The trigger for switching to a new feeding technology was the requirement to feed sensitive products reliably, cleanly, and with low noise – a challenge with previous solutions based on vibration technology.

With the ZEE, Hermes deliberately opted for a non-vibratory alternative based on conveyor belt technology. The advantages:

• Gentle handling for sensitive products

• Easy cleaning – a key criterion in the pharmaceutical sector

• Fast format change for different sizes and shapes of feeding elements

• Low maintenance effort and high reliability in continuous operation

In Hermes Pharma’s production, the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene apply. The ZEE step feeder meets these reliably thanks to its closed and easy-to-clean design. By avoiding open grooves or undercuts, the system can be cleaned particularly easily – ideal for GMP-regulated environments.

At the same time, the conveyor belt technology ensures gentle handling and low-particle movement of the components. This makes the ZEE ideally suited for sensitive production lines with increased requirements for hygiene and maintenance efficiency.

Advantages of conveyor belt technology for sensitive applications:

• Compliance with pharmaceutical cleanliness standards through low-particle operation

• Fast, tool-free cleaning for shorter downtime

• Compact design

• Ideal for controlled cleanroom or hygienic conditions

Speed and reliability are key factors in pharmaceutical mass production. With the ZEE, continuous feeding of elements at high output rates is ensured. In the event of a blockage, the system automatically detects the malfunction: the conveyor belt reverses independently, returns the elements to the hopper, and the cycle restarts. This self-clearing function significantly reduces downtime and ensures stable, efficient line supply – even in three-shift operation.

Advantages of the high-performance feeding solution with automatic self-clearing:

• High cycle rates with consistent process quality

• High line availability

• Automatic return and restart without operator intervention

• Process reliability in continuous operation

At Hermes, different product formats must be processed regularly – fast changeovers are part of daily operations. The solution used from WEBER enables a type change directly via the control system, without mechanical adjustments to the sorting unit or deflectors. Customized programs ensure smooth changeovers and minimize downtime during ongoing production.

Thanks to its modular design and integrated vision sensors, the ZEE is prepared for changing requirements – even with frequently changing production orders or packaging formats.

Advantages of the flexible control technology:

• Format change without tools or modifications

• Short changeover times increase line availability

• User-friendly control system with stored product types

In Hermes’ highly automated production, all components must be correctly aligned and free of damage – even before the actual packaging process. The feeding system used from WEBER supports this requirement through an integrated vision solution.

A photoelectric sensor detects the position of each component. A camera then checks its orientation and condition. Damaged or incorrectly fed parts – for example due to batches not fully emptied – are reliably detected and automatically rejected. This ensures consistently high product quality across all lines.

Advantages of vision sensor technology:

• Scrap reduction through early error detection

• Ensuring the feeding of type-pure elements during frequent batch changes

• Process documentation for quality assurance and traceability of elements

The collaboration between Hermes and WEBER was characterized by transparency and teamwork. From planning to manufacturing and commissioning, Hermes was closely involved in all project phases. Regular coordination and transparent communication – including photographic documentation of production progress – resulted in a smooth and on-schedule integration of the system.

Already on the first day after commissioning, the system ran smoothly in daily production. Beyond that, WEBER continues to support Hermes Pharma with technical assistance and service, and will further contribute to the efficient design of feeding processes and the automation of production workflows. Following the successful use of the ZEE feeding system, additional applications are already being planned at Hermes.