Special Dispensation

A number of these techniques have already been adopted, including the use of optical, infra-red, ultrasound, vacuum decay and x-ray inspection methods. Traditionally, these have primarily been used for batch control through various batch sampling and inspection strategies. However, there is increasing demand for in-line inspection of all products, particularly where they have high commercial value or involve high dosage levels.

Applications for in-line NDT of products are as varied as the products themselves. Typical inspection scenarios may entail: checking fill levels in bottles and tubs of drugs, in liquid, powder, and even tablet forms; checking for missing tablets in blister packs; detecting contaminants (such as metal or glass) in dressings; and checking for correctly assembled devices.