Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1331851
Tablets & Capsules January/February 2021 15 unit that allows you to set parameters for automatic oper- ation will be useful. Containment. Some formulations, such as those containing highly potent compounds, may require wash- in-place (WIP) cleaning and/or an isolator for controlling the formulation's exposure to humidity or oxygen. WIP capsule fillers are typically installed inside an isolator, so it is very important to plan ahead. Start with a stainless- steel WIP capsule filler, then consider which processes or modules may be needed in the future. If possible, the capsule filler supplier should also supply the isolator or at least be consulted about the isolator design. Adding modules for different processes may require features to be incorporated into the isola- tor design, such as exterior controls to operate the unit with the needed modules. If the isolator is not designed to accept these future modules, you may find it very difficult to add them later. While the capsule filler may have the capability to add modules, it may be challeng- ing to communicate functions from the module to the capsule filler for variables such as indexing the capsules to feed a fixed number of tablets into each capsule. The capsule filler rotation must wait for the tablets to be filled at each station before rotating. This can become even more complicated if the requirement is to fill, for example, three different minitablets into each capsule at different quantities. Double-sided operation. Another variation on the standard design is a double-sided unit to allow two powder feeders or dosators in combination with other modules. This design can be useful for filling capsules with multiple formulations as well as to increase capacity. Maintenance and utilities. Proper maintenance is necessary to keep the unit performing properly and accurately. When selecting an equipment supplier, be sure to consider ongoing service and support as well as the availability of change kits and parts. Required utilities include compressed air and electric- ity. Also, if you will be encapsulating dusty formulations, an external dust collection system similar to the type used in tablet presses is recommended. Such a system will require regular filter changes to avoid problems. Room air conditions are also important to avoid sticking. Low humidity is recommended. Finally, a portable storage cart will keep the unit at a comfortable working height and allow you to easily move it between rooms. The cart can also provide convenient storage for change kits, so they are not misplaced. T&C Barry Fox is president of Mendel Company (973 599 1300, www.mendelco.com). He received a BS degree in chemical engi- neering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY. Mendel Company supplies processing and packaging equip- ment, including Dott. Bonapace In-Cap capsule fillers, to the pharmaceutical industry. Photo 4: A pellet feeder module should be flexible enough to accurately fill a range of pellet volumes for different capsule sizes. Photo 5: A module for liquid filling should include a jacketed vessel with a mixer to keep the fill in a liquid state with solids in suspension.