[Pennsylvania, July 2025] — As pharmaceutical manufacturers face rising costs and growing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices, many are turning to an often-overlooked solution: refurbishing and upgrading existing isolators. This strategic approach offers significant benefits over purchasing new equipment—without compromising on performance or compliance.

Esco’s “SecondCycle™ Services” allows companies to extend the lifespan of high-value assets, significantly reducing capital expenditure. Upgraded isolators can meet or exceed current regulatory and GMP standards, incorporating modern technologies such as improved airflow systems, integrated automation, and enhanced user interfaces. It’s not uncommon to repurpose an existing isolator to accommodate a new process while saving as much as 50% of the cost of a new system. A recent project case study can be found here.

“Refurbishing isn’t just a smart financial choice—it’s a commitment to sustainability,” said David Mitchell, Global Head of Healthcare at Esco Life Sciences. “There’s a clear shift toward solutions that reduce waste, shorten lead times, and extend the life of existing infrastructure. SecondCycle is a powerful addition to Esco’s FAST. RELIABLE. INNOVATIVE. lineup—delivering value with responsibility.”

Additional benefits include:

• Faster turnaround compared to new equipment procurement.

• Customization options to match evolving process requirements.

• Reduced validation burden, as existing systems are already integrated into facility workflows.

As the industry continues to evolve, refurbished isolators offer a practical and forward-thinking solution for manufacturers looking to improve performance and sustainability without incurring the cost and disruption of full equipment replacement. For a case study, visit Esco Pharma's website here.

Contact:
David Mitchell
Head of Healthcare BU
Esco Lifesciences Group
[email protected]