Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1371139
Tablets & Capsules May/June 2021 39 Find the flow One of IFF's proprietary blends of HPMC (Methocel DC2) possesses a morphology specifically designed for improved powder flow, making it ideal for smooth and uninterrupted feeding and blending. Inconsistent feeding of excipients into the CM process can result in inconsistent per- formance, such as variations in tablet weight and content. Morphology ultimately impacts how a given tablet compacts downstream, so finding the best balance of morphology, flow, and hardness is paramount. Feeding and blending As mentioned, continuous man- ufacturing requires excipients that offer good flow properties and robust, reliable functionality across process steps. IFF researchers have found that a specialized morphology of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) can address the first neces- sity, while a lubricant made from sodium stearyl fumarate (SSF) that allows for one-step mixing can main- tain high tablet tensile strength across a range of intense mixing conditions, simplifying the overall blending process. exit the feeder and enter the system in a consistent manner. The down- stream processing may be hindered if constant flow cannot be achieved through the hopper. After feeding and blending have occurred, ingredients go through two more stages: granulation and milling followed by tableting and coating. At both points in the process, factors such as morphology and static behav- ior become more important. The shift in priorities that occurs during the CM process underscores the impor- tance of making sure a formulation comprises flexible, multi-functional excipients that excel throughout the entire CM process. Excipients that are designed to address the unique challenges at all three stages of a CM process can increase speed to mar- ket and enhance quality. Let's review excipients that perform well during a continuous process. Number produced Number rejected due to weight Failure rate (%) DC2 152,000 171 0.113 CR 122,000 627 0.514 Table 1 Failure rate in minitablet production sotax.com/xtend Solutions for Pharmaceutical Testing Ready for tomorrow. Today. Respond flexibly to changing workloads and simplify method transfer with the Xtend ™ Dissolution Line. Standardized modules such as dissolution bath, pump, and sample manager can be flexibly combined or extended anytime – from manual to semi- and fully automated systems. Ready for tomorrow. Today. Respond flexibly to changing workloads and simplify method transfer Modular. Scalable. Future-proof. Xtend ™