Newsletter_06-2026_EN

EN 06/26

The cleanroom

cleaning

market

Bild: AdobeStock 768595211

TITEL

Bild: AdobeStock 768595211

The cleanroom

cleaning market

With the current new edition of the analysis of the German cleanroom

market, the dynamic submarket of cleanroom cleaning is once

again coming into focus. The market is divided into three core segments:

cleaning by specialized building service providers, usually

active nationwide in Germany; smaller regional specialists; and inhouse

cleaning by the staff of cleanroom operators.

A look at the development since the 2024 market analysis shows:

competition is in motion. Among the leading providers, the areas

of managed cleaning have shifted significantly in some cases. The

cleanroom cleaning market has traditionally been considered particularly

volatile – not least because operators of large cleanroom

complexes regularly re-tender their cleaning services. In addition to

evaluating the service quality of existing providers, another factor is

increasingly coming to the forefront: in an environment of noticeable

cost increases, the search for efficiency and savings potentials is

gaining significant importance – and is driving additional dynamics

in the market.

At the same time, the market structure is changing. While large

providers like Dussmann, Apleona, or Dr. Sasse continue to hold

significant market shares, a considerable part of the growth is currently

occurring in small and medium-sized cleanroom areas. This

is where new opportunities are opening up – especially for regional

providers. Because where qualified skilled personnel are lacking onsite

or where building new teams is economically unviable for large

providers, smaller, regionally anchored specialists can leverage their

strengths and increasingly gain market share.

The result: a market in motion – with new competitive dynamics,

changing growth fields, and exciting prospects for established players

as well as agile specialists.

macrom Marketingresearch & Consult

Kölner Str. 6

D 51429 Bergisch Gladbach

Telefon: +49 (0)2204 963 555 1

Telefax: +49 (0)2204 979 635 0

eMail: jansen@macrom.de

Internet: http://www.macrom.de

www.reinraum.de | www.cleanroom-online.com NEWSLETTER | Ausgabe DE 06-2026

Seite 2/67

REGISTER

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PLANNING

HAS BEGUN

2027

JUNE 2026

Dear cleanroom professionals,

“Nothing is as constant as change” (Heraclitus).

And so Reinraum Online is constantly evolving

its offering. For us, change means expansion

and further development, more services.

In this instance, Reinraum Online is now available

in additional languages. Whilst you were previously

able to read “RO” in German and English, we are

now using AI to translate the content into seven

further languages. In doing so, we are keeping pace

with the business world, which is expanding into

other countries, whilst also bringing us closer

to our readers, who are now based not only in

the DACH (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) region.

You can find an overview of the languages

on the following two pages, and a brief summary of

the contents of this newsletter can be found here:

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> Der Markt der Reinraum-Reinigung

> Swiss Biotech Report 2026

> Wie Aceton die Integrität von Handschuhen

im Labor beeinträchtigt

> ASYS Group realisiert skalierbares

GMP Reinraumkonzept für implantcast

> Schnelllauftore für Inertisierung – zuverlässige

Luftdichtheit für sauerstoffreduzierte Bereiche

> Freudenberg Medical bringt CleanAssure

auf den Markt, einen kontrollierten

> Reinraum der ISO-Klasse 5 für sterile

Einwegbaugruppen

> Ohm eröffnet modernisierten Reinraum

für Quantenforschung und additiv gefertigte

Elektronik

> . . .

Mit freundlichem Gruß

Reinhold Schuster


Seite 3/67

Wir sind dort, wo die Wirtschaft ist. KI Übersetzung macht dies möglich.

We are where the business is. AI translation makes this possible.

Nous sommes là où se trouve l‘économie. C‘est la traduction par IA qui rend cela possible.

Ott vagyunk, ahol a gazdaság is. Ezt a mesterséges intelligencia segítségével megvalósított fordítás teszi lehetővé.

Jesteśmy tam, gdzie działa gospodarka. Umożliwia to tłumaczenie oparte na sztucznej inteligencji.

Jsme tam, kde se odehrává ekonomický život. Umožňuje to překlad pomocí umělé inteligence.

Siamo presenti ovunque si muova l‘economia. La traduzione basata sull‘intelligenza artificiale lo rende possibile.

Estamos donde está la economía. La traducción con IA lo hace posible.

Wij zijn waar de economie zich bevindt. AI-vertaling maakt dit mogelijk.

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Strong development with new records in revenues and investments

in privately financed companies

Swiss Biotech Report 2026

– Revenue reached a new high of CHF 7.5 billion in 2025 (2024: CHF 7.2 billion), driven by more companies

with market-ready products and sustained growing demand for specialized CDMO services.

– Capital inflows increased by 2.1% to CHF 2.6 billion. At the same time, the focus shifted significantly towards

investments in privately financed companies, which reached a record CHF 1.15 billion

– an increase of 38% compared to 2024. Their share of the total financing volume rose to 45% – also a record high.

– Windward Bio (CHF 186 million) and GlycoEra (CHF 104 million) led private funding rounds.

– The Swiss biotech company BioVersys completed Europe‘s largest IPO; an increasing

number of companies used collaborations for financing.

– Despite a slight decline in product approvals in the USA, Europe, and Switzerland,

the number of approvals increased in other key markets, including China and Canada.

– Investments in research and development slightly decreased to CHF 2.5 billion,

while employment reached a new high.

– Following Swiss Biotech Day, the EUREKA Global Innovation Summit 2026 will take place.


Seite 6/67

In 2025, the Swiss biotech industry developed very successfully. The

Swiss Biotech Report 2026, jointly published by the Swiss Biotech

Association, EY, and six partner organizations at Swiss Biotech Day

in Basel, analyzes the financing and key figures of 2025. Under the

theme ‘Talent and Tenacity,’ it explores how Swiss biotech attracts

and develops talent, thereby strengthening its attractiveness as a

collaboration partner and fostering international alliances.

With CHF 7.5 billion, total revenue in 2025 reached a new record,

driven by more companies with market-ready products and a persistently

strong growing demand for specialized CDMO services.

53% of all Swiss exports were attributable to the chemical-pharmaceutical

and life sciences industries, with immunologics – including

therapeutic proteins, cell therapies, and vaccines – reaching a record

share of 20% (2024: 18%).

Investments in Swiss biotech companies amounted to CHF 2.6 billion.

Private company financing increased by 38% to a record CHF 1.15

billion; their share of total financing volume was 45% in 2025. Switzerland’s

globally oriented cooperation model contributed significantly

to this growth: international investors remained important capital

providers for Swiss biotech, and Swiss biotech companies also

used international licensing and cooperation agreements to achieve

additional product approvals and open new revenue streams. The

number of employees in Swiss R&D biotech companies – both publicly

listed and privately held – reached a new high of over 21,000.

Michael Altorfer, CEO of the Swiss Biotech Association, comments:

“Last year‘s strong industry development underscores our commitment

to fostering and developing talent as well as strengthening

innovation and international collaboration. The majority of investments

still come from abroad and grew by 20 percent in USD terms

compared to the previous year – a remarkable achievement in the

current economic and political environment.”

Frederik Schmachtenberg, Partner at EY and Global Life Sciences

Lead for Financial Accounting Advisory Services, adds: “Despite a

challenging capital market environment, Swiss biotech companies

achieved record revenues of CHF 7.5 billion in 2025 and maintained

high levels of R&D investments. The total financing volume reached

CHF 2.6 billion, with a shift from publicly listed to privately financed

companies. With CHF 1.15 billion, they raised more capital than

ever before, 38 percent above the previous year. Their share of total

financing volume increased to 45 percent – evidence of the strong

investor base of privately financed companies.”

The key insights from the Swiss Biotech Report 2026

In 2025, the Swiss biotech industry achieved a new revenue record

of CHF 7.5 billion (2024: CHF 7.2 billion), while R&D investments

slightly declined to CHF 2.5 billion (2024: CHF 2.6 billion). Employment

in Swiss R&D biotech companies reached a peak of over 21,000

full-time equivalents – driven by more companies with market-ready

products and the increasing importance of Swiss CDMO.

In terms of financing, privately financed companies raised CHF 1.15

billion, a new high, representing a 38% increase over the previous

year. In 2025, 45% of the total financing volume was attributable to

private financings, compared to around 30% in previous years. Major

funding rounds included Windward Bio (CHF 186 million), GlycoEra

(CHF 104 million), Orbis Medicine (CHF 84 million), Nucidium (CHF

79 million), and Rhygaze (CHF 78 million).

For publicly listed companies, the market environment remained

challenging. Nevertheless, BioVersys completed Europe‘s largest

IPO at the beginning of 2025, raising USD 88 million (2024: USD 106

million through four European IPOs). Other publicly listed companies

with significant follow-on financings included Moonlake (CHF

490 million), Oculis (CHF 274 million), Idorsia (CHF 216 million), and

ADC Therapeutics (CHF 129 million).

Mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations increased. Notable transactions

included the global licensing agreement between CDR-Life

and Boehringer Ingelheim (up to USD 456 million), the global

research and licensing option agreement between BioVersys and

Shionogi (up to CHF 479 million plus license fees), and Windward

Bio’s licensing agreement with Qyuns Therapeutics (up to USD 700

million).

The Swiss Biotech Report 2026 also analyzes the factors contributing

to Switzerland’s broad and diverse talent pool and their influence

on innovation and global competitiveness.

Global Village and Swiss Biotech Success Stories Awards

for outstanding achievements

The Swiss Biotech Report 2026 was presented to over 3,500 guests

at Swiss Biotech Day on May 4 and 5, 2026, in Basel. The conference

for biotech executives is becoming increasingly international,

supported by the Global Village, which expanded from 10 to

over 30 international delegations from all continents over three

years.

For its outstanding achievements, the Swiss Biotech Association

awarded Patrick Aebischer the Swiss Biotech Success Stories Award

2026. As a leading neuroscientist and influential figure in Swiss biotech,

his career spans research, institutional leadership, and entrepreneurship.

During his presidency from 2000 to 2016, he transformed

EPFL into a leading global research institution. He founded

four biotech companies: CytoTherapeutics, Modex, Amazentis (Timeline),

and Vandria. Currently, he serves on the boards of Nestlé

and PolyPeptide and was previously a board member of Lonza and

Logitech. He is also Managing Partner at Limani Partners and was

a senior partner at ND Capital, as well as Chairman of the Novartis

Venture Fund.

Swiss Biotech Association

CH 8004 Zürich


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Responsibility for the next development phase

The handover is the result of a process prepared over many years.

Since 2016, Ina Henze-Ludwig has been part of the management

and has shaped the development of COLANDIS in key areas. Initially,

she took on essential personnel issues and created structural

and procedural prerequisites for more predictability, efficiency, and

further growth within the company.

With the expansion at the Kahla site, COLANDIS continues this

path consistently. As a result, COLANDIS nearly doubles the available

space for production and services, from around 2,000 to approximately

3,300 square meters. „Our goal is to significantly expand the

service component in the coming years and increase it from today‘s

around 20% to a prospective 50%, while simultaneously stabilizing

and further developing the other business areas. It is important to

me that COLANDIS continues to grow healthily and that we also

specifically strengthen the personnel prerequisites for the company‘s

future,“ explains Ina Henze-Ludwig.

30 years of COLANDIS: Growth from vision and experience

On May 1, 2026, Ina Henze-Ludwig took over the sole

management of COLANDIS GmbH. With the end of the

founder Joachim Ludwig‘s activity, the next generation now fully

assumes the leadership of the family business. © COLANDIS GmbH

COLANDIS:

Ina Henze-Ludwig

assumes sole

management

On May 1, 2026, Ina Henze-Ludwig took over the sole management

of COLANDIS GmbH. With the end of the activity

as managing director of the founder, Joachim Ludwig,

the next generation now fully assumes the leadership of the

family business. For customers and partners, COLANDIS

remains a reliable contact person even with the leadership

transition.

The management transition falls in a special year: 2026 marks 30 years

of successful company history for COLANDIS. Joachim Ludwig

founded COLANDIS in 1996 as a civil partnership, which started in

a garage. Since then, the company has steadily developed and currently

employs about 35 staff members.

Today, COLANDIS operates in a market where purity technology

is gaining importance across more and more industries. At the

same time, the demand for customized solutions is increasing where

standard offerings reach their limits. This is precisely where CO-

LANDIS‘s strength lies: in precision, reliability, and a clear understanding

of customer requirements.

A clear outlook for the future

Joachim Ludwig concluded his activity for COLANDIS on April 30

and looks to the future with a clear perspective: „I am convinced that

Ina will successfully continue to lead COLANDIS GmbH. She brings

the experience, clarity, and vision for the right decisions to secure

the company‘s future,“ he says. With the knowledge that COLAN-

DIS is well-positioned, a new chapter begins for him: „I look forward

to dedicating myself to new tasks and challenges now,“ says Joachim

Ludwig. In the future, he will work as a freelancer and offer his many

years of industry experience as a consultant.

For Ina Henze-Ludwig, the handover is both a responsibility and a

perspective for the coming years. With a wink, she describes CO-

LANDIS as her father‘s „fourth child,“ which she now gets to accompany

as the „big sister.“ „I am very grateful to my father for the trust

he has placed in me with this step. Together with our team, I see us

well equipped to master the upcoming challenges and continue the

success story of COLANDIS,“ she says..

COLANDIS GmbH

Im Camisch 34

D 07768 Kahla

Telefon: +49 36424 76940

eMail: info@colandis.com

Internet: https://www.colandis.com


Seite 8/67

(Source: Ansell)

Acetone permeates nitrile gloves with no visible warning. Learn how it happens,

why labs miss it, and five steps to protect your lab team.

How Acetone impacts

glove integrity in the lab

Author: Jo Fabb

Summary:

– The three ways solvents undermine

glove performance

– Why lab environments make permeation

risk harder to control

– Reduce acetone glove risk fast

– What labs can do to protect their teams

– What to ask any glove supplier for

You wipe down a bench with acetone, rinse glassware, then move

straight into sample prep. The gloves still look fine, so the instinct is

to keep going.

That instinct is the problem.

In most labs, standard disposable nitrile and multi-polymer gloves

are the default. They are comfortable, affordable, and effective

against a wide range of chemicals. But acetone is not one of them.

Acetone affects gloves through permeation and degradation, and

the most dangerous failure mode, permeation, happens with no visible

warning. A glove can appear fully intact while chemicals are already

moving through the material at a molecular level.

For lab managers and EHS leads overseeing acetone-intensive

workflows, understanding how acetone affects glove materials is the

first step toward protocols that do not rely on visual inspection as a

safety strategy.


Seite 9/67

The three ways solvents undermine glove performance

When teams talk about glove “failure,” they often mean rips and tears.

That is only one type of failure, and it is usually the last stage.

Acetone is a powerful solvent, which means it can compromise

glove materials rapidly, often much faster than expected.

Permeation performance is commonly assessed using test methods

such as EN 16523 and ASTM F739, which generate data including

breakthrough time and permeation rate. For acetone, permeation

and degradation are the two issues that catch labs out most often

because they can occur before obvious damage appears.

1. Permeation: the invisible failure

Permeation is the movement of chemicals through a material at a

molecular level. The glove can look and feel normal, but exposure

may already be occurring. With many standard disposable nitrile and

multi-polymer gloves, manufacturer permeation data for acetone

shows short breakthrough times, particularly under repeated contact

scenarios such as wipe-downs and frequent handling. Warmer

conditions can also reduce effective protection, so results generated

at standard lab test temperatures may not reflect in-use conditions.

The consequences are real. Acetone can strip natural oils from

skin, contributing to irritation, redness, peeling, and cracking with

repeated contact. Acetone can also be absorbed through the skin,

which is why dermal exposure should not be treated as a secondary

route.

A dermal exposure study (Fukabori et al., 1990) found acetone

applied to skin was later detected in blood, alveolar air, and urine,

and longer exposure time increased acetone levels in the body.1

Why it gets missed: permeation has no obvious visual cue. People

feel safe because the glove looks fine.

Get a quick summary of acetone’s skin risks and what short,

repeated contact can lead to.

2. Breakthrough time: how permeation is measured

Breakthrough time (BT) is associated to the permeation, BT tells us

how long it takes for permeation to reach a certain rate in accordance

with different standards (1 µg/min/cm2). It helps compare materials,

but it is not the same as safe wearing time.

With standard disposable nitrile gloves, breakthrough can occur

in under a minute, depending on the glove formulation, thickness,

temperature, and contact pattern. One critical point: even before

the permeation rate reaches a breakthrough threshold, chemicals

can still pass through and accumulate on the skin. That cumulative

dose over time is what ultimately matters when estimating practical

change rules for real lab tasks.

Why it gets missed: lab behaviour is not based on time rules. It is

based on “does it feel okay?” and “I’m nearly done.”

3. Degradation: the visible warning that comes too late

Degradation is the physical change in one or more properties of a

glove material due to contact with chemicals. You may notice swelling,

softening, tackiness, discoloration, hardening, cracking, reduced

grip, or thinning. By the time degradation is noticeable, permeation

may already have been occurring.

Why it gets missed: some degradation looks like normal wear,

especially when teams are rushing.

Why lab environments make permeation risk harder to control

Permeation risk is shaped as much by workflow as by the chemical.

In labs, exposure often comes from short, repeated tasks like

wipe-downs, quick transfers, and back-to-back solvent handling.

Add extended glove wear time, multiple chemicals in a shift, and inconsistent

change habits across technicians, and a glove that looks

fine can still create avoidable exposure.

The aim is to remove judgement calls from routine solvent tasks

so protection is consistent across technicians and shifts.

Reduce acetone glove risk fast

Do:

– Set task-based glove change rules for wipe-down

and open handling

– Standardize glove selection using verified permeation data

Don’t:

– Rely on “change when damaged” for solvent work

– Let glove choice default to “whatever is in the dispenser”

What labs can do to protect their teams

As laboratory safety standards evolve, safe acetone handling depends

on two things: using appropriate protection and making behavior

consistent. These five practical principles help reduce exposure

without slowing the lab down.

1) Select gloves based on verified permeation

and breakthrough data

Do not rely on assumptions or generic compatibility charts. Look for

manufacturer data generated using EN 16523 or ASTM F739, and

make sure the test conditions are relevant to your tasks.

Focus on what matters in practice:

– what chemicals are involved

– the type of contact (splash, wipe, open handling, immersion)

– expected duration and frequency

– whether dexterity is critical for the task

If you want to go a step further and map this to what glove to use for

common acetone tasks, read our guide: Acetone-Resistant Gloves

for Labs: Why Standard Gloves Fail.

2) Document PPE selection in risk assessments and SOPs

If acetone use is routine, glove selection should not live in tribal

knowledge. Document the acetone-handling tasks that occur in your


Seite 10/67

(Source: Ansell)

lab, the glove selection rationale based on verified data, the changeout

rule for each task type, and the training approach for technicians.

This moves glove use from personal preference to a repeatable

control, and gives you a defensible position if protocols are audited.

3) Train staff on what failure looks like, and what it does not

One clear message: glove appearance does not reliably indicate

protection. Cover how permeation occurs with no visible signs, the

degradation indicators that should trigger an immediate change (tackiness,

swelling, softening, reduced grip), and why repeated brief

contact can still create meaningful exposure.

Use real scenarios from your lab, not abstract theory.

4) Avoid over-reliance on standard disposable nitrile

for aggressive solvents

General-purpose disposable gloves are comfortable and affordable,

but the risk is when they become the automatic choice simply because

they are convenient.

A practical approach is to separate tasks by contact type and

align glove guidance accordingly: incidental contact, repetitive brief

contact, open handling, and immersion. This helps teams understand

when a general lab glove is appropriate and when it is not.

5) Implement a glove-selection framework

to reduce variability

Without clear rules, one technician changes gloves after every acetone

task while another wears the same pair for an entire shift. That

variability is the real risk. For repetitive contact, change gloves at task

completion regardless of appearance. For open handling, define intervals

and require immediate changes after spills. Embed guidance

where decisions happen: dispenser labels, bench-side reference

cards, SOP callouts.

What to ask any glove supplier for

Request acetone permeation and breakthrough data tested to EN

16523 or ASTM F739. Confirm the test conditions reflect your real

contact types (wipe-down, splash, open handling) and ask whether

cumulative permeation information is available, so you can set practical

change rules for day-to-day use.

Standardize glove selection with confidence

AnsellGUARDIAN Chemical helps you match glove recommendations

to acetone tasks and exposure scenarios, so your team can

make consistent decisions without interpreting raw permeation data

every time.

Reference:

1. https://iris.epa.gov/static/pdfs/0128tr.pdf

ANSELL LTD.

BL 1070 Brüssel


Seite 11/67

ASYS PundR Reinraum Implantcast


ASYS Group implements scalable GMP cleanroom

concept for implantcast

The ASYS Group has developed and implemented a future-proof,

GMP-compliant cleanroom concept for implantcast GmbH. With

the new cleanroom area of a total of 240 m², ASYS specifically supports

one of the world‘s leading manufacturers of orthopedic implants

in expanding its production capacities and meeting increasing

regulatory requirements in medical technology.

implantcast develops and manufactures a continuously growing

portfolio – from modular standard implants to highly complex, patient-specific

custom-made solutions for tumor treatments. To consistently

continue this growth path, the company commissioned

ASYS Process and Cleanroom Technology GmbH, a company of the

ASYS Group, with planning and implementing a scalable cleanroom

that intelligently combines automation, energy efficiency, and GMP

compliance.

Initial Situation: Capacity Limits in Production

and Cleanroom Technology

The rapid growth of implantcast was reflected both in personnel expansion

and in production volume. In addition to significant increases

in quality and approval management, research & development,

and validation, the existing cleanroom was already reaching its technical

and spatial limits:

– Approximately 15 years old cleanroom operating in three shifts

– Maximum production capacity: around 14,000 parts per week

– No further expansion possibilities within the existing

infrastructure

To meet future market demands and sustainably secure international

approvals, an additional cleanroom with significantly higher performance

capacity was required.

Technical Solution: GMP C Cleanroom

as a Scalable Intermediate Step

With the new Plant 3, a production hall, implantcast realized a strategic

interim solution: enough buffer to continue growing, and at the

same time, the foundation for future construction projects.

ASYS Process and Cleanroom Technology took over the complete

planning and realization of the cleanroom project:

– A free-standing structure with integrated technical level

on the cleanroom

– Total area: 240 m²

– Of which 200 m² ISO 7 cleanroom area

– About 40 m² airlock areas

– Wall and ceiling systems in GMP design

– GMP-compliant monitoring system

– Designed for continuous validation and

reproducible process conditions

The new cleanroom facility is designed for a production capacity of

up to 30,000 parts per week in single-shift operation – more than

double the previous maximum capacity in three-shift mode. It also

enables continuous validation, a phased production relocation, and

compliance with international approval requirements, such as for

the USA.


Seite 12/67

– High execution quality and professionalism

on the construction site

“From the first acquaintance to today: an open

and honest collaboration.”

Frank Ansorge, Chief Quality Officer, implantcast GmbH

Strategic Milestone for Medical Technology Production


The new GMP C cleanroom represents much more than just an expansion

of capacity for implantcast. It forms the technological basis

for future growth, international market presence, and the highest

quality standards in implant manufacturing.

implantcast would again choose an ASYS Process and Cleanroom

Technology cleanroom – a strong signal of trust, quality, and

partnership-oriented project work for process-safe production environments

in medical technology.

Collaboration at Eye Level with High Technical Competence

For Frank Ansorge, Chief Quality Officer at implantcast, besides

technical expertise, the way of collaboration was particularly

decisive:

– Open communication and transparent coordination

– Solution-oriented planning even for project-specific adjustments

ASYS Prozess- und Reinraumtechnik GmbH

Lerchenbergstraße 31

D 89160 Dornstadt

Telefon: +49 7348 98560

eMail: cleanroom@asys-group.com

Internet: http://www.asys-group.com

www.reinraum.de | www.cleanroom-online.com NEWSLETTER | Ausgabe DE 05-2023 Seite 13/103

Fast-acting doors for

inerting – reliable airtightness

for oxygen-reduced areas

Fast-acting doors for inertization, also known as doors for oxygen

reduction systems (ORS), are increasingly important in buildings

where high-value or sensitive goods need protection from fire risks,

dust contamination, and temperature fluctuations.

As an internationally leading manufacturer of fast-acting doors,

EFAFLEX develops and implements customized door solutions for

inertization with the highest quality. These doors are characterized

by excellent airtightness as well as quick, safe, and durable operation.

The following overview explains the construction, advantages,

and typical application areas of these specialized doors.

Functionality and Advantages of EFAFLEX Doors

An inertization door is an industrial rapid-acting door specifically

designed for use in oxygen-reduced environments. While conventional

fire protection concepts often rely on sprinkler systems, which

can cause significant damage to stored products, oxygen reduction

systems take a different approach: by lowering the oxygen content,

the formation of a fire is prevented in advance.

To ensure that this controlled atmosphere remains permanently

stable, highly airtight rapid-acting doors with minimal leakage are

required. EFAFLEX relies on proven technologies from cleanroom

and cryogenic sectors for this purpose. Custom versions of the EFA-

SRT® CR Efficient and EFA-SST® TK-100 series reliably meet the

high demands of ORS applications.

Key Advantages at a Glance:

– Air permeability class 5 according to DIN EN 12426

– nearly hermetic seal

– Complete integration into oxygen reduction systems

– Preventive fire protection by avoiding fire initiation

– Up to 200,000 cycles per year

– Suitable for continuous operation in

automated 24/7 logistics facilities

– Very low leakage in cooling and cryogenic areas

– Ensuring stable temperature and humidity conditions

– Seamless integration into conveyor and transport systems

– Airlock function through coupled doors for pressure

and atmosphere regulation

Typical Industries and Application Areas

ORS rapid-acting doors are used wherever particularly sensitive, valuable,

or irreplaceable goods are stored or processed, and where fire

and moisture damage pose a high risk. These include, among others:

– Archives and libraries for the protection of historical

documents and collections

– Museums and galleries for the secure storage of artworks,

films, and media

– Pharmaceutical and chemical storage areas

– Storage for temperature-sensitive or hazardous products

– Cryogenic storage with requirements for airtight, frost-free zones

– Production areas in electronics, aerospace, automotive,

and precision engineering

Since oxygen-reduced areas are often not accessible to personnel

on a permanent basis, material flow is typically managed via automated

conveyor systems. The nearly airtight rapid-acting doors ensure

an uninterrupted preservation of the atmosphere.

High Airtightness at Optimized Costs

Not every oxygen-reduction application requires the complete

equipment of a cleanroom door. For areas where fire protection and


Seite 14/67

EFAFLEX – Your Partner for Oxygen Reduction Door Solutions

With decades of experience in developing airtight rapid-acting

doors and special solutions, EFAFLEX offers expert know-how for

demanding oxygen reduction concepts. Reference projects such as

the collaboration with the British Library demonstrate how effectively

EFAFLEX doors can permanently protect valuable collections

from fire hazards.

EFAFLEX supports projects comprehensively – from planning

through manufacturing and installation to maintenance – and stands

for the highest reliability, durability, and compliance with standards.

If you are looking for a forward-looking fire protection solution

that also secures logistics processes, EFAFLEX’s inertization rapidacting

doors provide the right answer.

airtightness are the primary concerns, EFAFLEX has developed

economical door solutions with low leakage.

For example, EFA-SRT® CR Efficient doors can be supplied

in galvanized versions with technically adapted modifications.

This version allows for significant cost reduction while maintaining

high airtightness. These reliable ORS doors are especially

successful in European logistics and conveyor systems with very

high daily cycle counts.

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Internet: http://www.efaflex.com


New controlled cleaning and sterilization service supports biopharma customers

with ready-to-use single-use assemblies

Freudenberg Medical Launches

CleanAssure, an ISO Class 5 Controlled

Cleanroom for Sterile Single-use Assemblies

Freudenberg Medical, a global contract

design and manufacturing partner to the

medical device and biopharma industry,

announced the launch of CleanAssure, a

new ISO Class 5 controlled cleanroom designed

to deliver clean and sterile single-use

assemblies for biopharmaceutical customers.

Freudenberg Medical manufactures silicone

and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE)

tubing for bioprocessing and critical fluid

transfer. The company specializes in seamless,

overmolded single-use assemblies

used in vaccine production, cell cultivation,

fluid transfer, and fill-finish operations. The

controlled cleanroom enables customers

to receive ready-to-use washed, dried, and

gamma sterilized single-use assemblies

with the highest product quality, sterility,

and process consistency.

Freudenberg‘s cleaning process uses ultrapure

water and air, operating within tightly

controlled ISO 5 conditions. The water

is produced using a multi-stage filtration

process resulting in high-purity water specifically

suitable for pharmaceutical applications.

“CleanAssure allows us to support our

customers beyond component manufacturing.

By integrating controlled cleaning and

sterilization into our single-use assembly

services, we help reduce contamination risk,

streamline validation activities, and support

a reliable supply for our customers. We can

now support customers with their entire

component value chain and allow them to

focus on their core manufacturing capability.”

(Rudi Gall: Vice President, Global Pharma)

Addressing Key Biopharma Industry

Challenges

Biopharmaceutical manufacturers increasingly

rely on single-use systems but face

ongoing challenges related to cleaning validation,

contamination risk, and production

downtime. Customer-managed cleaning

processes are often time intensive, costly,

and require additional resources while directly

impacting supply reliability.

Freudenberg Medical’s controlled cleaning

environment addresses these challenges by:

– Reducing cross-contamination risk

through tightly controlled ISO Class 5

processing.

– Alleviating customer cleaning validation

burden by delivering assemblies washed

and sterilized under cGMP, validated


Seite 16/67

conditions.

– Minimizing production downtime by

removing cleaning as a process step.

– Supporting a consistent, reliable supply of

high-quality single-use assemblies.

CleanAssure is suited for high purity, contamination-sensitive

applications where

control, traceability, and assured cleanliness

are critical.

Freudenberg’s ISO Class 5 cleaning service

is fully integrated with the company’s

existing expertise in the design and manufacture

of high purity tubing, connectors,

overmolded sanitary ends, manifolds, T- and

Y-molds, complex assemblies, and other

ancillary products. Freudenberg also offers

customers outsourced sterilization services.

Freudenberg Medical, LLC

01915 Massachusetts

Vereinigte Staaten


High-tech company invests in new equipment and automation for mass production

3D Printing Investment: 1:1 Scale Increases

Production Capacity by 25 Percent

Series-Ready 3D Printing: 1zu1scale remains true to its pioneering

role and introduces new technologies and materials

in the DACH region. The high-tech company invests around

2 million euros in two state-of-the-art systems and automation.

This expands 1zu1scale‘s manufacturing capabilities

to include directly black-printed components without

post-processing steps and increases production capacity in

3D printing by a quarter. The specialist for small and precise

plastic components also enables higher batch sizes in injection

molding through the production of steel tools with a

modern sinker EDM machine.

3D printing in new dimensions: 1zu1scale increases production capacity

by 25 percent. As the first provider in the DACH region, the

company introduces the innovative technology and high-performance

materials from Farsoon to the market. Additionally, 1zu1scale

expands its machine park with a large system of the latest EOS

generation featuring an automated job changer – also unique in the

DACH region. This nearly doubles the machine’s manufacturing

output. Overall, the Dornbirn-based high-tech company increases

its 3D printing production capacity by 25 percent and invests around

2 million euros.

“How the final component is manufactured depends on the application

and requirements. We offer the most economically sensible

solution and the right setup for scaling,” says Sales Director

Sebastian Fink. The system from technology partner Farsoon now

prints black plastic components in series quality for the first time.

This eliminates the time-consuming and costly process of coloring.

4-fiber laser melting technology and 216 liters of build volume enable

the rapid production of larger batch sizes. The cost-efficient solution

creates additional opportunities for industries such as electronics,

mechanical engineering, automation, and robotics.

New Brand, Clear Strategy

The specialist for small and precise plastic components accompanies

its clients from idea to series production. Since April, the brand

has also been reflected in the company name: 1zu1scale GmbH follows

1zu1 Prototypen GmbH & Co KG. “The change finalizes our

strategic orientation. Everything remains the same for our customers,”

assures CEO Thomas Kohler.

The investment in 3D printing is accompanied by expansion in

toolmaking and injection molding. With a sinker EDM machine, 1zu-

1scale now produces, in addition to aluminum, durable and highly

detailed steel tools for the first time. “This gives us greater depth in

production, creates synergies, and expands our reach. We supply

high-quality injection molding tools to the entire Prototal Group

in Europe,” says Kohler. Cleanroom production and certification

according to EN ISO 13485 complete the offering for customers in

medical technology.

Pioneer for Scaling

With this market innovation, 1zu1scale consolidates its role as an

industry pioneer in the DACH region and strengthens the position

of the Europe-wide operating Prototal Group. “The time is ripe for

rapid scaling of plastic components. 1zu1scale once again pushes the

boundaries of what is possible and paves the way for the industry. All

customers benefit from this – and our group,” emphasizes Jan Löfving,

CEO of Prototal.

1zu1scale

AT 6850 Dornbirn

1:1 scale increases production capacity in 3D printing by 25 percent

through investments in new machines. (Photo: Darko Todorovic)

1zu1scale, as the first provider in the DACH region, manufactures black

plastic components using the technology partner Farsoon‘s system.

(Photo: Darko Todorovic)


Seite 18/67

Atomic layer processing for silicon carbide-based quantum photonic circuits

Microphotonics

meets microelectronics

Silicon carbide (SiC) is a promising material platform for photonic integrated

circuits (PICs) and miniaturized solid-state quantum systems. In the ALP-4-

SiC project – Atomic Layer Processing for SiC for Applications in Photonics and

Quantum Communication – researchers from the Max Planck Institute for the

Science of Light (MPL) and the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Systems and

Device Technology IISB are jointly developing basic technologies for the production

of highly efficient photonic circuits. Using optical waveguides and ring resonators

as examples, they are demonstrating how atomic layer processing (ALP)

can be used to significantly improve the optical properties of photonic devices

made of SiC. ALP-4-SiC is 100% funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research,

Technology, and Space (BMFTR) as part of the “Scientific Preliminary

Projects” (WiVoPro) initiative.

Quantum systems are the rising stars of

future technologies. Large high-tech companies,

and institutional investors in particular,

are engaged in a global race to transfer

the phenomena of quantum mechanics

from research laboratories into broader

practical applications. Revolutions are already

taking place in information processing,

sensor technology and communication

that will permanently transform entire economic

sectors and societies.

From a technological perspective, quantemperatures

close to absolute zero.

Integrating quantum technologies into

marketable products and services therefore

requires considerable research and development

efforts to create essential basic

technologies. Similarly, the economic realisation

of practical quantum systems lacks a

uniform, future-proof material platform that

would enable significant advances in miniaturisation,

enhanced performance, and

reduced costs.

Robust, connectable, quantumcompatible:

silicon carbide

as a key quantum material

Researcher at Fraunhofer THM inserting a wafer into the transfer chamber of a deposition/etching

cluster for structuring using atomic layer etching. © Daniel Karmann / Fraunhofer IISB

tum systems are best described as a combination

of quantum physics, photonics and

electronics. The quantum computer is undoubtedly

the most popular example of this.

Current quantum systems still resemble

complicated optoelectronic laboratory setups

to a large extent, and immense technical

effort is required to generate, manipulate

and process quantum states. Complexity

and sheer size are limiting factors, and the

cooling required is an issue, as many of the

currently available solutions only work at

Due to its unique physical properties, the

semiconductor material silicon carbide

(SiC) is a promising technology platform for

solid-state quantum systems. SiC is a wide

bandgap (WBG) semiconductor and has

become established in recent years, particularly

in the field of power electronics. It is

also highly attractive for developing photonic

microsystems and photonic integrated

circuits (PICs) because it can be used to manufacture

optical devices, light sources, and

sensors. Furthermore, SiC is of interest due

to nonlinear optical effects that can be exploited

to modify the colour of laser light. For

instance, it can be used to convert infrared

light into visible light very efficiently. The

possibility of integrating point defects in the

form of color centers that function at room

temperature means SiC may even allow the

direct integration of quantum functionality

in the future. “This makes silicon carbide

an ideal platform for photonics, electronics,

and quantum applications,” explains

Dr. Pascal Del‘Haye, who heads the project

at the Max Planck Institute for the Science

of Light.

SiC could therefore be used to produce

all the elements required for the construction

of powerful, miniaturised quantum systems.

It is compatible with microelectronics

and microphotonics, and offers new quantum

electronic functions. Since it is compatible

with the easily controllable CMOS

processes of classic silicon technology, SiC

would be ideal for the industrial mass production

of quantum PICs.


Seite 19/67

Optical ring resonator with a diameter of 200 μm on a SiC substrate.

© Pascal Del’Haye / MPL

Optimization of the first microphotonic

devices paves the way for SiC

quantum chips

There is still a long way to go before optoelectronic

quantum chips become a reality,

and research in this area is still more or less

in its infancy. To build PICs, standardized

microphotonics devices with minimal optical

losses are needed. Optical waveguides

and ring resonators that can efficiently

guide or store light in tiny structures are

essential for this. While waveguides perform

the function of loss-free optical lines,

resonators consist of tiny rings in which the

input light completes up to a million cycles.

The photon storage times achieved in

this way allow these devices to be charged

with high circulating optical power, enabling

a variety of nonlinear optical effects.

For example, micro-resonators can convert

laser light of a specific wavelength into an

optical frequency comb, i.e., a light source

consisting of several discrete frequencies,

which can be used, for example, for very fast

parallel data transmission in telecommunications

networks.

Another useful effect is the interaction

of counter-propagating light. The nonlinear

optical coupling of counter-propagating

light in ring resonators leads to spontaneous

symmetry breaking that allows light to circulate

in only one direction, i.e., clockwise

or counterclockwise. This can be used, for

example, to implement chip-integrated optical

diodes, photonic switches, or optical

sensors, which enable the construction of

more complex photonic systems.

However, the quality of the photonic devices

manufactured on SiC substrates is not

yet optimal, and the relatively high surface

roughness causes optical losses in the waveguides

and resonators. Flawless surfaces are

essential to ensure that photons can move

quickly and do not tunnel outwards. A promising

solution is to smooth the component

surfaces using atomic layer etching (ALE) to

create well-defined interfaces and minimize

loss and scattering centers.

Bridging the gap between basic

research and process development

in the ALP-4-SiC project

In order to develop a novel manufacturing

process for complex photonic devices based

on silicon carbide, basic and applicationoriented

research must collaborate intensively.

In the ALP-4-SiC project – atomic layer

processing for SiC for applications in photonics

and quantum communication – MPL

in Erlangen and the Fraunhofer IISB with

its Fraunhofer Technology Center for High-

Performance Materials THM in Freiberg are

pooling their expertise. MPL has extensive

experience in the design and characterization

of photonic components, while the IISB

contributes its expertise in the field of SiC

semiconductor technology and atomic layer

processing.

The new approach of integrating atom

layer-based processes for photonic devices

with significantly improved optical properties

has great potential for the future commercialization

of integrated photonic devices.

In the medium term, manufacturers of

ALE process equipment in particular could

tap into new customer groups and, in return,

position photonics suppliers with innovative

products in a rapidly growing market.

However, the long-term effects of the

availability of a universal, practical, scalable

technology platform for integrated quantum

optoelectronic circuits based on SiC cannot

be predicted at this stage.

Max Planck Institute

for the Science of Light (MPL)

The Max Planck Institute for the Science of

Light (MPL) covers a broad spectrum of research,

including non-linear optics, quantum

optics, nanophotonics, photonic crystal fibers,

optomechanics, quantum technologies,

biophysics, and—in collaboration with the

Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin—links

between physics and medicine.

MPL was founded in January 2009 and is one

of more than 80 institutes of the Max Planck

Society that conduct basic research in the

natural sciences, life sciences, humanities,

and social sciences for the benefit of society.


Seite 20/67

cular emphasis on material recycling. The

activities at Fraunhofer THM are focused on

the analysis and development of sustainable

battery systems with improved life cycle

assessment and raw material availability as

well as the research and evaluation of innovative

semiconductor components and the

associated process steps.

Funding information

Fraunhofer Technology Center for

High Performance Materials THM

Cross-section of a photonic structure in silicon carbide (SiC on Insulator, SiCOI).

© Pascal Del’Haye / MPL

The Fraunhofer Technology Center for High

Performance Materials THM in Freiberg,

Saxony, is a research and transfer platform

of the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated

Systems and Device Technology IISB and

the Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies

and Systems IKTS. Together, semiconductor

and energy materials are being

transferred to new applications, with parti-

The ALP-4-SiC project – atomic layer processing

for SiC for applications in photonics

and quantum communication – is funded

as part of the “Scientific Preliminary Projects

(WiVoPro, Quantum Technologies in

Germany)” program of the German Federal

Ministry of Research, Technology and

Space (BMFTR). The projects funded by

the BMFTR with this measure investigate

scientific issues with a view to future industrial

applications. They can be carried out by

up to two research institutions and are intended

to bridge the gap between basic research

and industry-led joint funding.

Fraunhofer IISB

D 91058 Erlangen

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www.mt-messtechnik.com

The Bavarian State Minister for Science and Art, Markus Blume, officially

opens the renovated cleanroom at the Technical University of

Nuremberg together with Ohm President Prof. Dr. Niels Oberbeck and

Dr. Andrea Heilmaier, the City of Nuremberg‘s Commissioner for

Economics and Science. (Photo: Axel König / StMWK)

The Bavarian Ministerial Director Dr. Tobias Haaf, Prof. Dr. Marcus

Reichenberger, Ohm President Prof. Dr. Niels Oberbeck, the Economic

and Science Officer of the City of Nuremberg, Dr. Andrea Heilmaier,

Bavarian Minister of Science Markus Blume, Prof. Dr. Rainer Engelbrecht,

Prof. Dr. Bernd Braun, Prof. Dr. Andreas Stute (from left) in front of the

modernized cleanroom at the Technical University of Nuremberg.

(Photo: Axel König / StMWK)

Ohm opens modernized

cleanroom for quantum

research and additively

manufactured electronics

The Nuremberg University of Applied Sciences Georg Simon

Ohm (Ohm) has jointly opened its extensively modernized

cleanroom with Science Minister Markus Blume.

Equipped with state-of-the-art large-scale equipment, the

university thus enhances its research activities in the forward-looking

fields of optical quantum technologies and

additive electronics manufacturing.

The Free State of Bavaria, the EU, and the German Research

Foundation are funding the expansion of the infrastructure

and related research work with several million euros, thereby

creating the prerequisites to translate quantum research

results into industrial applications.

Markus Blume, Bavarian State Minister for Science and Art, emphasized:

“Here, a cleanroom becomes a space of possibilities for the

technologies of tomorrow. At Ohm, the conditions are being created

to bring quantum research directly from the laboratory into application

– and to turn scientific excellence into tangible value creation.

Where research is conducted today with the highest precision, the

foundations are being laid for applications of the future. The fact is:

the transfer from research to practice determines our technological

competitiveness. Bavaria is deliberately investing in such key infrastructures

and consistently expanding its quantum ecosystem – from

research to industry. This strengthens our technological sovereignty

and brings innovation into practice more quickly.”

Quantum technologies are considered key technologies for

high-performance computers, eavesdrop-proof communication in

critical infrastructures, and highly sensitive sensors, for example

in medical technology or semiconductor production. They require

highly precise optical components such as lasers, fiber optic systems,

special filters, and micro-optics to generate, manipulate, and

detect quantum states intentionally.

Professor Dr. Niels Oberbeck, President of Ohm, said: “Through

the modernization of our cleanroom, we are creating a central infrastructure

at Ohm to further develop quantum technologies from

scientific ideas to industrial applications. The targeted investments

by the Free State of Bavaria, the EU, and the German Research Foun-


Seite 22/67

dation enable us, together with partners from science and industry,

to make a sustainable contribution to the technological sovereignty

and innovation capacity of Bavaria.”

In the modernized cleanroom at Ohm, micro-optical systems,

fiber optic components, and color centers in diamonds are being

researched with the latest large-scale equipment. Additionally, additive

electronics manufacturing forms another research focus: here,

innovative digital printing processes are used to produce electronic

components and functional structures directly and efficiently. These

so-called enabling technologies are a central prerequisite for translating

basic research results into industrially usable applications – for

example, for future quantum computers. The cleanroom thus provides

the infrastructural prerequisites to systematically advance the

transfer of research results in cooperation with science and industry

partners.

The research work is funded with two million euros as part of the

“Program to Strengthen Interdisciplinary Teaching and Research

Capacities in the Field of Quantum Sciences and Technologies” by

the Bavarian State Ministry for Science and Art. The fundamental

renovation of the over 30-year-old cleanroom was carried out with

an additional 500,000 euros from the Free State of Bavaria and with

the university’s own funds.

In addition, researchers successfully secured third-party funding

for key large-scale equipment: a two-photon nanolithography system

and a femtosecond laser workstation, each costing a total of 1.3

million euros, funded equally by the Free State of Bavaria and the

German Research Foundation (DFG), and put into operation last

month. Also included is an existing multimaterial 3D printer worth

410,000 euros, which is also integrated into the modernized cleanroom.

A further 750,000 euros come from EU funds via the European

Regional Development Fund (ERDF), supporting knowledge

transfer especially to small and medium-sized enterprises. With this

equipment, Ohm is establishing a technology platform of high strategic

importance for future research and transfer projects.

The cleanroom is used by the faculties of Electrical Engineering,

Mechatronics, Information Technology (efi), Applied Mathematics,

Physics, and General Sciences (AMP), as well as at the Polymer

Optical Fiber Application Center (POF-AC) and the Institute

for Chemistry, Material, and Product Development (OHM CMP) for

research projects, ongoing doctoral programs, and teaching in bachelor’s

and master’s degree programs.

As an associated member of the Munich Quantum Valley, the

university makes a substantial contribution to the further development

and application of quantum technologies in Bavaria and beyond.

At the same time, the existing research focus “Materials and

Production Technology” is being strengthened and expanded to include

a highly topical, internationally rapidly growing scientific field.

Technische Hochschule Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm

D 90489 Nürnberg


Various disciplines work hand in hand in the laboratories to develop and analyze intelligent micro-integrated sensors and innovative materials

for a wide range of applications. (Source: Sascha Hüttenhain / Copyright: University of Siegen / Sascha Hüttenhain)

Starting signal for a new era

of excellent research

In the presence of Ina Brandes, Minister for Culture and Science of the State

of North Rhine-Westphalia, the Research Center INCYTE was officially opened

at the University of Siegen. The new high-tech center strengthens top-level research

in Siegen and throughout North Rhine-Westphalia.

New standards for research in the profile

area „New Materials, Sensor Technology,

and Artificial Intelligence“ at the University

of Siegen: With a ceremonial act, the INCY-

TE research center was now opened on the

Adolf Reichwein campus – an interdisciplinary

high-tech center for nanoanalytics,

nanochemistry, and cyber-physical sensor

technologies. Covering around 5,200 square

meters of usable space, INCYTE combines

state-of-the-art laboratories, cleanrooms,

and biochemical research areas. About 150

guests from science, politics, and industry

attended the opening. The keynote speech

was delivered by Prof. Dr. Patrick Scheele,

Scientific Managing Director of the Ferdinand-Braun-Institut,

Leibniz Institute for

High-Frequency Technology. The topic:

„Future of Microelectronics in Europe with

the Pilot Line for Heterogeneous Integrated

Electronic Systems APECS.“

„A Magnificent Beacon for

the University of Siegen“

Opening of the high-tech research center INCYTE (from left): Prof. Dr. Benjamin Butz,

Prof. Dr. Peter Haring Bolívar, Anke Richter, Ina Brandes, Prof. Dr. Stefanie Reese, Iris Litty

and Prof. Dr. Patrick Scheele. © University of Siegen / Sascha Hüttenhain

Ina Brandes, Minister for Culture and Science

of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia:

„Excellent science requires excellent

equipment. With INCYTE, we are creating

optimal working conditions for scientists

in a uniquely designed laboratory building

in Germany. Various disciplines will work

together here to develop intelligent microsensors

and innovative materials, addressing

key future challenges in industry, mo-


Seite 24/67

bility, and medicine. This strengthens the

science and economic location of North

Rhine-Westphalia.“ The state is funding

the construction with around 95 million

euros.

„INCYTE is a research center with immense

national and international impact, a magnificent

beacon for the University of Siegen

and for microelectronics in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Our thanks go to the state,

which enables our scientists to conduct

research at world-class levels,“ explained

University Rector Prof. Dr. Stefanie Reese

and Chancellor Iris Litty. „We also sincerely

thank all colleagues who have dedicated

themselves with great commitment to this

project over the past years.“

Shared Use by Researchers

With the new research center, the University

of Siegen has access to a uniquely comprehensive

infrastructure in Germany. Various

disciplines work hand in hand in the laboratories

to develop and analyze intelligent

micro-integrated sensors and innovative

materials for a wide range of applications –

from medicine to industrial applications to

mobility. At the same time, INCYTE exemplifies

a new generation of cooperative research

infrastructures: interdisciplinary

researchers share the laboratories and facilities

to develop solutions for central future

issues.

„The infrastructure at INCYTE is also open

to external partners to jointly implement

research and development effectively – including

other universities, research institutions,

startups, as well as small and medium-sized

enterprises from the region and

beyond,“ emphasized Prof. Dr. Peter Haring

Bolívar, who co-designed and drove the

project forward with colleagues.

Moving 35,000 Cubic Meters of Earth

The INCYTE was built on an area of nearly

11,000 square meters by the Building and

Real Estate Management (BLB NRW). The

highest construction standards were met:

the laboratories for highly sensitive electron

microscopes were built up to seven meters

deep into the rock. For vibration-free operation,

the devices rest on a concrete foundation

weighing around 100 tons. „35,000

cubic meters of earth were moved so that

the rock itself becomes a protective layer for

the sensitive measurement technology. But

INCYTE is not only a technical masterpiece:

the four-story atrium with its light-filled domes

forms a lively center that promotes exchange

and encounters – because research

does not only happen in the laboratory,“ said

Anke Richter, head of the Dortmund branch

of BLB NRW.

In addition to highly specialized laboratories,

INCYTE also houses rooms for teaching,

around 200 workstations, and areas

for visiting scientists. About 130 solar modules

were installed on the roof for sustainable

energy supply. Extensive roof greening

contributes to natural temperature

regulation and improves the microclimate

at the site.

As a symbolic act during the opening ceremony,

a time capsule was embedded into a

wall of the INCYTE building. The capsule

was created during the laying of the foundation

stone in 2022 and contains information

about the University of Siegen, the INCYTE

construction project, and current and future

research questions in the field of nano- and

sensor technologies.

INCYTE in Numbers:

INCYTE houses a total of 50 laboratories.

The particle-free cleanroom, equipped with

a special ventilation system, covers 600

square meters. 1,100 square meters are dedicated

to material analysis, and 400 square

meters are for biological safety laboratories,

enabling broad thematic research. Approximately

10,000 cubic meters of concrete

were used in INCYTE – equivalent to about

1,500 truckloads of concrete. Additionally,

120 kilometers of cables were laid and 2,000

tons of steel processed – comparable to the

weight of about 1,200 cars.

Universität Siegen

D 57076 Siegen


When cleanrooms grow with

the process: Modular expansion

for micro-injection molding

Production processes in medical technology are constantly evolving

– and with them, the requirements for cleanroom environments.

At Tegra Medical c/o Stamm AG in Hallau (Switzerland), this very

challenge was the focus. An existing cleanroom solution was to be

expanded to create space for high-precision micro-injection molding

– quickly, efficiently, and without long interruptions to ongoing

operations.

Schilling Engineering implemented a 22 m² ISO-7 cleanroom extension

for this purpose. It seamlessly connects to the existing cleanroom

and simultaneously opens up new technical possibilities.

While the existing room operates with a closed plenum, the extension

was intentionally designed as an open system. Two FFUs with

bypass grilles handle the air supply, fed by an air conditioning ceiling

unit that supplies cooled air directly. This slim, well-thought-out

solution demonstrates the adaptability of modular cleanroom concepts.

At the center of the new extension is a semi-integrated injection

molding machine for micro-injection molding, forming the heart of

an automated process. A robotic system handles the precise placement

and removal of the finest needles for eye surgery – a sensitive

process that takes place under constantly controlled cleanroom conditions.

The careful technical execution proves its value in daily operation.

For tool changes, a pneumatically operated sliding cover was integrated

into the ceiling, allowing access from above. This minimizes

interventions in the cleanroom and keeps processes stable and efficient.

Access to the cell extension is via an electrically lockable sliding

door.

The project was carried out by service technicians from the cleanroom

company during ongoing operation and was implemented efficiently.

The existing cleanroom was taken out of service for only

one week, then re-qualified and put back into operation. During this

time, an electric door was installed as an access point to the new

room in the existing wall and integrated into the existing control

system, including commissioning. Subsequently, the new extension

was also qualified. In the future, both areas are to be combined into

a single qualification document – another step toward a holistically

planned cleanroom solution.

This project demonstrates the flexibility offered by modular cleanroom

systems. With solutions from Schilling Engineering, cleanrooms

can be precisely adapted, and even demanding production

facilities can be seamlessly integrated into existing structures. For

companies in medical technology, this means future security, as production

processes can be flexibly expanded without long interruptions

to ongoing operations.

Schilling Engineering GmbH

Industriestraße 26

Telefon: +49 7746 927890

D 79793 Wutöschingen

eMail: info@schillingengineering.de

Internet: http://www.schillingengineering.de


Seite 26/67

The new standard element catalog 19.0 from Ganter.

For everyone who

prefers to browse

INGENIEURBÜRO &

REINRAUMSERVICE

EGON BUCHTA GMBH

With version 19.0 of its standard element

catalog, Ganter once again presents

a comprehensive reference work

for design and mechanical engineering.

The compendium spans a total of

2,464 pages and consolidates more than

80,000 standard elements – more than

ever before. Proven classics are complemented

by numerous product innovations

that strategically expand the

portfolio.

The catalog is aimed at designers, developers, and the manufacturing industry, and

goes far beyond a simple ordering directory. Rather, it serves as a practical reference,

source of inspiration, and reliable tool in everyday work. The clear systematics facilitate

orientation: all standard elements are organized by functions and application

areas and are presented in a proven format as detailed standard sheets – including

variants, technical specifications, and application notes.

In addition to classic operating elements, clamping and machine elements, the

new catalog also includes numerous specialized solutions. These include, among others,

standard elements in hygienic design, wheels and rollers, as well as precision

double-tube linear units. This ensures that Ganter meets the current requirements of

various industries and continues to expand its position as one of the market leaders

in the field of standard elements.

As part of the catalog revision, Ganter has also fundamentally developed and

unified its entire stainless steel portfolio. New, clearly defined stainless steel quality

classes provide even greater transparency in material selection and facilitate targeted

adjustment to different operating conditions – from standard applications to

highly corrosive or hygienically sensitive environments.

This allows Ganter to support designers even more effectively in selecting durable

and reliable solutions, especially in demanding industries such as food, pharmaceutical,

or chemical industries.

Despite the steadily growing digital possibilities, the printed catalog remains a

central working tool. Under the motto „For everyone who prefers to browse,“ Ganter

consciously emphasizes the added value of the physical reference work: independent

of devices, always at hand, and ideal for intuitive product selection. At the same

time, all content is also available digitally, including current 2D and 3D data for direct

integration into design.

If no suitable element can be found among the over 80,000 standard solutions,

Ganter also offers individual, customer-specific solutions. The standard element

catalog 19.0 is available free of charge and can be requested directly from the Ganter

website.

Otto Ganter GmbH & Co. KG

Triberger Straße 3

D 78120 Furtwangen

Telefon: +49 7723 65070

Telefax: +49 7723 4659

eMail: info@ganternorm.com

Internet: http://www.ganternorm.com

„WIR SIND

FÜR SIE DA.“

FULLSERVICE FOR

CLEANROOM SOLUTIONS

– GMP- und Nutzerberatung

– Dokumentenerstellung nach

EU-GMP-Leitfaden; Annex 15

– partikuläre und mikrobiologische

Qualifizierungen,

Wartungen und Service

inkl. Messtechnik und

Dokumentation für „as built“,

„at rest“ und „in operation“

– Qualifizierungen von

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– Hygienepläne, Schleusenordnungen,

SOP‘s

– GMP- und Hygieneschulungen

– Blower-Door-Test

www.reinraumservice.de

NEWSLETTER | Ausgabe DE 06-2026

Seite 27/67

Development of innovative medicines and groundbreaking therapies

Festive opening of the

Si-M and BeCAT research centers

The Charité – University Medicine Berlin and the Technical University of Berlin

opened the research centers „Berlin Center for Advanced Therapies“ (BeCAT)

and „The Simulated Human“ (Si-M) on April 22, 2026. The highly specialized

buildings offer scientists excellent conditions for researching and developing

effective therapies for diseases previously considered incurable.

veloped that enable a deeper understanding

of disease mechanisms and open new approaches

for diagnostics and therapy.

At Charité‘s „Berlin Center for Advanced

Therapies“ (BeCAT), specialized units and

laboratories develop so-called „living“ medicines.

These innovative drugs are based

on genes, cells, and tissues. They not only

treat tangible symptoms but aim to fundamentally

treat diseases and sustainably restore

patients‘ health.

The Senator for Science, Dr. Ina Czyborra,

stated: „BeCAT and Si-M represent a fundamental

change in how we think about,

develop, and make medicine accessible to

people. Here, bold cutting-edge research

becomes tangible hope – with new therapies

for previously incurable diseases and

technologies like 3D bioprinting and multi-organ

chips, which will revolutionize research

and reduce animal testing. And what

is especially important to me: we accelerate

the path from idea to actual treatment for

patients – all under the shared roof of the innovative

and dynamic campus in Wedding.

This solidifies Berlin‘s role as the pulsating

heart of health innovation.“

From Vision to Reality

The two research centers „The Simulated Human“ (Si-M; right) and „Berlin Center

for Advanced Therapies“ (BeCAT; left) on the Bio- and Medical Technology Campus.

With the research centers BeCAT and Si-M

on the Campus for Bio- and Medical Technology,

the vision of pioneering medical research

for the benefit of patients has taken

concrete form. Both centers will actively

shape the development of innovative technologies.

Federal Minister for Research, Technology

and Space, Dorothee Bär, emphasized in the

presence of numerous guests from science,

health, and politics: „Top-level research requires

excellent infrastructure. With investments

like the more than 31 million euros

that the BMFTR provided for the research

centers opened today, of particular scientific

quality, we send a clear signal: Germany

aims to be at the forefront worldwide in developing

new therapies. Our vision for the

medicine of the future is clear: making incurable

diseases curable. We are strategically

strengthening key technologies with our

High-Tech Agenda Germany and creating

the foundation for medical progress to reach

people faster. This is modern research and

health policy from a single source.“

Interdisciplinarity as the Key to Success

The focus of the „The Simulated Human“

(Si-M) research center of TU Berlin and

Charité is the realistic replication of human

biology, from molecular processes to complex

tissues and organ functions. Through

close integration of engineering and medical

expertise, innovative models can be de-

Both research centers are conceived as places

for exchange among themselves and

with an interested public. This is also reflected

in the architecture of Si-M: open space

concepts, diverse communication areas,

and public spaces such as the so-called

Theatron, an auditorium in the center of the

ground floor where listeners sit in a ring on

terraces, are intended to promote dialogue

between science and society.

President of TU Berlin, Prof. Dr. Fatma Deniz,

added: „If we want to understand the

complexity of the human body, we need

to bring disciplines together anew. That is

exactly what we are advancing. With TU

Berlin‘s engineering strength and Charité‘s

medical expertise, we are creating a unique

place in Si-M where excellent basic research

becomes concrete application.“

The close connection between research and

technology is also reflected in the infras-


Seite 28/67

tructure: The buildings are connected via a

shared technical platform and were planned

to meet the future demands of highly complex

biomedical research.

Prof. Dr. Heyo K. Kroemer, Chairman of the

Charité Board, added: „Both research centers

represent a strategic shift in medicine:

it is about establishing innovative methods

of personalized medicine with a focus on

cell and gene therapy. Together with strong

partners from university and private industry,

we are creating an environment here in

Berlin that enables innovation from idea to

application for our patients.“

BeCAT and Si-M are also central components

of the growing Campus for Bio- and

Medical Technology in Berlin-Wedding.

The Si-M, as a joint building of TU Berlin

and Charité, particularly exemplifies the

strategic collaboration of leading institutions

with the goal of transferring scientific

insights more quickly into clinical practice

so that they benefit patients as early as possible.

Additional Voices on the Opening of the

Si-M and BeCAT Research Centers:

Prof. Dr. Sina Bartfeld, spokesperson for

Si-M, TU Berlin: „Many diseases can only

be inadequately studied so far because our

models do not accurately reflect humans.

In Si-M, we develop and use new model

systems such as organoids and organ-ona-chip

to understand human biology more

precisely and to make differences between

patients visible. This creates the foundation

for research that is closer to humans and

opens new pathways for medicine.“

Prof. Dr. Andreas Thiel, spokesperson for Si-

M, Charité: „The new research institute ‚The

Simulated Human‘ stands for a conscious

departure: We are creating excellent conditions

specifically for young research groups

because innovation arises precisely there,

and excellence can be established where

new ideas are given early room. At the same

time, this institute thrives on interdisciplinarity

and openness – TU Berlin and Charité

together – as a dynamic research space that

will continually evolve.“

Prof. Dr. Joachim Spranger, Dean of Charité:

„With BeCAT and Si-M, we are laying

the groundwork for therapies that directly

benefit people – from personalized cell and

gene therapies to more precise disease models.

Our goal is to improve healing chances,

reduce side effects, and bring research

more quickly into effective applications for

patients.“

Astrid Lurati, Board Member for Finance

and Infrastructure of Charité: „With the

opening of BeCAT and Si-M, we are making

a significant step toward modern research

infrastructure on the Charité campus. This

was made possible through forward-looking

funding for research by federal and state governments,

covering construction costs of

40.9 million euros for Si-M and 37.9 million

euros for BeCAT. Si-M also demonstrates

how a highly complex construction project

can be successfully implemented in close

partnership with TU Berlin.“

Prof. Dr. Annette Künkele-Langer, Director

of BeCAT: „The possibilities of these novel

therapies seem limitless, and bringing these

hope-bringers into the clinic is the task of

The Si-M is officially opened.

(from left: Prof. Dr. Joachim Spranger,

Dr. Ina Czyborra, Dorothee Bär,

Astrid Lurati,

Prof. Dr. Sina Bartfeld,

Prof. Dr. Fatma Deniz,

Prof. Dr. Heyo K. Kroemer,

Prof. Dr. Andreas Thiel)

BeCAT. Researchers from Charité, the Berlin

Institute of Health in Charité (BIH), the

Max Delbrück Center (MDC), or Si-M come

to us so that we can jointly develop and produce

drugs for early clinical trials. Additionally,

we bring these under Berlin‘s leadership

into national networks such as the

National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT).“

Joel Hahn, Managing Director of Telluride

Architecture: „The Si-M building is unusually

public for a research facility. Interior and

exterior spaces merge. It is a place that fosters

encounters and exchange. This openness,

along with the connection between

science and the public, makes the building

a transformative space that goes far beyond

pure research.“

Almin Peljto, Managing Director of DGI

Bauwerk: „BeCAT is a specialized research

and cleanroom building that provides stateof-the-art

laboratories and infrastructure

for developing innovative therapies. Both

buildings, BeCAT and Si-M, are not only architecturally

but also in their research logic

consistently oriented toward the future and

interdisciplinarity. They exemplify the connection

between architecture, science, and

innovation.“

Technische Universität Berlin

D 10587 Berlin


Seite 29/67

Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions (FHCS) announces the successful completion

of its voluntary public takeover offer of Nilfisk.

Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions

completes takeover offer of Nilfisk

Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions (FHCS) has

successfully completed its voluntary public takeover of Nilfisk

and has become majority shareholder with more than

90 % of the share capital and the associated voting rights in

Nilfisk. FHCS intends now to initiate and complete a compulsory

acquisition of the shares held by the remaining Nilfisk

shareholders and to delist Nilfisk. With this acquisition,

FHCS brings together two strong and highly complementary

players in professional cleaning.

The acquisition marks a significant step in the global professional

cleaning industry. With the acquisition of Nilfisk, FHCS brings together

two very strong and highly complementary players in professional

cleaning. While FHCS is a global player in innovative manual

cleaning systems, Nilfisk is a globally recognized technology leader

in professional cleaning machines. Together, the companies span

two core segments of the professional cleaning market.

“With the acquisition of Nilfisk, we are strengthening our position

across both innovative manual systems and professional cleaning

machines, creating a uniquely positioned provider to support our

customers with more comprehensive solutions. The intention is to

build on the respective strengths of each business”, said Karin Overbeck,

CEO of FHCS.

Stable market with evolving customer needs

The professional cleaning market is stable and resilient. To succeed

in this market, a strong focus on customer needs is essential. Technology-driven

machines, digital solutions, and innovative manual

cleaning products are expected to play an increasingly important

role in the future. The acquisition of Nilfisk strengthens FHCS’s

position to support customers with the right solutions.

Ensuring continuity for customers and partners is currently our key

priority. FHCS will connect sales capabilities and customer reach

across both businesses to create opportunities for additional growth.

Becoming part of the Freudenberg Group

Following the completion of the compulsory acquisition of remaining

shares, Nilfisk will become part of FHCS and thereby part of

the Freudenberg Group, a global family owned technology company.

Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions GmbH

D 69469 Weinheim


Seite 30/67

MASTER OF PURITY

Reinraum-Tücher

HiTech-Sondertücher

Reinraum-Papier

gefertigt im Ostseewerk Lübeck

Semiconductor Medical

Microelectronics Space

CLEAR & CLEAN Werk für Reintechnik GmbH

info@clearclean.de www.cleanboss.de


New construction strengthens strategic market leadership in CEE and SEE.

Construction start in April 2026

SALESIANER group expands cleanroom and

operating room linen production in Oradea

The SALESIANER Group is expanding its location in Oradea, Romania,

with a new, state-of-the-art production infrastructure. The

plan includes the construction of a cleanroom production facility for

the Micro & Clean sector, as well as a separate area for sterile processing

of surgical textiles. Construction is scheduled to begin in April

2026, with commissioning expected in the first quarter of 2027.

With this expansion, the internationally active textile management

company takes another step in its strategic growth and innovation

orientation in the field of hygiene-critical textile supply, while

simultaneously strengthening its market position in Central and

Southeastern Europe. „Our strategy is clearly focused on expanding

highly specialized service and production capacities in growthoriented,

sensitive segments. With the Oradea location, we are specifically

creating additional capacities to serve our international customers

even more efficiently and at the highest quality level in the

future,“ explains Thomas Krautschneider, Managing Partner of the

SALESIANER Group.

The decision to expand in Oradea is also based on positive local

experiences and the group‘s existing market position in the region.

„As a market leader in CEE and due to our very good experiences

in Oradea, we decided to realize this investment right here. The

location offers ideal conditions for further growth and a long-term

strengthening of our network,“ says Victor Ioane, CEO of the SALE-

SIANER Group.

In addition to market position, the market perspective also emphasizes

the importance of the project. „We see a significantly growing

market potential in this segment. The demand from our customers

in pharma, microelectronics, automotive, and high-tech industries

is continuously increasing, especially in the area of cleanroom

and operating room-related services,“ says Markus Schad, Director

of Micro & Clean at the SALESIANER Group.

Oradea has been a central part of the SALESIANER Group‘s

production and service network for years and plays an important

role within the company‘s international structure. With the new

construction, the group strengthens its regional anchoring and further

expands its capabilities in a highly specialized market segment.

With this investment, the SALESIANER Group emphasizes its longterm

growth strategy and continues to position itself as a leading

provider of integrated textile services for demanding industries in

Europe.

About the SALESIANER Group

SALESIANER is an Austrian family business with over 110 years of

experience in rental textiles and textile services. The company is a

market leader in Austria as well as in Central, South, and Eastern Europe,

operating branches in 11 countries. The focus is on top quality,

hygiene, sustainability, and high supply security.

SALESIANER MIETTEX GmbH

AT 1220 Wien


Seite 32/67

AveThera Acquires

Fraunhofer ITEM‘s

Braunschweig

Location

The Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental

Medicine ITEM has completed the sale of its Braunschweig

location to AveThera GmbH. Through this acquisition, the

Braunschweig location will now be taken over by a young

company that plans to use the location‘s expertise and infrastructure

to develop innovative solutions.

Due to the strong industryoriented

business model of

Fraunhofer ITEM‘s Pharmaceutical

Biotechnology division in

Braunschweig, the institute‘s

management, together with

Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft headquarters,

pursued the takeover

of the location and its employees

by a private sector company. The

Braunschweig location attracted considerable interest from numerous

biotech companies. The new owner brings fresh perspectives

and resources to fully harness the existing technologies and talents.

The buyer, AveThera GmbH, aims to develop, manufacture and

internationally market differentiated biologics. They are therefore

investing in the establishment of modern production facilities for

biological active ingredients and pharmaceuticals, as well as quality

control and assurance laboratories, at their Hennigsdorf location.

Their new location in Braunschweig will complement this infrastructure

with additional development and production capacities. In

doing so, AveThera is creating conditions for accelerated market access

of several biologics products within the next three to four years

– with the goal of providing innovative therapies for patients in Germany,

Europe and around the world.

“The acquisition of the Braunschweig location by AveThera

GmbH is a significant step in successfully transferring knowledge

to industry. Given the location’s strong industry orientation and its

highly entrepreneurial business model, the takeover by a private sector

company is not only logical but will also enable the site to realize

its full innovative potential,” says Holger Hanselka, President of the

Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. “With this decision, we are not only securing

the future of the location but also creating new perspectives

for innovation and collaboration in the region. I firmly believe that

the employees’ existing expertise aligns optimally with AveThera

GmbH‘s portfolio and will make an important contribution to the

company‘s innovative capacity and success.”

The Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) welcomes

the preservation of GMP production in Braunschweig, emphasizing

that this will strengthen the innovative power of the research

campus and its further development. AveThera expands the circle

of biotechnology companies at the location and is now part of the

innovation campus.

The transition took place on March 16, 2026.

Fraunhofer-Institut für Toxikologie und Experimentelle Medizin ITEM

D 30625 Hannover

© Fraunhofer ITEM,

Andreas Krukemeyer

NEWSLETTER | Ausgabe DE 06-2026

Seite 33/67

Signatures of ancient pathogen DNA

reconstructed from prehistoric animal

remains extend scope of paleomicrobiology

and open a path towards identifying

the origins of zoonoses.

Ancient animal

reservoirs of

zoonotic diseases

Lead scientist Anne Kathrine W. Runge extracts DNA in the clean room

at the Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology to avoid contaminating

the scarce DNA from archeological animal remains.

© Christian Denkhaus / Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology

The study investigates zoonotic pathogens during the Eurasian

Bronze Age, a period of intense migration and the

introduction of pastoralism, which facilitated the transmission

of animal pathogens to humans. An international

team analysed 346 samples (primarily from domesticated

animals) from 34 archaeological sites. The study primarily

examined bones with palaeopathological lesions and teeth

to detect DNA traces of early infections. Using sensitive

methods, the researchers identified pathogens such as

Streptococcus lutetiensis and Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae,

confirming the prehistoric origins of zoonotic infections.

– Context: Many human diseases are zoonotic. During the Eurasian

Bronze Age (starting around 5,000 years ago) humans experienced

major migrations and the introduction of pastoralism, which

likely fostered pathogen spillovers from animals into humans.

However, ancient pathogen DNA from animal remains is underexplored

and technically challenging.

– Study design: An international and interdisciplinary team identified

346 specimens from primarily domesticated animals across

34 Eurasian sites, many dating to the Bronze Age period, to test

for preserved ancient pathogen DNA.

– Targeted sampling: To boost detection, they prioritized bones

with paleopathological lesions indicative for past infection (215

bones, 188 with lesions) and included 131 teeth to capture DNA of

systemic infections preserved in dental pulp.

– Methodology & findings: Clean-room ancient DNA extraction

and sensitive computational screening revealed multiple zoonotic

pathogen signatures. Two pathogens (Streptococcus lutetiensis,

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae) had enough fragments for comparative

analysis, confirming ancient authenticity.

– Implications: Lesion-based prioritization enriched for positives

and offers a cost-effective strategy, but sampling varied skeletal

elements remains crucial. The study provides proof-of-concept

for using zooarchaeological ancient DNA to trace reservoirs,

spread, and spillover mechanisms of prehistoric zoonoses.

An uncharted path – ancient pathogen

DNA from the zooarchaeological record

The majority of human infectious diseases today have a zoonotic

origin, meaning they jumped from animals into humans. Different

lines of evidence suggest that the Eurasian Bronze Age starting

around 5,000 years ago was a pivotal period when many zoonoses

emerged that still exist today. Anne Kathrine W. Runge, lead author

of the study says: “The Bronze Age period was characterized by major

human migrations and, importantly, the widespread adoption of

pastoralism – a type of subsistence based on domesticated animals.

While it is hypothesized that this may have paved the way for the

emergence of zoonoses, ancient pathogen DNA investigations of

animal remains is so far largely lacking.”

The reconstruction of ancient pathogen genomes from animal

remains – the zooarchaeological record – faces additional challenges

compared to the more established ancient pathogen genome

reconstruction from human remains. “During prehistory the majority

of animals were slaughtered while being healthy; butchered

animals were heated during food preparation and discarded animal

parts were more exposed to the environment – all in all lowering the

likelihood of pathogen DNA identification.” says Felix M. Key, research

group leader at the Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology

and senior author of the study. “However,” he adds “ancient pathogen

reconstruction from the zooarchaeological record holds unique

potential for elucidating the reservoirs of prehistoric zoonotic diseases,

the geographic spread, and the genetic mechanisms facilitating

spillover into the human population.”

Here an international, interdisciplinary team of experts set out

to explore the possibility of ancient pathogen DNA identification

from the zooarchaeological record. In a study now published in the

journal Nature Communications the authors tested 346 specimens

of primarily domesticated animals from 34 archeological sites across

Eurasia – many of which from the Bronze Age – for the preservation

ancient pathogen DNA.

Paleopathologies for prioritizing specimen collection

The generation of ancient DNA is costly and the analysis hampered

by archeological samples without any DNA signature for pathogens


Seite 34/67

Animal remains investigated for paleopathological lesions at the German Archeological Institute.

© Anne K. W. Runge / Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology

– an aspect likely elevated when investigating animal specimens. In

this study skeletal material was selected primarily from domesticated

animals from sites across Eurasia, including Poland, Germany,

Czech Republic, Romania, and Uzbekistan to test whether zoonotic

pathogen DNA can be recovered from prehistoric animal remains.

In order to make the screening effort more targeted, specimens were

selected that showed signs indicative for the presence of disease

and trauma, known as paleopathological lesions. “I examined hundreds

of specimens to detect windows of potential infection, seen as

lesions, to increase the chances to recover ancient pathogen DNA of

zoonotic diseases”, emphasizes Kamilla Pawłowska, a paleopathology

expert from Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań and senior

author of the study. She adds: “I discovered, among others, lesions

of inflammatory and traumatic origin, which was pivotal to keep the

molecular investigation feasible”. In total, 215 skeletal elements were

selected for analysis of which 188 bones had lesions. Moreover, because

the dental pulp chamber is a known source of ancient DNA

from systemic pathogens that often leave no paleopathological lesions,

an additional 131 teeth were selected for ancient pathogen DNA

investigation.

Pathogen DNA identification and authentication

Following the archival work, all selected specimen were transferred

to a clean room facility at the Max Planck Institute for Infection

Biology for molecular biology work. “Extracting ancient DNA from

skeletal elements requires a clean room and personal protective

equipment, a demanding precaution that is necessary to minimize

the risk of contaminating samples with modern DNA,” says ancient

DNA expert Anne Kathrine W. Runge. Following the sequencing of

the DNA extracted from each sample the genetic data was screened

for ancient pathogen DNA fingerprints using a previously developed

highly sensitive computational methodology. “We were pleased to

discover ancient DNA signatures for many different zoonotic pathogens,

though the amount of ancient DNA was mostly insufficient to

reconstruct a genome and do in-depth comparisons to the diversity

of these same pathogens in modern livestock and humans” says Ian

Light-Maka, a co-author and bioinformatician. Nevertheless, two

zoonotic pathogens, Streptococcus lutetiensis causing mastitis and

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae leading to skin infection, had sufficient

ancient DNA fragments for such an analysis. “The inferred relationships

confirm the ancient authenticity and provide further credence

to the possibility of identifying prehistoric pathogen genomes from

animal remains,” Light-Maka adds.

Among the specimen positive for pathogen DNA, most carried

identified pathological lesions. “That primarily specimen end up

positive that showed lesions indicative for infectious diseases validates

our prioritization scheme and helps future investigations to

select specimen despite financial constraint. However, it remains

important to sample different skeletal parts as the biology of pathogens

differs and many pathogens, for example during blood-stream

infections, may be identifiable best in other elements like teeth”,

Kamilla Pawłowska emphasizes. All authors highlight that this study

demonstrates the importance of animal paleopathological investigations

and reinforce a multifaceted approach to reconstructing health

in the past.

Future work in ancient pathogen genomes, reconstructed from

animal but also human remains hold great promise to better understand

the origin of contemporary zoonotic diseases. With large collections

of animal remains remaining untapped for investigations

of pathogens Felix M. Key summarizes that “With the pendulum in

ancient pathogen genomics swinging towards non-human host species,

our study provides an important proof of work in this nascent

field to better understand the emergence of human infectious diseases”.

Max-Planck-Institut für Infektionsbiologie

D 10117 Berlin


Seite 35/67

Numerous support services for companies

New real-world laboratory for

legally compliant AI and robotics

at the AI Advancement Center

The new real-world laboratory at the AI Progress Center in Stuttgart has started.

It supports Baden-Württemberg companies in technology development as well

as legal and regulatory questions surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics.

On May 6, 2026, the AI Progress Center will host an Open Lab Day with

expert lectures and demonstrations at the Fraunhofer laboratories. Companies

can apply for funded „Quick Checks“ until May 21, 2026.

The AI Progress Center supports companies,

for example, in implementing and further developing

AI in business processes. © Fraunhofer

IPA / Photo: Phil Aznar / Lukas Zwiessele

panies will receive, among other things,

concrete support for applying for one of the

two formats (more information at the end of

the press release).

Three technology focus areas

for the future

The AI Progress Center focuses on application

development for humanoid robots and

makes it tangible in practice.

© Fraunhofer IPA/Photo: Rainer Bez

Due to the significant impact of the „Learning

Systems and Cognitive Robotics“ AI

Progress Center, the Ministry of Economics,

Labour and Tourism of Baden-Württemberg

is funding the expansion of the AI Progress

Center with a real-world laboratory. This

builds on the successfully completed pilot

project „KIRR Real – Real-world Laboratory

for Legally Compliant AI and Robotics“ in

December 2025 and brings both initiatives

into a new phase.

The new „Real-world Laboratory for Legally

Compliant AI and Robotics at the AI

Progress Center“ supports small and medium-sized

enterprises (SMEs) as well as

the middle class in developing innovative

AI and robotics applications in accordance

with the European AI Regulation (EU AI

Act) and other relevant legal regulations.

Companies can contact the

AI Advancement Center for all

questions regarding the safe and

standards-compliant use of AI and

robotics. © Fraunhofer IPA

Application deadline for

funded „Quick Checks“: May 21, 2026

Interested companies can apply until May

21, 2026, with specific, ambitious AI innovation

projects for one of the funded

Quick Checks by the Baden-Württemberg

state government. There are two possible

formats:

– Quick Check: This format assesses

the technical feasibility of an idea or

innovation related to robotics and AI.

– Legal Quick Check: If robotics or AI are

already in use or about to be, companies

receive an analysis of the application

case regarding regulatory questions.

Additionally, the next necessary steps

for legally compliant implementation

are jointly defined.

On May 6, 2026, the next Open Lab Day will

take place at the AI Progress Center. Com-

The work of the expanded AI Progress Center

focuses on the following three areas:

Generative and Agentic AI: In this work

package, participating experts research and

develop AI assistance systems for corporate

and production processes, synthetic data

generation for quality testing, and hybrid

AI approaches that combine large language

models with expert knowledge. The basis is

real use cases from companies.

Humanoid Robots: This focus area addresses

the increasing importance of humanoid

robotics. The AI Progress Center

analyzes available solutions on the market,

develops safety concepts, and tests concrete

application scenarios. Together with companies,

potential use cases are identified,

training sessions are conducted, and handson

experiences with humanoid robots are

enabled.

AI Compliance and Regulatory Learning:

The work around this third area forms

the core of the real-world laboratory at the

AI Progress Center. Here, use cases from the

aforementioned areas are analyzed regarding

the requirements of the AI Regulation

and related European legal regulations (e.g.,

Machinery Regulation, Medical Devices

Regulation, or GDPR). The goal is to create

practical tools, guidelines, and processes

for the legally compliant development of AI

systems. By establishing a panel of relevant

authorities and supervisory bodies, regulatory

questions are clarified through direct

exchange, and identified hurdles are fed

back into the legislative process.


Seite 36/67

Diverse participation opportunities

for companies

The AI Progress Center offers companies

with at least one branch or headquarters in

Baden-Württemberg numerous low-threshold

formats for participation. The main

goal of the new project phase is to achieve

broad impact within the local business

landscape to significantly strengthen the region‘s

position in the highly relevant future

technologies of AI and robotics.

In addition to the Quick Checks and Open

Lab Day mentioned above, there are other

participation opportunities for companies

to benefit from the offerings. These include,

for example:

– Online consultation hours for initial

contacts and specific questions

– Topic-specific consultation hours for

in-depth discussions in smaller groups

– Industry network for continuous needs

assessment

– Online presentations on current AI trends

– Training on humanoid robotics

– Experiments and evaluations in the

laboratories of the AI Progress Center

All insights and results will be made widely

available through handouts, demonstrators,

fact sheets, and the project website (www.

ki-fortschrittszentrum.de).

Successful knowledge

and technology transfer continues

Since 2019, the „Learning Systems and Cognitive

Robotics“ AI Progress Center has

been operated jointly by the Fraunhofer

Institutes for Production Technology and

Automation IPA and for Work Science and

Organization IAO, together with the University

of Stuttgart. In December 2025, the successful

six-year funding by the Ministry of

Economics, Labour and Tourism of Baden-

Württemberg ended. During this time, the

AI Progress Center collaborated with 375

companies and carried out over 200 funded

transfer measures. These ranged from initial

idea development to the creation of prototype

demonstrators.

Strong consortium and ecosystem

The real-world laboratory at the AI Progress

Center is closely networked with Cyber

Valley, Europe‘s center for excellent AI and

robotics research, with the AI-MATTERS

research project, the High-Performance

Computing Center Stuttgart (HammerHAI),

the IPAI Heilbronn, and numerous regional

partners and associations.

With a total funding volume of two million

euros, the AI Progress Center again

makes an important contribution to the

innovative strength and international competitiveness

of the Baden-Württemberg

economy.

All information about the application process:

https://www.ki-fortschrittszentrum.de/zusammenarbeit/

Fraunhofer-Institut für Produktionstechnik und

Automatisierung IPA

Nobelstraße 12

D 70569 Stuttgart

Telefon: +49 711 970 1667

eMail: joerg-dieter.walz@ipa.fraunhofer.de

Internet: http://www.ipa.fraunhofer.de


Sanner and PulmoBioMed:

Innovation for lung sample collection

receives CE marking

Design specialist for medical technology products and

CDMO Sanner, together with the medical device company

PulmoBioMed Ltd, have jointly achieved CE marking for

PBM-HaleTM. The technology for collecting breath samples

is approved as the first solution for non-invasive, saliva-free

samples from deep lung areas for clinical and research

purposes throughout Europe and the USA. Together,

Sanner and PulmoBioMed developed the groundbreaking

device from prototype to market launch, which is now ready

for series production.

Obtaining representative samples from the deep lung today involves

invasive, costly, and risky procedures that are only intended for severely

ill patients and are unsuitable for routine or repeated testing.

As a result, causes of lung diseases often remain untreated, while

their symptoms are instead addressed therapeutically.

The British medical technology company PulmoBioMed aims to

challenge invasive clinical diagnostic procedures and advance respiratory

research and the development of future methods. This led to

PBM-HaleTM, a non-invasive device for collecting breath samples

from the deep lung. By collecting saliva-free breath condensate from

the distal lung, it minimizes contamination from the mouth, upper

airways, and the environment. Additionally, the solution is designed

to integrate into standard diagnostic workflows.

Development expertise from prototype to production

To develop the prototype into a market-ready product while receiving

regulatory support and cleanroom manufacturing capacity

from a single source, PulmoBioMed partnered with Sanner. Under

the leadership of development experts from Sanner UK, the design

underwent a rigorous product development process: risk analyses,

prototype and iterative design testing, as well as tolerance analyses

within a ISO 13485-certified quality management system, verified

the reliable functionality.

The team also involved experts early on for design transfer. Using

3D data and injection molding simulations, the design of the 17 parts

was optimized for subsequent manufacturing via injection molding

and for serial assembly. Meanwhile, the manufacturing teams ensured

that material selection and tool design met functional, regulatory,

and assembly requirements.

Cleanroom manufacturing to the highest standards

After verification, installation, and functional qualification (IQ/OQ),

Sanner produced the first 3,500 units in a Class 7 cleanroom. „We

were impressed from the very beginning by Sanner‘s professionalism

and the quality of execution as we witnessed our 3D-printed

prototype evolve into a robust, high-quality injection-molded product,“

says Dr. Sterghios A. Moschos, founder and CEO of Pulmo-

BioMed. In addition to the device itself, Sanner also developed the

concept for primary packaging, the secondary cartons bearing the

brand logo, and the tertiary multipacks necessary for shipping PBM-

HaleTM.

Successful development partnership for increased device accessibility

Sanner‘s integrated full-service CDMO approach proved crucial in

enabling PulmoBioMed to transition efficiently from development

to commercialization and to bring PBM-HaleTM to market. „The

process transfer from design to manufacture for scaled production

went smoothly, and the partnership took into account our needs

regarding strict quality and regulatory criteria,“ emphasizes Dr. Moschus.

With the CE marking now secured, PulmoBioMed plans to

introduce PBM-Hale in clinical studies and in collaborations with

diagnostic manufacturers, as well as pharmaceutical and biotechnology

companies in the USA and Europe. The company’s longterm

goal is to make lung disease diagnostics safer and accessible

to a broader patient population. „We look forward to conquering the

market together with Sanner and establishing a worldwide supply of

PBM-HaleTM,“ concludes Dr. Moschos.

Sanner GmbH

D 64625 Bensheim


Seite 38/67

Special storage as part of an artwork

Rodriguez manufactures

rotary joints for the movable

space object UMBILICAL

Storage technology usually works invisibly in the background.

In the case of the kinetic art installation UMBILI-

CAL, however, it becomes a visible part of the artwork itself.

For the large-format installation, in which giant yarn spools

weave a rope in an never-repeating sequence, Rodriguez

GmbH supplied a total of 44 custom-made rotary joints in

various sizes.

The work of British artist Conrad Shawcross consists of 40 interlocking

arms that continuously weave a rope, tracing the movements

of the solar system. With a height of ten meters and a diameter of

twelve meters, the installation combines artistic vision with high

technical complexity.

Precise technology for continuous operation

The mechanical implementation was developed by the British engineering

firm Brier Solutions. Through their contacts with R.A.

Rodriguez UK, a supplier of precision components, the German Rodriguez

GmbH was involved in the project as a specialist for storage

technology and custom solutions. Since the installation moves continuously

throughout the year and is only stopped once a year for

a spool change, the requirements were high: the components used

had to operate precisely, reliably, and durably at all times, and at the

same time withstand relatively high axial and radial forces, as well

as torque and tilting moments despite their compact dimensions.

Quiet operation was also very important to the customer.

Key to the collaboration was not only the technical suitability of

the products but also Rodriguez‘s ability to quickly and precisely

implement custom solutions. The company has many years of experience

in the development, manufacturing, and assembly of bearing

solutions and supplies international customers from various

industries.

Customized ball rotary joints

For the realization, Rodriguez developed special ball rotary joints.

They are particularly suitable for applications requiring high load

capacity and precise movement sequences. Therefore, they are typically

used in demanding areas such as construction and machine

tools, cranes, automation, robotics, aerospace, medical technology,

or wind turbines.

For the large-scale installation by Conrad Shawcross, Rodriguez

supplied a total of 44 custom-made rotary joints in various sizes.

(Image: R.A. Rodriguez UK (Ltd.))

At UMBILICAL, this technology was transferred into an unusual

context: unlike in classic industrial applications, the mechanics

are not hidden but are visible and directly experienceable

by the audience. „With this project, we were able to demonstrate

that we can respond flexibly to unusual customer requirements

and special installation situations. We find the right solution for

almost every application,“ emphasizes product manager Martin

Stremmel.

Rodriguez GmbH

D 52249 Eschweiler


Seite 39/67

Light as a Tool:

50 Years of Hoenle AG and

225 Years of UV Radiation

In 1801, physicist and naturalist Johann Wilhelm Ritter discovered ultraviolet

radiation in Jena. An insight that he himself could hardly interpret, but which,

with its particularly strong photochemical effect, would forever change the

scientific world.

225 years later, the Bavarian technology company Hoenle AG celebrates its 50th

anniversary: a milestone that shows how a physical phenomenon became an

industrial key technology.

adhesive systems that utilize UV technology

as a curing mechanism. This vertical competence

has been built up over decades and

proves to be a decisive advantage, especially

in times of economic change. The development

of highly efficient LED-UV expertise

at Hoenle is just one of many fundamental

building blocks.

Whether in electronics manufacturing,

automotive, medical technology, semiconductor

industry, or display production:

wherever precision, speed, and process safety

are required, Hoenle‘s UV systems are

found. The combination of hardware, consumables,

and engineering expertise provides

the company with resilience that pure

component suppliers cannot achieve.

Global Presence, Local Expertise

From Vision to Global Market Position

Founded in 1976 in the Munich area by

Prof. Dr. Karl Hönle and Dr. Günter Schmid

with the goal of developing innovative irradiation

solutions for industry and medicine,

Hoenle is today one of the internationally

leading providers of industrial UV technology

and adhesive systems. From a medium-sized

company with regional roots to a

globally operating technology corporation:

this transformation was achieved through a

consistent focus on innovation and growth

as strategic core principles.

„UV light is invisible, but its effects are

not. We make these effects precisely controllable,

reproducible, and economically

usable. That was the idea of our founders

in 1976, and it still guides our actions today.

Together with our customers, we develop

solutions that advance industrial high-tech

processes and create sustainable value for

technology, people, and the environment,“

says Dr. Franz Richter, CEO of Hoenle AG.

UV technology is used in industrial manufacturing

processes for solvent-free drying

and curing of adhesives, lacquers, and

paints, as well as for chemical-free sterilization

of surfaces, air, and water. This technology

is unbeatable in efficiency and sustainability.

Five Decades of Technological Continuity

What makes Hoenle unique is the depth of

its own expertise along the entire UV value

chain: from components like UV lamps to

system integration and application-specific

Especially in times of geopolitical uncertainty

and structural change, Hoenle relies

on customer proximity and innovation as

the foundation of future competitiveness.

The company benefits from megatrends

that structurally favor UV technology. Miniaturization

in electronics, the shift to

low-emission production methods, and the

growing demand for residue-free, fast-curing

joining technology and chemical-free

sterilization directly contribute to Hoenle‘s

portfolio. Thus, a significant contribution

to efficient and sustainable industrial manufacturing

processes will continue to be

made from Gilching near Munich in the future.

Hoenle AG

D 82166 Gräfelfing

Hoenle headquarters in Gilching near Munich. (Photo: Hoenle)


Seite 40/67

EFAFLEX is once again awarded

the title of „Future Champion

World Market Leader“

EFAFLEX is one of the international leading providers: WirtschaftsWoche has

awarded the company the title of “Global Market Leader Future Champion”. This

impressively confirms EFAFLEX’s technological strength, global market presence,

and sustainable growth strategy.

EFAFLEX Door and Security Systems has

been repeatedly recognized by Wirtschafts-

Woche as a “Global Market Leader Future

Champion”. Being included in this prestigious

ranking places EFAFLEX among German

industrial companies that are leading

providers in their market segment internationally,

with high market penetration and

sustainable growth.

The company was awarded in the segment

of rapid industrial doors. It is part of an exclusive

group of a total of 36 companies

named “Future Champions” in 2026. The

majority of these companies are highly specialized,

technology-oriented SMEs that

are successful through clear focus, high innovation

capacity, and consistent internationalization.

The Future Champions list is

compiled annually by WirtschaftsWoche in

collaboration with the University of St. Gallen.

The basis for the evaluation includes,

among other things, a leading market position

in the respective segment, a high proportion

of international sales, and demonstrable

international presence across multiple

continents. The goal of the ranking is to

make visible companies that are considered

technological pioneers and that have a lasting

impact on industrial competitiveness.

EFAFLEX has met these criteria for many

years. With an international sales and service

network, a strong presence in core industrial

markets, and continuous product

development, the company has established

itself as a reliable partner for industry, plant

engineering, and logistics. The company‘s

clear objective is to develop solutions that

are permanently available, seamlessly integrate

into existing processes, and meet the

highest safety and efficiency standards. Since

its founding, EFAFLEX has been dedicated

to the development and manufacturing

of high-performance rapid doors for industrial

applications. The focus is on high reliability,

precise functionality, and a consistent

orientation towards the requirements of

modern production, logistics, and industrial

environments. The recognition as “Global

Market Leader Future Champion” affirms

this approach and honors the company‘s

long-term strategic orientation. “Being included

in the Future Champions ranking

is a confirmation of our path,” explains Mr.

Anzeneder, Sales Managing Director at

EFAFLEX. “It shows that our technological

competence, international orientation, and

our standards of quality and availability also

convince on a global level.”

This award also emphasizes the importance

of the industrial SME sector as an innovation

driver. Many of the companies listed

in the ranking operate in highly specialized

niches, are successful globally, and are

firmly rooted in their regions. EFAFLEX

exemplifies this approach: technological

depth, long-term thinking, and a clear focus

on application-oriented solutions. WirtschaftsWoche

is one of the leading business

magazines in Germany and reaches decision-makers

in industry and SMEs through its

reporting. The Future Champions list is intentionally

aimed at companies whose market

position and international significance

are often less visible but whose influence on

industrial value chains is substantial. With

the “Global Market Leader Future Champion”

award, EFAFLEX strengthens its position

internationally and sends a clear signal

for continuity, technological excellence, and

sustainable corporate development. The

company also sees the award as an incentive

to continue its chosen path consistently and

to develop solutions in the future that meet

the demands of an increasingly connected

and automated industry.

EFAFLEX Tor- und Sicherheitssysteme GmbH & Co.KG

Fliederstraße 14

D 84079 Bruckberg

Telefon: +49 8765 820

Telefax: +49 8765 82200

eMail: info@efaflex.com

Internet: http://www.efaflex.com


Seite 41/67

GEMÜ headquarters receives

“Best Workspaces Award 2026”

The GEMÜ Group’s headquarters in the Hohenlohe business park in Kupferzell

has been awarded the prestigious “Best Workspaces Award 2026”. This makes

the building one of the award-winning projects that are setting new standards for

modern working environments across the German-speaking world.

The “Best Workspaces Award” is one of the

leading international architecture awards

for smart working environments and office

buildings. Each year, awards are presented

to outstanding projects whose architectural

quality, functional excellence and innovative

concepts impress the competition’s jury.

In 2026, around 70 projects were honoured,

including exemplary solutions in the fields

of interior design and structural engineering.

Judging the competition was an independent

panel of experts from the fields of

architecture, design, research and media.

The key criteria included versatility, collaboration,

communication, concentration and

well-being, as well as the level of innovation,

modernity and the architectural quality of

the buildings.

With its headquarters in Kupferzell,

GEMÜ has created a working environment

that goes far beyond traditional office design.

The building combines functional

requirements with a modern, employeeoriented

configuration that is specifically

intended to foster interaction, a sense of

belonging and productivity. In doing so,

GEMÜ has employed its holistic understanding

of working environments, focusing on

both the quality of the physical space and

the subjective well-being of its employees.

The interplay of architecture, functionality

and workplace culture creates an environment

that encourages communication and

enables trailblazing working practices.

“For GEMÜ, a modern working environment

is not just a ‘nice to have’, but a key

factor in our success. In building our new

headquarters, we have created an environ-

ment that fosters innovation, collaboration

and job satisfaction in equal measure.

“Open, versatile spaces, ergonomic workstations

and quiet havens of inspiration not

only boost productivity but also encourage

creativity among our staff,” said Gert Müller,

CEO and Managing Partner of the GEMÜ

Group.

The award is organised by the Callwey

Verlag publishing house in collaboration

with leading partners from the fields of architecture,

design and workplace research.

The aim is to showcase ground-breaking

workspace concepts and to encourage dialogue

between companies, designers and

manufacturers.

GEMÜ Gebr. Müller Apparatebau GmbH & Co. KG

D 74635 Kupferzell

Harro Höfliger sets the course for the future with two personnel decisions.

Harro Höfliger erweitert

Führungsstruktur

Timo Graf (left) and Marco Laackmann took up

new management roles at Harro Höfliger

on 1 April 2026.

As of April 1, 2026, Timo Graf has taken over

the role of Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

as part of a succession plan. At the same

time, the company is establishing the role of

Chief Sales Officer (CSO) for the first time,

which has also been filled by Marco Laackmann

since April 1, 2026.

Timo Graf assumes overall technological

responsibility from Peter Claußnitzer, who

has shaped Harro Höfliger for over 35 years

and has been CTO since 2006. Graf has

been with the company for twelve years and

most recently managed the Engineering and

Technical Services division. In his new role,

he will further develop the areas of technology

and development with a focus on future

viability and customer-specific added value.

Marco Laackmann will focus particularly on

technology sales in the newly created CSO

position, systematically explore market potentials,

and strengthen the company‘s global

sales organization. At the same time, he

will relieve Thomas Weller, who previously

handled this task in addition to his role as

Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Laackmann

has been part of Harro Höfliger for 15 years.

Most recently, he led the technology sales of

the Pharmaceutical Technologies division.

The Pharma Services division, which supports

process development for pharmaceutical

products, will continue to be managed

by Laackmann.

Harro Höfliger Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH

D 71573 Allmersbach im Tal


Seite 42/67

Debut at Anniversary Trade Fair:

2026 Fakuma Innovation Award

To mark the 30th Fakuma, taking place this year from Monday the 12th through

Friday the 16th of October, trade fair promoters P. E. Schall, in collaboration with

media partner K‐ZEITUNG, invites interested parties to submit entries for the

Fakuma Innovation Award. It will be presented for the first time this year to celebrate

the anniversary event and will honour technological excellence, innovative

strength and teamwork within the plastics processing industry. Submissions are

now being accepted in six different categories covering a broad range of topics

throughout the entire value chain. Entries will be evaluated by an independent

expert jury. The awards ceremony will take place on the first day of the trade fair

in Friedrichshafen.

Fakuma is celebrating its 30th anniversary

this year. Reason enough to reflect on

the development of this successful trade

fair, which began in 1981 with 76 first-time

exhibitors and has steadily grown to

become a major European platform for the

plastics processing industry. However, attention

is focused above all on the future,

and on new solutions that will enable the

industry to meet today’s and tomorrow’s

challenges.

And this is why trade fair promoters

P. E. Schall, together with trade publication

K‐ZEITUNG, are presenting the Fakuma

Innovation Award this year. It will generate

ground-breaking impetus for technological

progress in the plastics processing industry.

The award reflects the values that Fakuma

stands for: performance and competence.

The trade fair regularly sets new benchmarks

for future-oriented initiatives – in

terms of technology, the environment and

the economy.

The Fakuma Innovation Award will thus

provide plastics processing companies with

an international platform on which to present

their latest innovations to an interested

expert audience and showcase their innovative

strength.

Six Thematic Categories – Representing

the Entire World of Plastics

As of immediately, entrants can submit their

projects in one of the six categories including

injection moulding, extrusion, recycling,

tool and die making / thermoforming,

compounding and materials, as well as plastic

technology enablers (peripheral equipment).

In this way, the competition reflects

the entire value chain for plastics technology

– from materials and processing methods,

right on up to ancillary technologies.

The Fakuma Innovation Award covers the

entire range of topics featured at the trade

fair, including peripheral equipment and

automation solutions.

Festive Award Ceremony for the Winners

on the First Day of the Trade Fair

As an important condition of entry, it must

be possible to showcase the submitted

project live at Fakuma 2026 – as a production-ready

product, as a working prototype

or as a live demonstration of a technology.

Participation is free of charge. Entries can

be submitted online up through the 6th of

September, 2026. All entries will be revie-

wed and assessed by an independent expert

jury in accordance with established criteria.

The most promising innovations will be honoured

at a festive ceremony organised by

trade fair promoters P. E. Schall in collaboration

with their media partner. “We cordially

invite all plastics processing companies

to submit their entries for the 2026 Fakuma

Innovation Award,” says Bettina Schall, managing

director of trade fair promoters P. E.

Schall. “The industry is looking forward to

receiving exciting entries that provide benefits,

pioneer new approaches and help

tackle future challenges.”

International Industry Event with Strong

Impetus for Plastics Processing

Fakuma is widely regarded for its substantial

relevance for users, and its special ambiance

as a practice-oriented trade fair. Once again

this year, the industry can expect packed

exhibition halls with high levels of international

participation and a great atmosphere.

The 30th Fakuma will take place from

Monday the 12th through Friday the 16th of

October, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and will

once again transform the Friedrichshafen

Exhibition Centre into the home of a major

family celebration. Expert visitors can look

forward to an engaging and exciting supplementary

programme on all five trade fair

days featuring technical presentations at the

forum, the third edition of the Round-Table

Discussion and Career Friday for young professionals.

P. E. Schall GmbH & Co. KG

D 72636 Frickenhausen


Seite 43/67

Horizontal carton system IWK CH4.

(Copyright: IWK Packaging Technology GmbH)

Main themes at IWK: Smart Manufacturing · Innovative Materials · Future Skills interpack 2026

Smart packaging solutions since 1893:

IWK sets sustainable impulses for pharma and

cosmetics with premieres at interpack

IWK Packaging Technology GmbH presented itself at interpack 2026 in Düsseldorf with three live-producing machine

lines, setting strong impulses in the areas of Smart Manufacturing, Innovative Materials, and Future Skills. As a system

provider, IWK showcased the entire process chain from packaging development through secure filling and sealing to shelfready

solutions with end-of-line technologies. The focus was on flexible, process-safe production solutions and innovative

service offerings for the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, as well as non-food and food sectors. Anticipating the

megatrend of sustainability, visitors found solutions with innovative materials at the IWK exhibition stand.

Flexible, Sustainable Pharmaceutical Packaging

In the secondary packaging segment, IWK was showcasing for the

first time at interpack the latest generation horizontal cartoner platform.

At the leading trade fair, the cartoning system CH 4 injected

pens into sturdy carton trays, which are automatically inserted into

folding cartons. The folding carton and tray were produced by partner

Kartonveredelung Knapp.

The CH platform combines precise carton positioning with high flexibility

and energy efficiency: an innovative recuperation system in

the servo drive significantly reduces energy consumption by up to

21%. The linear process layout enables quick, reproducible, and toolfree

format changes. Thanks to its modular design, the platform is

particularly future-oriented and suitable for a wide range of applications

in pharma, cosmetics, and non-food sectors.

Process-Safe Ultrasonic Sealing Technology

In the tube filling technology sector, IWK is also setting new standards.

Tubes are sealed using ultrasound. This technology offers

additional advantages over the traditional hot-air process. By using

high-frequency mechanical vibrations, the necessary heat is generated

directly in the material, allowing the sealing surfaces to be

welded locally and with extreme control. This makes the process

energy-efficient. Even with creamy, oily, or pasty fillings, clean, secure,

and reproducible seal seams can be produced. Additionally, the

ultrasonic unit is quickly available since it does not require heating

and cooling of the sealing jaws.

For premium segments such as pharma and cosmetics, flawless

seam quality is crucial. Therefore, this technology enhances the qualitative

sealing of tubes. Since no external heat is applied, the material

and decoration are preserved, resulting in a visually very clean,


Seite 44/67

IWK CABLIblue 870 card-to-card blister system.

(Copyright: IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH)

Sustainable Material Variety on the Fastest Blister Machine

Tube Filling Platform IWK FP18 for ultrasonic welding

of plastic tubes. (Copyright: IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH)

Full carton blister from IWK made of fiber

materials at interpack 2026. Sustainable variety

of materials for robust full carton blisters on the fastest

card-to-card blister machine. (Copyright: IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH)

Flexible pharmaceutical packaging from IWK

at interpack 2026, produced on the energy-efficient

cartoner platform combined with precise carton positioning

and high flexibility. (Copyright: IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH)

narrow weld seam – an aesthetic advantage for demanding brand

presentations. Furthermore, IWK demonstrates a microdosing solution

at this station.

The inventor of the tube filling machine has been synonymous

with the highest reliability, hygienic safety according to GMP standards,

and impressive performance ranges from 70 to 760 tubes per

minute since 1893. Precise chain transports, smooth stainless steel

surfaces, and the clear separation of drive and filling area enable fast,

clean, and safe filling processes – especially for sensitive pharmaceutical

products.

A special highlight at the exhibition stand was the Card-to-Card material

variation on the CABLIblue 870. The system produces sturdy

full cardboard blisters entirely without single-use plastics, addressing

key requirements of the new EU Packaging Regulation PPWR.

The blister system demonstrates this future capability precisely:

the machine processes four different fiber-based materials from

new material, recycling, grass, and silphium, simultaneously in an

integrated production and sealing process – a world first. The IWK

engineers impressively demonstrate how high-quality full cardboard

blisters can be produced efficiently, resource-conserving, and process-stably

even under the new legal framework. The cover cards

and matching blister lids were provided and manufactured by the

packaging specialist Karl Knauer KG. Live, a bamboo toothbrush and

a toothpaste tube are being packaged – two products exemplifying

the trend toward plastic-free packaging solutions.

Thanks to its modular design, ergonomic stations, and extraordinary

material diversity, the CABLIblue 870 not only meets current

market needs but also future regulatory requirements regarding recyclability,

material minimization, and sustainable packaging design.

It is ideally suited for cosmetics, DIY items, medical technology, and

pharmaceutical applications – industries where sustainable packaging

transitions are particularly dynamic.

With the Card-to-Card technology, IWK positions itself as a forward-thinking

design partner that actively develops new solutions

rather than merely reacting to market changes. The CABLIblue 870

exemplifies how IWK develops innovative technologies that support

companies in transitioning to paper- and fiber-based packaging –

making a significant contribution to reducing plastics, complying

with future regulations, and establishing a true circular economy.

In addition to numerous trade fair highlights, IWK presented

other important topics from its overall portfolio as well as service

offerings in maintenance and aftersales. The IWK service relies on

global availability, technical expertise, and comprehensive support

throughout the entire machine lifecycle. This includes preventive

maintenance, quick spare parts supply, process optimization, and a

broad training program at the Technical Training Center. The goal

is maximum machine availability, secure production processes, and

rapid responsiveness – whether by phone, digital means, or on-site.

IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH

D 76297 Stutensee


Seite 45/67

Two IntElect machines to demonstrate efficient, connected production concepts

at the joint booth in hall B1 booth 1103

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Confirms

Participation at Fakuma 2026 with

a Clear Focus on All‐Electric Solutions

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag has confirmed its participation at

Fakuma 2026 and will present a focused exhibition concept

built on strong partnerships. In close coordination with trade

fair organiser Schall, an integrated joint stand is being

developed together with Technotrans and additional system

and technology partners. The concept brings together efficiency,

technological clarity and future focus, consistently

aligned along the technological process chain and specifically

tailored to clearly defined user groups.

Two all‐electric IntElect exhibits

take centre stage

At the heart of the presentation will be two all‐electric injection

moulding machines from the IntElect series, highlighting

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag’s technological expertise

across different target markets.

An IntElect 75 will be showcased with a consumer

application, realised in collaboration with an extensive

partner network covering peripherals and automation.

In addition, an IntElect S 280 will illustrate efficient,

high‐productivity manufacturing solutions for packaging

applications, supported by integrated system partners.

With this exhibit concept, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag

underlines its consistent commitment to all‐electric machine

technology, energy efficiency and connected production

concepts.

A sustainable exhibition concept

built on partnership

Special thanks go to trade fair organiser Schall. Its openness and flexibility

made it possible to realise an exhibition concept that meets both the strategic

objectives of Sumitomo (SHI) Demag and the framework conditions

of Fakuma. The close cooperation creates a presence with a perspective beyond

Fakuma 2026 and underlines the importance of the event as a central

European platform for plastics processing.

Statement from Anatol Sattel, CSO

“Our strategic direction is clear: we invest where we create the greatest added

value for our customers,” says Anatol Sattel, Chief Sales Officer of Sumitomo

(SHI) Demag. “Regional trade fairs, sector‐specific events and interactive

customer formats remain key pillars of our European exhibition and

event strategy. They enable us to present technological innovations close

to the market, in a targeted way and at the right time – efficiently and with

direct benefits for customers. With our Fakuma presence, we demonstrate

how modern exhibition concepts, strong partnerships and technological

excellence can be meaningfully combined. We owe the fact that this form

of participation is possible largely to our constructive collaboration with the

trade show organizer, Schall. We would like to express our sincere gratitude

for this.”

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag

D 90571 Schwaig


Seite 46/67

Precision for battery manufacturing:

Less effort, more output

At The Battery Show Europe (June 9-11, Stuttgart), Schmalz

will showcase vacuum solutions for stable and clean processes

in Hall 1 at Stand M11. The focus is on components that

handle delicate workpieces safely, respond flexibly to changing

geometries, and operate reproducibly.

With the spring impactor FSTImc, Schmalz presents a compact solution

for demanding applications. The component combines a very

soft spring with integrated flow elements. A flow valve (SVKG) precisely

controls the airflow, while a flow resistance (SW) dampens it.

This combination stabilizes the vacuum setup when not all suction

points are occupied. This allows users to handle different workpieces

with one gripper, as the system reacts to partial coverage. This

reduces setup times and saves costs. At the same time, the system

meets ESD requirements to prevent electrostatic discharges – an essential

feature in electronics and battery manufacturing. An online

configurator allows for convenient design of the spring impactor.

The small size predestines the spring strut FSTImc for applications

with limited space and high dynamics. (Image: J. Schmalz GmbH)

Clean processes without critical particles

For battery production, Schmalz presents the new compact terminal

SCTSi-BY. It completely omits copper, nickel, and zinc, as these metals

can release microparticles that significantly disrupt processes.

Thanks to integrated functions for vacuum generation and control,

users can handle different parts with just one vacuum system. Interfaces

(IO-Link or Ethernet) seamlessly integrate the compact terminal

into existing systems to monitor manufacturing in real time and

make targeted corrections.

Control and application from a single source

Whether cell production or module assembly: The magnetic

gripper SGM-SV-BY is suitable for safe handling of round cells even in

fast pick-and-place processes. (Image: J. Schmalz GmbH)

Additionally, Schmalz displays electronic vacuum and pressure switches

in a compact rectangular form. They precisely detect process

states and provide clear signals to the control system. This increases

safety, which is crucial in automated systems. For specific applications,

industry-specific grippers are available. The magnetic gripper

SGM-SV-BY for round cells and the suction grippers SFF/SFB1 cover

typical tasks. They are available in low-profile design (HT1), ESDcompliant

version (NBR-ESD), or as a combined solution (HT1-ESD)

for maximum flexibility.

Binar Handling, part of the Schmalz Group, complements the

trade fair innovations with an electric gripper that securely moves

circuit boards. The system meets ESD requirements and supports

ergonomic working.

J. Schmalz GmbH

D 72293 Glatten

The round vacuum gripper SFF moves sensitive and fragile workpieces

extremely gently. (Image: J. Schmalz GmbH)


Seite 47/67

New Romaco Tecpharm 400 tablet coater at interpack

Ideal for pharmaceutical coatings

with a very large weight gain

At interpack, Romaco was celebrating the world premiere of

its Tecpharm 400 tablet coater. This highly automated technology

offers special advantages for a coating with pharmaceutical

ingredients that often add a lot of weight to the

tablets. The one stop solutions supplier for processing and

packaging will also exhibit its VENTILUS® Lab fluid bed

processor for laboratory applications.

Tecpharm 400 tablet coater

Romaco Tecpharm’s highly automated Tecpharm 400 tablet coater

specializes in the coating of pharmaceutical ingredients that cause

the product to gain considerable weight. This is often the case with

combinations of ingredients containing Metformin, which cannot

be formulated as bi-layer tablets due to their size. Therefore, the second

layer of the formulation is sprayed on, to enable these medicines

to be swallowed easily.

In conventional systems, this process can take well over 20 hours,

during which time the tablets keep on increasing in weight and size.

As this happens, the movement of the tablet bed and the spray conditions

inside the drum change continuously.

The Tecpharm 400 has been equipped with

special features to handle the demands of this

highly variable process environment. It is the

first ever tablet coater to automatically adapt

the geometry and position of the baffles in line

with the tablet bed’s increasing volume during

the process. Its baffles make

sure the tablets move in the drum in such a way that uniform spraying

is achieved. The position and angle of the baffles in the tablet

bed must be adjusted regularly as the volume changes, to create the

ideal conditions for tablet coating. As its baffles are controlled automatically,

there is no need to stop the Tecpharm 400 in order to adjust

or replace components manually. This saves a great deal of time,

as the machine does not need emptying during operation. What’s

more, the fully automated system ensures safer working for operating

personnel, because at no time do they come into contact with

potentially high-potency products. Thanks to its flexibly adjusting

baffles, the Tecpharm tablet coater can tackle batch sizes ranging

from 5 to 100%, all with the same drum.

The optimum balance between quality,

yield and processing time

The Tecpharm 400 boasts a fully automated air distribution system

that steers the process air with precision through the tablet bed

using exhaust flaps that open steplessly. It also features Tecpharm’s

innovative PCA spray arm. The smart technology continuously measures

the distance from the tablet bed using radar, and constantly

adjusts both the distance and the spray angle. Mechanically, this is

achieved by the three-pivot-point design of the spray arm. For enhanced

process reliability, the machine also includes a system that

detects blocked spray nozzles by accurately identifying the affected

nozzles, and even has a self-cleaning function. The advanced level of

automation results in an ideal balance between product quality, yield

and duration of the coating process.

Fluidized Bed Processor VENTILUSÂ® Lab

Tecpharm 400 tablet coater


Seite 48/67

User-friendly and sustainable

The Tecpharm 400 also significantly improves ease of use, thanks

to its spray arm that automatically extends from the machine. This

brings major benefits in terms of ergonomics, particularly with large

machines on which the spray arm is above chest height for the operator.

Furthermore, sampling is a closed process, which protects

operating personnel from toxic medicines, because the drum coater

does not have to be opened manually to remove samples during

production.

To considerably reduce the carbon footprint of energy-intensive

coating processes, the Tecpharm 400 can optionally be fitted with

an energy recovery system (ERS). This system allows energy consumption

to be cut by up to 50%. To achieve this, a cross-flow heat

exchanger is installed in the air handling unit (AHU), which feeds

the energy from the process outlet air directly into the ongoing coating

process. The technology is ideal for production processes that

take several hours to complete and entail high power consumption.

The new Tecpharm 400 therefore excels on all fronts – with its outstanding

product quality and process efficiency, but also its ease of

use and excellent environmental credentials.

VENTILUS® Lab fluid bed processor

by Romaco Innojet

To showcase its broad and varied portfolio of laboratory machines,

Romaco will be presenting the VENTILUS® Lab fluid bed processor

from Innojet at interpack. This exceptionally versatile all-rounder is

used for granulating, drying and coating particles of any size from

10 µm to 2 mm. This multipurpose lab unit is intended for batch sizes

from 0.7 to 7.0 liters. With its innovative process air distribution

system inside the cylindrical product container, the required energy

can be used far more efficiently, enabling the VENTILUS® Lab to

cut batch processing times by up to 25%. The process air is introduced

through the circular ORBITER® booster, ensuring homogeneous

flow conditions and gentle intermixing of the batch. In combination

with a bottom spray nozzle located in the center, the booster

plate forms a unique functional unit enabling much simpler scale-up

processes. When it comes to nozzle technology, users can choose

between the tried-and-tested ROTOJET® and the new FLEXI-

JET®, which was specifically developed for granulation processes

and is both very easy to handle and quick to clean. The patented fluid

bed components invented by Dr. h. c. Herbert Hüttlin are behind

the remarkably accurate application of the spray liquid, with a precisely

defined droplet size. With controlled release formulations, for

instance, the modified release profiles are achieved using 10 to 15%

less material. This targeted reduction in the amount of spray liquid

used also means less power consumption, so that the VENTILUS®

Lab substantially reduces CO2 emissions from fluid bed processes.

Moreover, the rotating SEPAJET® filter system minimizes general

product loss by returning particles retained by the filter to the process

rather than discharging them.

Romaco Group

D 76227 Karlsruhe

GEMÜ is expanding the globe valve GEMÜ S40 series

Boosting efficiency,

lowering costs

Valve specialist GEMÜ is expanding globe valve GEMÜ S40 by actuator size 0,

thereby adding another flexible solution for small nominal sizes and low operating

pressures to the globe valve range of the latest product generation.

Globe valve GEMÜ S40 boasts a maintenance-friendly

construction, a high level of

operational safety and a compact, modern

design. In addition to the actuator sizes 1 to

6 already available, the valve now also comes

in the smallest size 0. This addition offers

customers even more flexibility for a wide

range of applications.

GEMÜ S40 is available for nominal sizes

from DN 6 to DN 80 and for operating pressures

from 0 to 40 bar. Actuator size 0 was

specially developed for applications with a

high switching frequency and enables rapid

switching cycles even where space is limited,

making it ideal for autoclaves or laboratory

applications. The valve combines a

compact design with efficiency and reliability

– offering genuine added value for users.

GEMÜ S40 mit 44A0

The new actuator size 0 makes GEMÜ S40

even more flexible in use and emphasizes

the consistent further development of

GEMÜ’s latest product generation. This

generation combines cutting-edge valves,

smart automation solutions and innovative

production methods, offering customers

maximum adaptability, straightforward integration

and space-saving applications.


D 74635 Kupferzell


Seite 49/67

CHINAPLAS 2026: BOY impresses

with precision and compact

solutions in the growing

Chinese market

Die CHINAPLAS 2026 (21.–24. April 2026)

hat sich erneut als eine der weltweit wichtigsten

Plattformen der Kunststoffindustrie

präsentiert. Die Dr. Boy GmbH & Co. KG

blickt gemeinsam mit ihrer chinesischen

Vertretung Andeli Co., Ltd. auf eine erfolgreiche

Messebeteiligung zurück. Das Unternehmen

konnte ein internationales Fachpublikum

begrüßen und seine Kompetenz

im Bereich kompakter und hochpräziser

Spritzgießtechnik eindrucksvoll unter Beweis

stellen.

Hohe Besucherqualität

und internationales Interesse

Die Messe zeichnete sich durch eine starke

Internationalität sowie eine hohe fachliche

Qualität der Besucher aus. Neben zahlreichen

chinesischen Interessenten nutzten

auch Fachbesucher aus Asien, Europa und

Australien die Gelegenheit zum Austausch.

Besonders erfreulich war der hohe Anteil an

Entscheidern, technischen Leitern und Ingenieuren

aus den Bereichen Medizintechnik,

Elektronik und Präzisionsspritzguss.

Viele Gespräche waren projektbezogen und

zeigten konkretes Investitionsinteresse.

Live-Anwendungen im Fokus

Im Mittelpunkt des Messeauftritts standen

zwei Maschinen: die BOY XS E sowie die

BOY 25 E.

Auf der BOY XS E wurde eine medizinische

Anwendung live demonstriert, die Produktion

einer resorbierbaren Gewebeklammer

mit einem Teilegewicht von nur 0,105 g.

Diese Anwendung unterstreicht die Stärken

der BOY Maschinen im Mikro- und Kleinteilespritzguss,

insbesondere hinsichtlich

Präzision, Wiederholgenauigkeit und Reinraumtauglichkeit.

Die BOY 25 E zeigte ihre Leistungsfähigkeit

bei der Fertigung hochpräziser

Kleinteile, darunter eine Gewindestange zur

Dosierung von Insulinpatronen mit einem

Gewicht von lediglich 0,093 g. Auch hier

standen Genauigkeit, Prozessstabilität und

die Verarbeitung anspruchsvoller Materialien

im Fokus.

Marktentwicklung: Qualität

gewinnt an Bedeutung

Die Gespräche auf der Messe bestätigten

einen klaren Trend: Während der klassische

Massenmarkt weiterhin stark preisgetrieben

ist, steigt die Nachfrage nach hochwertigen,

zuverlässigen und energieeffizienten

Maschinen, insbesondere in sensiblen Bereichen

wie der Medizintechnik.

Der Markt zeigt sich insgesamt vorsichtig

optimistisch. Statt reiner Kapazitätserweiterung

setzen viele Unternehmen auf

technologische Aufrüstung („Upgrading“),

um Ausschuss zu reduzieren und Produktionsprozesse

zu optimieren.

Technologietrends im Überblick

Die CHINAPLAS machte deutlich, welche

Themen die Branche aktuell bewegen: Miniaturisierung

und Mikropräzision, nachhaltige

Materialien und Kreislaufwirtschaft

sowie intelligente, datengetriebene Produktionsprozesse.

Besonders der Bereich

Medizintechnik entwickelt sich dynamisch

und stellt hohe Anforderungen an Maschinenkonzepte

und Prozesssicherheit.

Kompakte Bauweise

als Wettbewerbsvorteil

Ein zentrales Argument für das Interesse

an den BOY Maschinen ist ihre kompakte

Bauweise. Gerade im chinesischen Markt,

wo Produktionsflächen effizient genutzt

werden müssen, bietet dies entscheidende

Vorteile.

„Ein großer Markt wie China erfordert

Maschinen mit möglichst kleiner Aufstellfläche,

um eine hoch effiziente Produktion

zu ermöglichen. Mit unserer BOY XS E, die

nur 0,87 m² Stellfläche benötigt, konnten

wir dies eindrucksvoll demonstrieren und

viele Besucher von unserem Konzept überzeugen“,

erklärt Florian Schäfer, Teamleiter

/ Projektmanager Export.

Fazit

„Die CHINAPLAS 2026 war für BOY ein

voller Erfolg. Das Unternehmen konnte

seine Position als Spezialist für kompakte,

präzise Spritzgießlösungen weiter festigen

und wertvolle Impulse aus dem internationalen

Markt mitnehmen. Insbesondere im

Bereich Medizintechnik sieht BOY weiterhin

großes Wachstumspotenzial“ CEO Xin

Bingbin

Dr. Boy GmbH & Co. KG

D 53577 Neustadt-Fernthal


Seite 50/67

Clean construction begins in the details

New Hygienic DESIGN components from KIPP

for regulated production environments

When food is openly conveyed, active substances are processed under cleanroom

conditions, or chemical media circulate in closed systems, the details determine

safety and productivity. Screw caps, handles, transitions. Every edge can become

a weak point, every screw connection, every dead space a risk. With its Hygienic-DESIGN

line, KIPP addresses exactly these requirements. Currently, the manufacturer

of standard and control components has expanded its program with

additional components.

In the food industry, high throughput rates

meet strict regulatory requirements. Residues

in hard-to-reach geometries mean

not only additional cleaning effort but also

potential quality losses and recall actions.

In the pharmaceutical industry, GMP requirements

demand reproducible cleaning

processes, sterile conditions, and materials

that withstand aggressive cleaning and disinfecting

media. In packaging and process

technology, conveyor belts, filling stations,

and transport modules create product-rela-

ted zones with numerous transitions.

Hygienically optimized systems respond

constructively to these challenges. Smooth

surfaces, defined radii, and transition-minimized

geometries reduce adhesion. Cleaning

media can better reach critical areas.

This shortens cleaning cycles, reduces the

consumption of water, chemicals, and energy,

and extends maintenance intervals. At

the same time, risks of contamination and

quality deviations decrease.

Hinged handles and hexagon bolts in

Hygienic DESIGN

Against this background, KIPP is expanding

its portfolio of stainless steel standard and

control components for hygienically sensitive

production environments. The components

are designed according to Hygienic-DESIGN

principles, mainly made from

stainless steel A4 (material 1.4404), and use

FDA-compliant materials.

New in the program are stainless steel hinged

handles with sealing ring in Hygienic

DESIGN (K1962). They are used to open

and close covers, doors, drawers, or hoods.

Not only their stability and ergonomic shape

are important, but also the constructive

design with a specially developed sealing

ring made of POM. The geometry is designed

to minimize dirt and product buildup

and allow for continuous contact of cleaning

media.

Also new are hexagon bolts made of stainless

steel with a low head for sealing and

washer discs from the Hygienic-USIT® range

(K2131, K2132 as a set). The flatter head

shape reduces protrusions and facilitates

cleaning of adjacent surfaces. Together with

Freudenberg Sealing Technologies‘ Hygienic-USIT®

sealing technology, this creates

a clean and safe connection solution.

The combination is EHEDG-certified and

designed for product-related and productcontact

areas with the highest hygiene requirements.

Seal materials available include

EPDM in white or black, and FLUOROPRE-

NE XP in blue.

With the Hygienic-DESIGN and Hygienic-USITÂ® lines, KIPP offers innovative solutions

for hygiene-sensitive areas. New to the program are stainless steel handle bars with a sealing

ring in Hygienic DESIGN (K1962). Not only their stability and ergonomic shape are important,

but also the constructive design with a specially developed sealing ring made of POM.

(Copyright: KIPP / AdobeStock_289650428)

KIPP distinguishes between Hygienic DE-

SIGN, which focuses on geometry, surface,

and proprietary sealing solutions, and Hygienic

USIT® with sealing solutions from

Freudenberg. Both approaches aim for the

same result: constructive safety in sensitive

processes as an intelligently integrated

component of the system.

HEINRICH KIPP WERK GmbH & Co. KG

D 72172 Sulz am Neckar


Seite 51/67

E+E Elektronik at

Sensor+Test 2026

Under the motto “Step into the World of Trusted Measurement”, E+E Elektronik

will present its latest developments and innovative technologies for stable and

optimised processes at this year’s Sensor+Test in Nuremberg from 9 to 11 June.

With a focus on HVAC applications and home appliances, the company will highlight

precision in temperature and humidity control as well as the reduction of

maintenance costs at Booth 134 in Hall 1. E+E Elektronik will also showcase its

three latest sensor developments: the AVS701, the HTS401 and the TDS501.

Precision and reliability in temperature and

humidity control are essential for superior

product quality and greater efficiency. At the

same time, robust sensor solutions and low

maintenance costs are key. Thanks to their

modular component design, E+E Elektronik

sensors can be tailored precisely to customers’

individual systems. At the trade fair,

the company will present innovative technologies

that make systems and processes

smarter and more efficient.

Highly accurate measurements

for efficient building automation

Building automation and HVAC systems

are essential for creating comfortable, energy-efficient

and sustainable indoor environments.

From commercial and industrial

buildings to data centres, medical facilities,

transport hubs, and sports and entertainment

venues, precise measurement and

intelligent control of temperature, humidity,

CO₂ and airflow ensure reliable operation,

optimised energy use and long-term building

performance.

Solutions on display:

The HTS801 is a highly accurate humidity

and temperature sensor for particularly demanding

measurement tasks. It performs

reliably even under the most challenging

conditions, such as high humidity and chemically

polluted environments. Various pro-

HTS801 (Photo: E+E Elektronik Ges.m.b.H.)

AVS701 (Photo: E+E Elektronik Ges.m.b.H.)

TDS501 (Photo: E+E Elektronik Ges.m.b.H.)

be and housing options enable operation

from -80 °C to 180 °C and up to 300 bar.

The EE600 differential pressure sensor

is designed for reliable differential pressure

measurement in HVAC, building automation

and filter monitoring applications. It is

available in two versions for pressures up to

1000 Pa and 10000 Pa and offers outstanding

accuracy of ±0.5 % of full scale.

The HTS401 modular humidity and temperature

sensor offers modern humidity and

temperature measurement that is fail-safe,

precise and designed for the most demanding

environments. With measurement accuracy

of up to ±0.95 % RH and ±0.1 °C, as

well as an operating range of -40 °C to +80

°C, the HTS401 can be integrated flexibly

into a wide variety of applications, from

outdoor installations to cleanroom environments.

Lower maintenance costs thanks

to intelligent components

Maintenance costs time and money, especially

when sensors are difficult to access

or need to be replaced regularly. E+E Elektronik

sensor solutions feature a modular

design, allowing sensors and components

to be replaced quickly and easily. This helps

avoid long and costly downtimes. At the

same time, the flexible design creates additional

installation options and simplifies integration

into existing systems. E+E sensing

elements for humidity, CO₂, pressure and

temperature help maximise efficiency while

minimising maintenance costs.

Solutions presented by E+E Elektronik:

The EE895 module measures not only CO₂

concentration, but also temperature and

ambient pressure. Pressure and temperature

compensation with integrated sensors

minimises the influence of the environment

on the CO₂ measurement. As a result, the

EE895 offers particularly high CO₂ measurement

accuracy, regardless of altitude or

changing ambient conditions. It also recently

met the requirements of ANSI/ASHRAE

Standard 62.1-2022 (Addendum d).

The TEE501 digital temperature sensing


Seite 52/67

element delivers measurement accuracy of

up to ±0.2 °C and offers a wide operating

temperature range. Its compact DFN package

with integrated pull-up resistors enables

easy design-in.

New products at Sensor+Test

In addition to the HTS401, E+E Elektronik

will present the following new products:

The TDS501 delivers continuous dew point

data down to -70 °C Td and, with its new

four-element measurement principle, enables

uninterrupted 24/7 process monitoring.

At the same time, it supports efficient dehumidification

control. Thanks to its robust

industrial design and easy integration via

analogue and digital interfaces, the TDS501

helps reduce avoidable energy consumption

and unplanned downtime.

The AVS701 sets new standards in the

measurement of air and gas velocity. The

sensor has been proven to last up to 20 times

longer in harsh environments. It combines

highly accurate measurement, easy installation

thanks to precise sensor positioning,

and an integrated process gas library. An

optional external pressure sensor also compensates

for changes in ambient pressure.

High-End Sensor Calibration

– around the World

E+E Elektronik will also present its outstanding

expertise in calibration. As one of

the leading companies in this field, E+E

Elektronik ensures that instruments are

calibrated to the highest quality standards.

This guarantees optimum performance and

compliance.

E+E Elektronik Ges.m.b.H.

Langwiesen 7

AT 4209 Engerwitzdorf

Telefon: +43 7235 6050

Telefax: +43 7235 6058

eMail: info@epluse.com

Internet: http://www.epluse.com

Rodriguez: Thin-walled bearings

and value-added products at ILA 2026

From June 10 to 14, 2026, Rodriguez will present selected

solutions from precision bearing technology at the ILA aerospace

trade fair in Berlin. The focus will be on Value Added

Products (VAP) and versatile thin-ring bearings, which

even prove reliable in space applications.

Thin-ring bearings offer significant advantages, especially in applications

with limited space. Their lightweight, high precision, and ability

to operate reliably at high speeds and under extreme conditions

make them an ideal choice for various industries: from medical technology

to aerospace and robotics.

High-tech applications and value-added products

Rodriguez offers a wide range of thin-ring bearings for various applications.

Some specially adapted bearings have been proven reliable

for years in space missions, including in robotic arms on the exterior

of the International Space Station (ISS). The weight and size of these

ultra-slim bearings have been significantly reduced, and innovative

materials have been used. Such customized products and system solutions

are a core competence of Rodriguez: Value Added Products

(VAP) are manufactured by the company based on its own bearing

or linear technology components.

Rodriguez at the ILA

In addition to showcasing its products and expertise, Rodriguez also

aims to use the international trade fair for strategic networking, as

Ulrich Schroth, Head of the Value Added Products division, emphasizes:

„The fair is an important platform for us not only to showcase

our solutions but also to seek direct exchange with customers,

partners, and decision-makers. In aerospace, strong partnerships

are built on trust, reliability, and the ability to respond flexibly to new

requirements.“

Rodriguez presents, among other things, thin-ring bearings

and value-added products at the ILA in Berlin.

(Image: Rodriguez GmbH / ©stock.adobe.com/dimazel)

Rodriguez GmbH

D 52249 Eschweiler


Seite 53/67

Unity 600 blister packaging line

Romaco’s sustainable blister packaging line at interpack

As if cast from a single mold

At this year’s interpack, the Romaco Group presented its sustainable

Unity 600 high-speed blister packaging line, featuring – for the first time

– the PF 75 stretch bander. With this exhibit, the pharmaceutical machinery

manufacturer was demonstrating its expertise in the primary, secondary

and tertiary packaging of solid dosage forms.

Unity 600 blister packaging line

Powerful, sustainable and flexible – the double-lane, high-speed

Unity 600 blister packaging line by Romaco Noack packages a wide

variety of tablets and capsules with outstanding speed and reliability.

The product range of this monobloc extends from very small and

lightweight blisters to extremely large and heavy packs up to 145 mm

long and 90 mm wide. This blister line with rotary sealing and a continuous

motion cartoner achieves a maximum output of 600 blisters

and 350 cartons per minute. The packaging line has proven to be

exceptionally versatile in its processing of different types of packaging:

apart from producing standard PVC/aluminum or aluminum/

aluminum blisters, the technology is also suitable for handling climate-friendly

blister foils made of mono-materials such as PET and PP.

Dispensing with multilayer laminated blister foils not only reduces

the carbon footprint of each blister, but also makes it easier to sort

and recycle the discarded packs.

More sustainable

The sustainable system design of the Unity 600 cannot fail to impress:

the innovative transfer unit that conveys the die-cut blisters

to the cartoner has been engineered to operate without the need of

energy-intensive vacuum. Instead, after their removal from the blister

machine, the blisters are safely transported on a conveyor belt

and fed directly into the stack transfer unit, where they are securely

stacked from the bottom up. Moreover, this highly automated

transfer solution is capable of identifying any gaps in the process via

software and compensating for these directly. As a result, there is

PF 75 stretch bander

no longer any need to hold back good blisters for the stacking unit,

which in turn enables the tracking and tracing of blisters from the

point of product feed onward.

The bottom line is that the new Unity 600 achieves energy savings

of up to 45% compared to its predecessor. This is also thanks to

the installation of Venturi systems at points where vacuum is technically

necessary – for example during the pick-up of cartons and leaflets.

The comparatively small and low-maintenance Venturi pumps

emit significantly less heat than conventional vacuum pumps, considerably

cutting the amount of energy needed to air condition the

cleanrooms. In addition, the blister packaging line features an intelligent

standby function, which dramatically reduces the machine’s

base load without any negative effects on OEE (overall equipment

effectiveness). For sustainability reporting, the Unity 600 is also

equipped with an energy monitor, which measures the machine’s

electricity and air consumption as well as its CO2 emissions.

As a first, at interpack the Unity 600 will be exhibited in line with

the new PF 75 stretch bander.

PF 75 stretch bander

The new PF 75 stretch bander boasts an exceptionally compact

design with a very small footprint of approximately 2 m². This all-


Seite 54/67

Wide range of applications from one stop solution supplier Romaco.

ows the final packaging machine to be flexibly integrated into any

pharmaceutical and nutraceutical packaging line, even when space

is at a premium. The stretch bander is designed to handle up to 450

cartons at the infeed and is therefore compatible with the fastest

Romaco cartoner. For product changes, a single format part merely

needs to be replaced – no tools required. All other settings can be

entered conveniently on the HMI panel and easily adjusted on a few

machine components. The GMP-compliant machine design is clearly

laid out and easy to see into, shortening cleaning processes and

enabling rapid line clearance. Cartons are bundled to better organize

the retail units and to ensure greater stability during case packing.

This also increases storage capacity per pallet and ultimately reduces

transport costs. The launch of the PF 75 stretch bander marks a strategic

step in rounding out Romaco’s end-of-line packaging range.

Manufactured by Romaco’s long-standing technology partner, SPH

Group, the machine is a key component of the supplier’s packaging

lines. Thanks to the integration of this ergonomic, low-maintenance

technology, the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries benefit

from seamless end-to-end solutions from a single source – covering

the entire production chain.

PC 4350 continuous motion cartoner

The Romaco Promatic PC 4350 continuous motion cartoner was

developed as a secondary packaging unit for the Unity 600 blister

packaging line and meets all the requirements for integration in the

high-performance monobloc. It achieves a maximum output of 350

cartons per minute. Its positive carton opening system eradicates

any friction, enabling very gentle handling of packaging materials. In

addition, counter-vacuum is used to prevent unstable cartons from

collapsing again after they have been erected. In the PC 4350, the

stacks of blister packs are fed into the open cartons from the rear.

The entire insertion area is therefore easily viewable and accessible

– a major advantage for GMP-compliant cleaning and fast line

clearance. What’s more, for the first time the leaflet folding module

is positioned in the running direction and not on the front. This layout

ensures extremely short distances for transporting patient information

leaflets, further enhancing process reliability, performance

and efficiency. In case of a pre-folded leaflet feeding unit, a greater

magazine capacity can be granted, without compromising operator

ergonomics. Furthermore, the cartoner’s fail-safe design makes sure

that solely verified products are released for the next production

step. As well as blisters, the PC 4350 also packs plastic bottles, glass

vials, strips, tubes and numerous other products.

All from one source – one stop solutions by Romaco

In addition to its packaging technologies, one stop solutions

supplier Romaco will be presenting further innovations from its

processing portfolio at interpack. These include the fully automated

Tecpharm 400 tablet coater, which comes with a multitude of intelligent

features. Also on show for the first time is the KTS 840 tablet

press, which was specially engineered for compressing three-layer

tablets in the nutraceutical and food industries. Furthermore, Romaco

is showcasing its laboratory expertise with live demonstrations of

the VENTILUS® Lab fluid bed processor and the KTP 1X compaction

simulator.

Strong partnerships

Romaco joins forces with industry partners to reveal further insights

into its portfolio: the KTS 1000 high-speed press will be exhibited in

line with the BHS continuous wrapping machine from Theegarten-

PACTEC for tableting and packaging stock cubes. In the food and

confectionery sector, this technology is currently the best performer

in the market.

Span Inspection Systems demonstrates its latest camera control

system using the example of the universal, intermittent motion

N 760 blister packaging machine from Romaco. This inspection system

is used for quality control and reliably detects various parameters,

such as presence, color, shape, breakage, etc. of the tablets or

capsules during primary packaging.

Romaco Group

D 76227 Karlsruhe


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The C6 cleanroom energy chain with new e-spin guiding system enables abrasion-resistant

operation up to 30 meters and maintains ISO Class 1 of the Fraunhofer IPA

Highest purity over long distances with

a novel cleanroom energy management

solution from igus

Whether in microelectronics, semiconductor or battery manufacturing, it‘s all

about particle-free environments and maximum process safety. As automation

increases and plants grow larger, the routes for material transport also become

longer. A central challenge is to ensure a reliable supply of energy and data with

minimal particle emission. Busbars do not transmit data, and energy chains

usually require complex suction systems for microparticles. With the C6 energy

chain, certified by Fraunhofer IPA according to ISO Class 1, combined with the

new e-spin upper guide wheel, igus now offers a solution. The system enables a

compact and durable energy supply in cleanrooms – even over travel distances of

up to 30 meters.

In modern semiconductor factories, silicon

wafers undergo numerous process steps –

from lithography to etching to metallization.

Due to strict cleanliness and particle-free

requirements, manual transport within the

cleanroom is not practical. Instead, increasents

a challenge for designers: supplying

power and data to the OHT. “Busbars do not

transmit data and are maintenance-intensive.

Energy chains usually require a complex

suction device for particles. The need for a

cleanroom-compatible, durable, and costeffective

alternative is accordingly high,”

explains Kira Weller, product manager for e-

chains and cleanroom expert at igus.

Rolling instead of sliding with the new

e-spin guide system

The C6 energy chain in combination with the new e-spin upper guide wheel

enables reliable energy and data supply with minimal particle emission – and this

over travel distances of up to 30 meters. (Source: igus SE & Co. KG)

singly automated systems take over the safe

and efficient transport of wafer cassettes

over long distances. For example, via Overhead

Hoist Transport (OHT), a rail system

that moves the cassettes under the ceiling.

While this saves cleanroom space, it pre-

To solve this dilemma, igus developed a

special guide system called e-spin for the

C6 cleanroom energy chain. It consists of

guide wheels, which, like all igus energy

chains, are made from tribologically optimized

high-performance plastic, designed

to reduce friction and wear. The wheels are

positioned between the upper and lower run

of the energy chain. The chain parts roll on

each other instead of sliding – and this without

additional particle emission. “Thanks

to the e-spin system, the energy chains can

be used in production within a cleanroom

without an extraction unit,” says Kira Weller.

This reduces complexity and costs in the

design of transport system energy supply.

The energy chain system can be configured

quickly via the e-chain experts on the

igus website. At the same time, the system,

consisting of the C6 energy chain and guide

wheels made from high-performance plastic,

is abrasion-resistant, low-maintenance,

and particularly durable. Laboratory tests in

collaboration with Fraunhofer IPA confirm:

the system reaches the highest cleanroom

class ISO 1 at a speed of 0.5 m/s. igus aims

to push the technical limits further in the

future regarding higher speeds and longer

travel distances.

igus SE & Co. KG

D 51147 Köln


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For reliable material handovers in sensitive production environments

Fraunhofer IPA certifies cutting edge for

cleanroom conveyor belts from Montech

Montech AG brings its proven knife edge into the cleanroom: The product meets

the requirements of ISO 5 cleanroom class and has been tested and certified by

the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology and Automation IPA.

zes gaps and allows small transfer goods to

be safely transferred from one system to the

next. This increases process stability and

significantly reduces the risk of production

stoppages. Users thus receive a tested and

reliable solution for sensitive applications in

the cleanroom.

Fraunhofer TESTED DEVICE® certificate

The knife edge from Montech has been tested

under cleanroom conditions according

to ISO 14644-1; -14 by the Fraunhofer Institute

for Production Technology and Automation

IPA and awarded the TESTED DEVICE®

certificate. The certification confirms that

both the conveyor belt TB30R-140×1500/

MR 571854 with central drive and the conveyor

belt TB40R-400×1500-VR 571673

meet the particle emission requirements for

use in cleanrooms up to ISO 5 class. Companies

benefit from a reliable, tested solution

for critical transfer points as well as from

stable and standard-compliant production

processes.

Designed for regulated industries

In cleanroom environments, especially high

demands are placed on particle emissions

and process stability. At the same time,

transfer points are a critical area – particularly

with small or sensitive parts. Gaps

between sections can lead to disruptions,

jamming, or interruptions, thereby compromising

process safety.

Cleanroom conveyor

belt TB30R with center drive.

(Copyright: MONTECH AG)

Certified solution for critical transfer

points in the cleanroom

The knife edge from Montech is now qualified

for use in controlled production

environments. Its cleanroom suitability,

confirmed by the Fraunhofer Institute for

Production Technology and Automation

IPA, ensures that defined limits for particle

emissions are maintained. At the same time,

the knife edge impresses with its structural

properties: it provides a minimal gap between

two conveyor sections. This minimi-

The certified knife edge is particularly suitable

for applications in medical technology,

electronics manufacturing, or the pharmaceutical

industry, where cleanroom conditions

and stable processes are equally required.

It combines reliable conveying technology

with certified cleanroom suitability,

supporting compliant and efficient production

workflows. The knife edge is available

in Montech‘s online cleanroom configurator

and can be seamlessly integrated into existing

conveyor configurations.

Montech AG

Gewerbestrasse 12

CH 4552 Derendingen

Telefon: +41 326815500

eMail: info@montech.com

Internet: https://www.montech.com


Seite 57/67

Schütz Impeller: Contamination-free

homogenisation of viscous media in IBCs

Under the motto “Circular Economy meets Technology” at Interpack 2026, Schütz

will be showcasing solutions that combine circularity with technical performance

to deliver maximum efficiency in customers’ supply chains. A prime example of

this approach is the packaging specialist’s Impeller agitators, which mix viscous

products quickly and reliably direct in the IBC.

With viscous liquids, thorough mixing is

crucial for optimal processing. However, this

comes with significant challenges. When

the transport containers are opened, foreign

particles can enter and significantly compromise

product quality. Furthermore, cleaning

conventional stainless-steel agitators

is time-consuming and resource-intensive.

Schütz offers a more efficient solution: disposable

agitators that are inserted directly

into the IBC at the factory. Thanks to this

pre-installation, the container does not

need to be opened for the agitation process,

which eliminates the risk of contamination.

Schütz Impellers are available for all Ecobulk

volumes from 560 to 1250 litres and can be

easily connected to existing agitator drives.

To handle a variety of applications,

Schütz has developed two different profiles

for the Impeller. Both variants ensure that

the product quality of the tank contents remains

consistent, from filling to discharge,

as well as providing optimal, efficient homogenisation.

Blade or bucket agitator:

it depends on the speed

To cater for a range of applications, Schütz has developed two different profiles

for the Impeller. Both variants ensure consistent product quality of the tank contents,

from filling to dispensing, as well as optimal homogenisation. (Photo: Schütz)

To ensure optimal processing, viscous contents in IBCs are often homogenised

using agitators prior to processing. The two versions of the Schütz Impeller enable

contamination-free agitation directly within the closed IBC. (Photo: Schütz)

The Impeller with a bucket-type agitator is

designed for powerful, uniform mixing and

is particularly suitable for applications requiring

intensive homogenisation. The second

version, the Impeller with a blade agitator,

was developed using Computational

Fluid Dynamics (CFD) specifically for lowspeed

drives. The optimised wing profile

ensures the even distribution of pigments

and additives and enables the complete dissolution

of sediments even during slow agitation

as well as reducing material losses to

a minimum.

Both versions are made from 100% recycled

plastic and, after use, are returned together

with the IBC through the Schütz Ticket

Service and fully recycled. The Impellers

fit seamlessly into Schütz’s Circular-by-

Design approach. They form part of a closed

loop system that reduces waste, conserves

resources and, at the same time, contributes

to the recycling of used materials into highquality

recyclates.

At Interpack on Stand D22 and E34 in

Hall 10, Schütz will be presenting its solutions

for the increasing demands for sustainability,

global quality standards and efficient

process chains in industrial packaging.

SCHÜTZ GmbH & Co. KGaA

D 56242 Selters


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Even more versatile in use

New accessories

for modular cable

clamp MSMC

With the flexible cable clamp MSMC from icotek, cables,

pipes, and other cylindrical components can be easily,

quickly, and securely mounted. Different clamping ranges

can also be combined. New features such as elastic inserts

for vibration damping, strain relief systems, and certified

short-circuit resistance provide even more flexibility in use.

The MSMC impresses with its modular expandable structure and a

variable clamping range of up to 55 mm in diameter, depending on

the clamp size or type. Multiple cable clamps can be linked together

with connectors or stacked. The robust material combination of weather-resistant

polyamide and corrosion-protected steel screws ensures

a long service life. MSMC is suitable for large cable diameters

and rigid cables with large bending radii, offering a secure solution

for versatile applications.

Flexible, secure, and gentle cable management

With the new accessories, vibration damping and strain relief can be

further improved, and heavy cables can be securely guided. Elastic

inserts enhance vibration and oscillation damping, increase friction

on smooth pipes, compensate for temperature-induced diameter

changes, and enable gentler clamping of sensitive cables. The strain

relief system allows large and heavy cables in control cabinets to be

reliably fixed, especially in combination with the cable entry KEL-

DPF 50. MSMC cable clamps can also be used as hose holders for

CONFiX corrugated hoses from NW 8.5 to NW 50. They guide and

position the hoses securely, prevent falling out, for example during

overhead installation, and enable flexible mounting options such as

lining up, stacking, or fastening on C-channels.

The new certification of short-circuit resistance according to

IEC 61914 also provides a reliable basis for decision-making regarding

the compliant and safe use of MSMC in demanding applications.

icotek GmbH

The modular stackable cable clamp MSMC from icotek

enables quick and secure cable fastening for variable cable

diameters up to 55 mm – new features such as vibration

damping and short-circuit resistance provide even more flexibility.

(Image: icotek GmbH & Co. KG)

D 73569 Eschach

A new boost for automation – GEMÜ

Q50 eSyStep now also available for

tube sizes of up to 1” inside diameter

GEMÜ is consistently driving forward with automation and electrification of

biopharmaceutical processes: With immediate effect, the motorized pinch valve

GEMÜ Q50 eSyStep is also available for tube sizes of up to 1” inside diameter.

With this new actuator size, GEMÜ is specifically expanding its product range

and, for the first time, enabling the automated control of all tube sizes covered by

GEMÜ pinch valves.

Maximum flexibility for all tube sizes

The new actuator size 1 enables the use of

tubes with an outside diameter of up to 1 1/2”

(38.1 mm) and inside diameters of up to 1”

(25.4 mm). This means that GEMÜ’s actuators

Q50 eSyStep cover the entire range for

which GEMÜ offers pinch valves. For customers,

this means maximum choice and flexibility

in process automation.

Automation and future-proofing

in the spotlight

The ongoing electrification of Single-Use

processes is a decisive factor in ensuring

competitive, cost-effective and future-proof

production. With the GEMÜ Q50 eSyStep,

GEMÜ is offering a modern solution for the

automated control and monitoring of the

most varied media. Features such as the IO-

GEMÜ Q50 eSyStep

Link connection system, end position programming,

tool-free tube replacement and

integrated position indicator facilitate smart

integration into existing and new plants.


D 74635 Kupferzell


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More flexibility with compact tool changers for demanding automation processes

Series WPR5000 expanded with new sizes

The Zimmer Group is expanding its proven

tool changer series WPR5000 with the additional

size WPR5031. With a circle of 31.5

according to EN ISO 9409-1, this particularly

compact variant is now available. This

responds specifically to the increasing demand

for smaller, high-performance solutions

for flexible automation environments.

Downtimes and long tool change times

often cost valuable resources. In many automated

processes, time-consuming or imprecise

tool changes lead to stoppages and

inefficient workflows – especially when flexibility

and speed are crucial. The WPR5000

series tool changers provide a solution here,

enabling automated change processes with

high repeat accuracy and short cycle times.

The new size WPR5031 complements

the portfolio with a compact solution without

compromising performance and safety.

Overall, the series now includes eight sizes

ranging from circle of 31.5 to 160, covering a

broad spectrum of applications – from small

handling tasks to applications with payloads

over 500 kg.

A key feature of the WPR5000 series is

the innovative bolt locking system. The line

contact allows the absorption of high forces

and moments while ensuring maximum stability.

This is complemented by a spring-loaded,

self-locking mechanism and optionally

integrated sensors that meet the highest sa-

fety requirements – ideal for machines and

systems where performance level d / control

category 3 is required.

Furthermore, the series offers the highest

variety of options for energy transfer.

Different energy elements enable the integration

of pneumatics, hydraulics, electrical

signals, load currents, and communication

interfaces into a single system. The standard

IP54 corrosion protection and maintenance-free

operation of up to five million cycles

emphasize its high reliability in industrial

use.

With the expansion of the WPR5000

series, the Zimmer Group strengthens its

position as a provider of high-performance

components for robotics and automation.

Users benefit from increased flexibility, reduced

downtime, and sustainably optimized

production processes.

Zimmer GmbH

D 77866 Rheinau

Efficient ultrasound solutions

for plastics processing at KUTENO 2026

At this year‘s KUTENO in

Bad Salzuflen, RINCO UL-

TRASONICS will present

practical solutions for ultrasonic

welding of plastics from

June 9 to 11, 2026. The focus is

on precise and efficient applications

for various industrial

requirements.

Electrical Motion2-35 - Precise and versatile

Ultraschall-Handschweisspistole HG35 mit Generator Ecoline.

(Quelle: RINCO ULTRASONICS)

The Electrical Motion2-35 introduces an ultrasonic welding machine

that impresses with precise and reliable results.

The electric drive ensures consistently high quality and operates

in a particularly energy-efficient manner, with up to 78% lower energy

consumption compared to pneumatic systems.

The ultrasonic welding machine is also suitable for use in cleanrooms

of ISO Class 6. A multi-level user management system and a

non-deletable audit trail ensure complete traceability and maintain

consistent quality. Its compact design allows versatile use in various

applications.

Hand Device HG35

- Ergonomic and powerful

The ultrasonic hand device HG35

offers a flexible solution for manual

applications. Its lightweight and

well-balanced design enable comfortable

and fatigue-free handling

in daily production. A precise trigger point and integrated work light

support accurate and clean work. The HG35 is suitable for applications

such as spot welding, riveting, or cutting thermoplastics and

textiles.

Stronger together. RINCO ULTRASONICS and KLN

As part of the Crest Group, RINCO ULTRASONICS is represented at

KUTENO together with its sister company KLN Ultraschall. Visitors

gain a comprehensive insight into the entire spectrum of ultrasonic

technology, from plastic processing to industrial cleaning solutions

and customized system solutions.

RINCO ULTRASONICS AG

CH 8590 Romanshorn 1


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Stable conditions, smart control: POL-EKO climate chambers

Precise climate testing with POL-EKO

CiK Solutions GmbH is a leading provider

of solutions for environmental and climate

simulation, monitoring, and calibration. The

company supports customers from industry,

pharmaceuticals, and research with highquality

products and customized solutions

for demanding applications and is now including

the powerful climate chambers from

POL-EKO in its range.

The POL-EKO climate chambers enable

near-free simulation of temperature and

humidity conditions and are specifically

designed for demanding applications in research,

development, and industry. They are

particularly suitable for aging, stability, and

climatic tests where reproducible and stable

conditions are crucial.

Depending on the model, the devices cover

temperature ranges from 0 to +60 °C or 0 to

+100 °C, as well as humidity ranges from 10

to 90% relative humidity, offering high flexibility

for various testing requirements.

Especially the intelligent control architecture,

consisting of precise control technology

and modern, user-friendly operation, significantly

simplifies laboratory work while ensuring

maximum process safety.

The integrated SMART PRO control system

with a 7-inch touchscreen allows for precise

parameter setting, programming of complex

test cycles, and convenient remote monitoring

via WLAN, LAN, or USB.

In addition to technical performance, the

devices impress with their high-quality

craftsmanship made from acid-resistant

stainless steel, ensuring durability and easy

cleaning. Features such as automatic defrosting

of the cooling system, double doors

with safety locks, and transport rollers for

easy relocation make the devices particularly

practical for everyday use.

CiK Solutions GmbH

D 76131 Karlsruhe

Stainless steel stack containers with internal ball valve

More protection when handling

The Mohn GmbH has been specializing for decades in stainless steel solutions for hygienically demanding production areas.

With the stackable stainless steel container, the company demonstrates that development expertise is not only present in

complex systems but also in practical container solutions in detail.

The container is designed for daily use in production environments where stability, ease of

cleaning, and safe handling are important. Two longitudinal skids with a central support ensure

a stable stand. The undercarriage height of approximately 125 mm facilitates lifting and

repositioning with suitable lifting and transport equipment. Hygienic stacking corners support

space-saving stacking and transportation, making it suitable for sensitive areas.

A key detail is located in the outlet area: The end-side ball valve is offset 190 mm inward

and thus protected within the outer contour. This reduces the risk of damage during transport,

maneuvering, or stacking. At the same time, the valve is better protected against accidental

impact.

With a container wall thickness of 2 mm, a load capacity of approximately 1,000 kg, and

external dimensions of approximately W 1213 x D 1012 x H 827 mm, the stainless steel stackable

container offers a durable solution for hygienically sensitive work areas in the food

industry.

MOHN GmbH

D 58540 Meinerzhagen


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Optical wafer-level characterization of MEMS dynamics

with automatic wafer map processing, recipe control,

and cleanroom integration into fab-controlled workflows.

Fully automated MEMS vibration

analysis in cleanroom: Polytec Micro

System Analyzer now with ISO-3

certification and script automation

With the Micro System Analyzers (MSA-600, MSA-650 IRIS, MSA-

100-3D), Polytec has been addressing contactless characterization

of MEMS dynamics and topography for years – from individual dies

to wafer-level testing on probe stations. The current expansion combines

this optical measurement technology with a certified cleanroom

configuration and new automation functions, enabling fully

automatic processing of complete wafer maps in externally controlled

lab and fab workflows.

Technical innovations for a broader range of applications

- Cleanroom-certified configuration: MSA Micro System Analyzers

are available in an ISO 3 cleanroom-certified version, making

them suitable for demanding front-end processes.

- Automated wafer map measurement: The goal is fully automatic

measurement and evaluation of all devices on a wafer, including

resonance frequencies, quality factors, and mode shapes for each

component.

- Script and recipe control: In the Polytec PSV software, recipes for

automated measurement sequences at the individual die level can

be defined, which can be scaled to entire wafer maps via scripts

and external controls.

- Integration into fab workflows: Network-based remote control

enables integration into fab-managed workflows, e.g., via a PLC/

SPS of the production line.

- The setup time, including wafer alignment and script configuration,

typically takes only about 20 minutes for new devices or

wafers.

- Automated grid alignment via image processing and autofocus

ensure precisely reproducible measurement conditions and

accurate results for each die and all wafers.

Application context: wafer-level testing of MEMS

The established approach for characterizing the dynamics of MEMS

components at the wafer level uses a microscope-based scanning

laser Doppler vibrometer system on a (semi-)automatic probe station

to contactlessly capture resonances, mode shapes, and process

variations. The automated sequence of coarse positioning, focusing,

contour recognition, frequency sweep, and mode shape scan can

now be implemented as a fully script- and recipe-based measurement

cycle for each position on the wafer map with the new MSA

automation functions.

Example of an automated workflow

(Copyright: Polytec GmbH)

- Transfer of a wafer map (coordinates/devices) from

the fab database.

- Automatic XYZ positioning on the next die, autofocus,

and grid alignment via image processing.

- Fast single-point measurement for resonance search,

followed by fine frequency sweep and optional surface scan

of the mode shape.

- Feedback of measurement data for pass/fail classification

to the fab MES/PLC system and statistical analysis across

the entire wafer.


Seite 62/67

Increased productivity in MEMS development

and manufacturing

- Higher throughput: Fully automated measurement sequences

reduce cycle time per die to seconds and enable 100% testing

in series production.

- Early rejection of defective devices: Wafer-level tests sort out

defective structures before dicing, reducing unit costs and scrap.

- Better model and process control: Denser data sets on resonance

frequencies and mode shapes improve correlation with FEM

models and process drift monitoring (with special test structures).

- Reliable cleanroom integration: The ISO 3-certified version of

the MSA systems facilitates qualification in regulated production

environments and reduces validation effort.

About the Micro System Analyzer

The Polytec Micro System Analyzers are optical measurement platforms

for static and dynamic 3D characterization of MEMS and

microstructures – from laboratory setups to integrated wafer-level

measurements on probe stations. They combine laser Doppler

vibrometry with high-resolution microscope optics and support

frequencies from DC into the MHz or GHz range, including in-plane

and out-of-plane vibrations as well as IR transmission measurements

on encapsulated structures.

POLYTEC GmbH

D 76337 Waldbronn

SLAS Europe 2026: Analytik Jena

introduces the digital and contactless

dispenser series PULSEspencer

At this year‘s SLAS Europe in Vienna (May 19–21), Analytik

Jena presented the new PULSEspencer series. The world’s

leading provider of analytical measurement technology and

automation solutions is expanding its proven liquid handling

portfolio with the new, digital, contactless dispenser

series, enabling sample preparation of even the smallest

volumes. This stands for precise, contactless operation and

sets new standards in modern research.

With the new PULSEspencer series, Analytik Jena introduces an

innovative solution for the precise dispensing of reagents and cells.

The systems operate with disposable cassettes and are based on

three core functions: miniaturization, direct dilution, and rapid volume

distribution. These form the foundation for more efficient and

intelligent workflows in daily laboratory work. The devices of the

PULSEspencer series are versatile and cover a wide range of demanding

applications – from genomics and proteomics to biochemical

and cell-based assays, as well as enzyme profiling and secondary

screening.

The PULSEspencer R enables highly precise, contactless reagent

dispensing, supporting the miniaturization of assays and their

rapid optimization. It is particularly suitable for applications in drug

research and high-throughput screening. The PULSEspencer RC

extends the portfolio with controlled and reproducible workflows,

simplifying assays and efficiently supporting single-cell omics applications.

Features at a glance:

– Simplified workflows by eliminating manual pipetting steps

and dilution series, along with automated normalization

– True assay miniaturization with high accuracy and reduced

reagent consumption

– Contactless dispensing from 8 pL for maximum precision and

minimal contamination risk, up to single-cell omics applications

– Intelligent software assistants for guided assay creation and

automatic layout optimization

– Compact, modular design for flexible integration into

existing workflows

Analytik Jena GmbH+Co. KG

D 07745 Jena


Seite 63/67

Robust RFID labels meet precise labeling technology

The HERMA 132M HC labeling machine enables precise

and process-safe application of the robust

RFID labels from Schreiner MediPharm,

even at high cycle rates.

Process-safe RFID labeling

for vials by Schreiner MediPharm

and HERMA at interpack

Schreiner MediPharm, a leading developer and manufacturer

of innovative functional labels for the healthcare industry,

and HERMA, an expert in labeling machines, are

combining their expertise for an integrated RFID labeling

solution. The combination of particularly robust RFID labels

and precise labeling technology enables high process

stability and reliable results even in high-speed applications

in the pharmaceutical industry. At interpack in Düsseldorf,

the joint solution for vial labeling was presented live

for the first time.

The robust RFID label from Schreiner MediPharm

reliably protects the integrated chip from mechanical stress

and ensures long-term secure functionality.

RFID and NFC technologies are increasingly gaining importance

in the pharmaceutical industry, for example for automated medication

management, traceability, tamper evidence, and digitalization

of processes. At the same time, there are high requirements for the

mechanical durability of the integrated chips and protection against

chip breakage, as well as precision and stability in the labeling process.

Against this background, Schreiner MediPharm and HERMA

have developed a coordinated overall solution that specifically addresses

these challenges.

The robust RFID labels from Schreiner MediPharm feature a

special design: thanks to a special construction to protect the integrated

RFID chip, they are characterized by very high resistance to

mechanical stresses and impacts. The robust RFID labels are suitable

for containers with tight radii, such as vials or syringes, and enable

trouble-free application in pharmaceutical manufacturing. The

RFID functionality remains guaranteed from production to end-use,

and the RFID label can be reliably read at any time.

In combination with HERMA‘s process-optimized labeling

technology, which is specifically designed to conserve materials, a

system is created that allows reliable RFID integration even in demanding

applications and at high speeds. Tests on the HERMA

132M HC round-labeling machine, developed for the pharmaceutical

industry, show that the breakage rate of RFID chips integrated

into the label is practically zero, while traditional standard labels can

experience significantly higher failure rates.

Schreiner MediPharm

D 85764 Oberschleißheim


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Events in June 2026

For more information or to register, simply click on the event

09.06.2026 - 10.06.2026 Seminar Life Science Ready Days 2026

Veranstaltungsort: Karlsruhe, Veranstalter: Systec & Solutions GmbH

09.06.2026 - 10.06.2026 Seminar Fachgerechte Verlegung von nora Kautschukböden: Unterboden bei

Wandbelägen & Abdichtung von Nassbereichen

Veranstaltungsort: Weinheim, Veranstalter: nora systems GmbH

10.06.2026 - 11.06.2026 Seminar Bestimmung von Messunsicherheiten nach GUM

Veranstaltungsort: Hamburg, Veranstalter: Testo Industrial Services GmbH

10.06.2026 - 11.06.2026 Training & Schulung GMP-Reinraumschulung für aseptische Bereiche

Veranstaltungsort: Osnabrück, Veranstalter: Piepenbrock Dienstleistungen GmbH + Co. KG

11.06.2026 - 12.06.2026 Seminar Environmental Monitoring - Compliant and Reasonable

Veranstaltungsort: Kopenhagen, Veranstalter: CONCEPT HEIDELBERG GmbH

11.06.2026 Seminar Hygiene

Veranstaltungsort: Affoltern am Albis, Veranstalter: PTS Training Service

15.06.2026 - 19.06.2026 Seminar Kalibriertage Thermodynamik: Prüfmittelmanagement und Kalibriertraining

Veranstaltungsort: Kirchzarten bei Freiburg, Veranstalter: Testo Industrial Services GmbH

16.06.2026 - 18.06.2026 Webinar GMPs for Equipment, Utilities and Facilities - Live Online Training

Veranstaltungsort: online, Veranstalter: CONCEPT HEIDELBERG GmbH

16.06.2026 - 17.06.2026 Seminar Klinische Prüfung mit Prüfpräparaten: GMP / GDP bei der Herstellung und Logistik

Veranstaltungsort: Alzenau/Digital, Veranstalter: PTS Training Service

17.06.2026 Seminar Aktualisierung und Auffrischung für Reinraum-Servicetechniker/-innen Neues

in der Mess- und Gentechnik, GMP & Co.

Veranstaltungsort: Krefeld, Veranstalter: IHK Mittlerer Niederrhein

17.06.2026 - 19.06.2026 Seminar Validierungsbeauftragte/r in der pharmazeutischen Industrie (QV 16)

Veranstaltungsort: Hamburg, Veranstalter: CONCEPT HEIDELBERG GmbH

17.06.2026 - 17.06.2026 Webinar PUPSIT - Erwartung & Umsetzung - Live Online Seminar


18.06.2026 Seminar GCP ICH E6 R3 und EMA Guidelines - Computersystemvalidierung und Datenintegrität

Veranstaltungsort: Siegburg, Veranstalter: PTS Training Service

23.06.2026 - 25.06.2026 Seminar Pharma-Ingenieur/in (PT 25) - Block II

Veranstaltungsort: Hamburg, Veranstalter: CONCEPT HEIDELBERG GmbH

23.06.2026 Seminar Räume, Luft und Technik: Gestaltung und Qualifizierung von Räumen

Veranstaltungsort: Online, Veranstalter: PTS Training Service

24.06.2026 Seminar Räume, Luft und Technik: Lüftungsanlagen


25.06.2026 Seminar Schleusenkonzepte im Reinraum: GMP-Praxis erleben mit 3D-Simulation


25.06.2026 Seminar Räume, Luft und Technik: Messtechnik, Umsetzung gemäß Annex 1 neu und DIN ISO 14644


25.06.2026 - 26.06.2026 Tagung 34. Fachtagung „Industrielle Bauteilreinigung“

Veranstaltungsort: Esslingen, Veranstalter: Fachverband industrielle Teilereinigung (FiT) e.v.

30.06.2026 - 01.07.2026 Webinar Annex 1 Intensive Training Course - Live Online Training



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Events in July 2026


16.07.2026 Seminar Hygiene

Veranstaltungsort: Affoltern am Albis, Veranstalter: PTS Training Service

Events in August 2026


25.08.2026 Seminar Reinraum Praxisseminar inkl. Workshops

Veranstaltungsort: Rheinfelden (CH), Veranstalter: Swiss Cleanroom Concept GmbH

26.08.2026 Seminar Qualifizierung von Anlagen und Utilities

Veranstaltungsort: Rheinfelden (CH),Veranstalter: Swiss Cleanroom Concept GmbH

27.08.2026 Seminar Kontaminationskontrollstrategie sinnvoll umsetzen

Veranstaltungsort: Rheinfelden (CH), Veranstalter: Swiss Cleanroom Concept GmbH

Impressum:

W.A. Schuster GmbH / reinraum online · Mozartstraße 45 · D 70180 Stuttgart · Tel. +49 711-9640350 · Fax 9640366

info@reinraum.de · www.reinraum.de · GF Dipl.-Designer Reinhold Schuster · Stgt, HRB 14111 · USt.-IdNr. DE 147811997

Originaltexte und Bilder:

Die namentlich gekennzeichneten Beiträge stehen in der Verantwortung des jeweiligen Autors. Nachdruck, auch auszugsweise, nur mit Genehmigung

der Redaktion und mit Quellenangabe gestattet. Für unaufgefordert eingesandte Manuskripte und Abbildungen übernimmt der Herausgeber keine

Haftung. Dem Herausgeber ist das ausschließliche, räumliche, zeitliche und inhaltlich eingeschränkte Recht eingeräumt, den Beitrag in unveränderter

oder bearbeiteter Form für alle Zwecke beliebig oft zu nutzen oder Dritten zur Nutzung zu übertragen. Dieses Nutzungsrecht bezieht sich auf Print- und

elektrische Medien (Internet, Datenbanken, Datenträger aller Art).


Seite 67/67

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