this point, there is concern about whether airborne bacteria may be attached to the nest tab. To alleviate this concern, Iwasaki Electric has prepared a Pulsed Xenon decontamination device for the outer packaging of nest tabs.

Air cleanliness levels in EU-GMP sterile pharmaceutical manufacturing areas (2008)

Maximum permissible particle count (particles/m³)
Non-working Working
grade 0.5um 5.0um 0.5um 5.0um
A(ISO 5) 3,520 20 3,520 20
B(ISO 7) 3,520 29 352,000 2,900
C(ISO 8) 352,000 2,900 3,520,000 29,000
D 3,520,000 29,000 - -
Non-working
All air conditioning systems have been installed and are operational. Manufacturing equipment is installed, and there are no workers present.
Working
All air conditioning equipment is operating under the set operating conditions and the prescribed number of workers are performing their duties.

merit

Pulsed Xenon Decontamination System for Nested Tub (illustration)
  • Decontaminated, safe nesting tabs can be used in Grade A containers.
  • Because decontamination can be performed before reaching Grade A, the products can be left open and ready to go
    → Workers do not need to open each product individually before putting them into the line.
  • In-line processing enables high-speed, continuous decontamination.

What is Pulsed Xenon decontamination?

High level of decontamination effect

Compared to conventional UV decontamination, the light output is instantaneous and extremely high , reaching up to 6D levels.


Low-pressure mercury lamp (medium output type) Low-pressure mercury lamp (high output type) Pulsed Xenon lamp
Irradiation time 16.5 seconds 3.8 seconds 1 pulse (less than 0.5 milliseconds)
Decontamination capacity 3D 3D 6D

UV light is emitted in a continuous spectrum.

Because the ultraviolet light wavelengths of 200-300 nm, which are most effective for decontamination, are emitted continuously rather than as emission lines, a greater decontamination effect can be expected.

Spectral distribution of a pulsed xenon lamp

Impact on the object

Because it uses a pulsed emission method and the irradiation is short, there is almost no degradation or heat effect on the object caused by ultraviolet or infrared light.

In-line automation improves productivity

Due to its short processing time , it can be integrated into filling lines and efficiently handles everything from small-batch to mass production.

Processing method Processing time
High-pressure steam approx. 60 minutes
Gas sterilization 12-18 hours
Formalin 12-14 hours
Pulsed Xenon 0.5-1 seconds

*This may vary depending on the object and conditions.

No residue, no post-treatment required, and safe.

Unlike treatments using gases or chemicals, this method leaves no residue, eliminating the need for secondary treatment. Furthermore, it uses mercury-free lamps, making it environmentally friendly and safe. It also does not generate harmful ozone, contributing to safety and reduced environmental impact.


Gas, chemicals Pulsed Xenon lamp
Safety Persistent and carcinogenic. No residue
Regulations on post-processing Emissions regulations apply. No restrictions

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