BIO-RAD RSL

Bio-Rad RSL is a Belgian manufacturing and research unit within the Bio-Rad Clinical Diagnostics group. RSL specializes in the production of HPLC accessories used in diagnostic kits for applications such as diabetes monitoring. The production of resins and HPLC cartridges is central to its operations.
Bio-Rad RSL supplies tubular stainless steel cartridges with diameters of approximately 6.35 and 9.525 mm and various lengths. Each cartridge is assigned a unique identification code. The identification code itself can range from 1 to 6 lines. The codes are printed lengthwise, and the lines must be distributed around the circumference of the cartridge. To achieve the required efficiency, the machine is designed to have a cycle time of 10–12 seconds per unit and be capable of operating autonomously for 4 hours (without any manual intervention).

IMA has developed the following solution:

• A vibrating feeder (Oku) with a feeding system to properly present the cartridges to the robot.

• The robot (Epson) picks up the cartridges and positions them in front of the laser engraver. They are then placed in a blister pack.

• The laser (Trumpf) etches the text onto the cartridges. A robotic arm with four grippers and a drag coupling ensures that the cartridges are etched at the exact location on the circumference, for up to six lines.

• A buffer and feeding system handles the feeding and removal of the blister packs.

• In addition, a special enclosure has been provided around the system, complete with the necessary access doors and inspection windows, which meets the strictest requirements regarding safety regulations for protection against direct and indirect laser light.

Mr. Chris Dewaele, general manager of Bio-Rad RSL, states
:“It’s fantastic to see that the machine has been operating almost flawlessly for a year now. IMA has succeeded in coordinating the suppliers of key components—such as the laser etcher and the robot—not only during development but also after release.”

For more information about this project, please contact Bart Aerens at 050 385 666 or at www.machinebouw.be.