The new container will use KryoTrans’ phase-change control technology that ensures 120-hour stability compliance across specified temperatures ranging from -5ºC to 30ºC.
The unique aspect of KT1500 is that it is being designed to accept both European and US standard pallets loaded up to a height of one meter which, according to KryoTrans, will significantly reduce shipping costs.
“At present, there is no reusable, passive temperature-controlled container on the market that can accept pallets.”
The firm also suggested the containers will help contract research organisations (CRO) “meet the increasing demands placed on them for temperature-controlled distribution by the trend towards globalised clinical trials.”
This is particularly true for the shipment and distributing biologic drugs that are more sensitive to temperature fluctuations during transport than “traditional” small-molecule pharmaceuticals.
New USA TSA screening laws
KryoTrans’ new container, and specifically its ability to house pallets, may also benefit from demand resulting from new laws introduced by the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The new airport security rules, which come into effect on August 1, require that each unit in a particular pallet or shipment taking off in the US must be screened.
The KT1500 units are likely to be in demand among drug manufacturers approved to carry out screening at productions sites as a way of streamlining the handling process.
Development grant
Development of KT5100, which will be launched later this year, is being part funded by a £250,000 grant from the Welsh Assembly which, according to KryoTrans CEO Chris Pollard, further validates the firm’s technology.
“The awarding of the grant by the Welsh Assembly Government towards the development of the KT1500 recognises the potential for this new container to transform the way temperature-sensitive biopharmaceuticals are transported.”