Despite the growth and influence of emerging countries around the world, the United States holds a dominant share of the pharmaceutical market globally. This country is home to some of the most significant and successful pharma companies, and American consumers have access to the most advanced pharmaceutical products available. Pharmaceutical tanks play a critical role in the production and proper storage of the pharmaceutical products that Americans rely on every day. As the purity of pharmaceutical products is incredibly important, these specialized tanks are designed and fabricated specifically and meticulously to adhere to strict industry standards.
Top Pharmaceutical Statistics in 2023
As of 2023, here are some of the most compelling statistics surrounding the pharmaceutical industry.
The U.S. pharmaceutical industry generates approximately $550 billion in revenue annually.
Americans spend approximately $576.9 billion on medicine annually.
There are more than 310,574 pharmacists currently employed in the United States.
The U.S. pharmaceutical industry employs over 1.3 million people.
The United States accounts for 40% of global R&D for pharmaceuticals.
The U.S. is the world’s largest exporter of pharmaceutical drugs, accounting for 45% of global sales.
By the Numbers: There are over 5,000 pharmaceutical companies based in the United States and over 40,000 FDA-approved drugs on the market. Each drug must be manufactured in a safe, sterile, and compliant environment with specialized equipment fabricated for its specific application. Pharmaceutical tanks are critical pieces of equipment in the manufacturing process. Let’s take a closer look at how these tanks are made.
The Making of Pharmaceutical Tanks
Material Selection: Pharmaceutical tanks are usually made from high-quality stainless steel, which is chosen for its exceptional corrosion resistance, ease of maintenance and cleaning, and durability. The stainless steel utilized for pharmaceutical tanks must adhere to ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) standards for tanks and pressure vessels.
Engineering and Design: Engineering experts with specialized experience work together with pharmaceutical manufacturers to develop and design tanks that meet specific requirements. Pharmaceutical tanks are often customized based on variables such as capacity, intended use, and necessary sanitary considerations.
Fabrication Process: The fabrication process includes welding, grinding, and electropolishing. Welding is performed by skilled craftsmen who join stainless steel components, ensuring the result is smooth, defect-free, and meets sanitary standards. After the welding process, surfaces are ground to remove imperfections and deliver a smooth surface. Electropolishing is then performed in order to improve the stainless steel’s corrosion resistance and fortify its clean, smooth surface.
Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT): Tanks endure rigorous testing to verify and guarantee safety, performance, and compliance. Quality control measures and inspections are employed at various stages to ensure that the tank meets all requirements.
Types of Pharmaceutical Tanks
There are several types of tanks utilized in the pharmaceutical industry, including: Process Vessels: These tanks are utilized for several diverse pharmaceutical processes, including mixing, reaction, and purification. Water-for-Injection (WFI) Storage Tanks: These specialized tanks are used to store and deliver the purified water required for pharmaceutical production. Portable Vessels: These tanks are designed for ease of transport within the facility and to provide flexible utility depending on need. Pure Steam Equipment: These pharmaceutical tanks are used to produce ultra-pure steam for sterilization applications. Did You Know? To ensure compliance with ASME standards, tanks are fabricated under strict rules and guidelines, ensuring that the tanks maintain the most stringent hygiene standards.
Call Zwirner for Quality Refabricated Tanks
Pharmaceutical tanks are carefully and professionally crafted to ensure product quality, safety, and compliance. When your company chooses to purchase used stainless steel tanks and equipment from Zwirner Equipment Company, you can be assured that we employ and adhere to the same design, material, and fabrication processes needed to meet the unique requirements of the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry – while potentially saving your company a significant amount of money. Call us today to learn more, or browse our current inventory here. Remember, if you don’t see a specific piece of used steel equipment, call Zwirner. We can help you to source the equipment you need.
