40 April 2017 Tablets & Capsules
cylindrical probe 12.7 millimeters in diameter with a
sharp edge. (The European method specified a probe
with a small radius instead of a sharp edge.)
This method can also be used with other capsule shell
materials, such as HPMC. When testing samples with
high mechanical strength, consider using a load cell with
a larger capacity. Likewise, for samples with a highly
elastic component, you may need to lengthen the test
distance.
Conclusion
By identifying key characteristics that affect the fin-
ished product, texture analysis is an integral part of R&D,
process optimization, and production. It helps guide your
choices during the initial stages of development and pro-
vides at-line process control. By setting high and low lim-
its of acceptance, texture analysis enables you to optimize
manufacturing and reduce waste. T&C
Chris Freeman is sales manager for texture analyzers and Claire
Freeman is a laboratory technical specialist at Ametek's Instru-
mentation and Specialty Controls Division, Harlow, UK. The
company operates in the USA as Ametek Brookfield, 11 Com-
merce Boulevard, Middleboro, MA 02346. Tel. 508 946 6200.
Website: www.belusa.com.
Bloom jar and cylidrical probe set up to measure gel strength
