Precision valve supplier announces major machinery investment

Liverpool-based ChargePoint has acquired what it describes as a “first of its kind 5-axis machine” enabling it to speed up the production and delivery of larger diameter valves up to 350mm (14”), as part of a wider £1m investment.

The investment in the new machinery has reportedly been made due to the company experiencing greater market demand, driven by growth within therapeutic areas, including oncology and hormonal drug products.

Rising demand in the pharmaceutical industry has led to increased volumes of high potency active pharmaceutical ingredients (HPAPIs) being used in the production of tablets, capsules and other solid dosage forms.

Tony O’Sullivan, chief commercial officer at ChargePoint Technology, explained: “We are seeing an increase in demand from solid dose manufacturing companies, including big pharma firms and CMOs in the US and Europe, for large scale containment valve solutions.

“Our new machinery enables us to manufacture larger diameter valves, directly addressing this market need. In addition, our in-house manufacturing strategy provides us with absolute control over the quality of the final product so our customers can rest assured that they receive high-performing and reliable technology.

“Growth in the high-volume manufacture of generics, particularly in Asia, is also driving demand for larger containment valves, as there is a need to upgrade existing process equipment to safely replicate the production of higher potency off patent drugs, while ensuring drug quality and operator safety.”

The expectation from ChargePoint is that this segment will grow further in the future as the pharmaceutical landscape continues to evolve.

As such, ChargePoint Technology reportedly intends to invest further in the manufacturing capabilities at its facility over the coming three years. The company plans to continue to evolve its product design using the latest manufacturing methods to provide greater advancements in valve technology.