Aluminum in Pharmaceuticals (Applications & Benefits)
Aluminum is the metal of choice for manufacturers of pharmaceutical products and medical devices. As a packaging material, aluminum is flexible and strong. Instruments made from aluminum are easily cleaned and sterilized. Aluminum coatings add and improve properties to medical and dental devices.
Strict oversight governs both the medical and pharmaceutical manufacturing industries. From blister packaging to dental tools, products must meet guidelines set by multiple regulating agencies. The natural properties of aluminum are perfect for the manufacturing demands in the medical and pharmaceutical industries.
Benefits of Aluminum in the Pharmaceutical Industry?
For medical devices and pharma packaging, aluminum is a top choice because it is:
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Airtight: Airtight aluminum seals offer protection from bacteria, humidity and contact with the environment.
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Flexible: Pharmaceutical packaging relies on aluminum for a balance of strength and flexibility.
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Durable: Aluminum products are naturally resistant to corrosion and will not deteriorate.
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Versatile: Aluminum is available in a variety of forms, accepting coloring treatments with ease.
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Moldable: From foils to the casting of medical devices, aluminum is a moldable material that retains its properties.
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Environmental: Aluminum is 100% reusable and recyclable, making it a top choice for green and LEED-certified manufacturers.
How is Aluminum Used in Medical Products?
In the medical industry, aluminum use is widespread. Manufacturers of medical and dental devices cast new components and instruments using aluminum materials. Aluminum alloy coatings are available to enhance and protect products across the medical industry.
For its ease of sterilization and natural resistance to corrosion, aluminum is used to manufacture:
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Instruments: Used for equipment subject to repeated sterilization procedures, such as surgical and dental tools and reusable trays
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Medical equipment: Lightweight, easy to clean and non-toxic — perfect for use in wearable medical equipment
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Hospital equipment: Preferred hospital material, from bed frames to small brackets and hoses
Anodization procedures enhance medical equipment by increasing durability or adding other features. The precision blending of other metals into liquefied aluminum creates compounds called alloys. These alloys are applied to medical devices and equipment through a process known as anodization. Depending on the metals used, anodization can boost sterilization, improve wear or introduce many other benefits.
How is Aluminum Used in Pharmaceutical Products?
Pharmaceutical companies use aluminum packing to protect their products. Aluminum packaging protects contents from exposure to contaminants. Aluminum foils and tubes are strong, enhancing packaging resistance to tampering. In pharmaceuticals, aluminum products are primarily used for:
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Blister packs: Flexible and durable in thin sheets, aluminum is the ideal metal for pharmaceutical blister packaging.
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Tubing: Removing the need for preservatives, aluminum tubes protect ointments and gels from exposure and evaporation.
Aluminum packaging accepts treatments well. During the production process, manufacturers can apply colors, coatings and printing to blister packs and tubing.
Get Aluminum Consulting for Your Pharmaceutical Company
Manufacturing with aluminum offers incredible benefits for pharmaceutical and medical companies. Take advantage of the latest aluminum market intelligence and analysis from HARBOR Aluminum Intelligence. From today's prices to tomorrow's forecasts, HARBOR is the Aluminum Authority. For more information on aluminum consulting services, expert witness services, forecasting and more, contact HARBOR today.
