Written by Capsule filling machines are those machines which are used for the purpose of filling the empty capsules with some powders, granules, pellets or even liquids in order to make some capsule products such as dietary supplements and medicines etc. Hot or humid environment greatly affects the quality of the filled capsule due to the nature of the materials used in the manufacturing process and therefore selecting the right capsule filler to fill the capsules is crucial for efficiency and quality. Here is a guide on key factors to consider when selecting a capsule filling machine:Here is a guide on key factors to consider when selecting a capsule filling machine:
Types of Capsule Fillers
The first decision is whether you need a manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic capsule filler:The first decision is whether you need a manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic capsule filler:
- Manual Capsule Fillers: These simple manual machines call for manual positioning filling and capping of each capsule one at a time. In terms of output, they are relatively slow with a production rate of between 100-500 capsules per hour and are most suitable for small scale operations or research.
- Semi-Automatic Capsule Fillers: These let you load several doses at a time using a trigger button, yet you have to align the empty capsules by hand and remove the full ones. This means that the outputs produced vary from 1000 to 20000 capsules per a single hour of operation.
- Fully Automatic Capsule Fillers: These systems are fully automated to fill the capsules in large batches, to a point where the process is almost entirely devoid of any hands-on work. This means that the outputs produced are above 20000 capsules per hour.
Filler Parts and Accessories
Key filler parts to evaluate are the dosing station, tamping station, capsule holders/orienters, and discharge mechanism:Key filler parts to evaluate are the dosing station, tamping station, capsule holders/orienters, and discharge mechanism:
- Dosing Station: Select accurate measures of powders, such as dosators or pumps, as well as for liquids. By having multiple dosing heads there is an increase in output.
- Tamping Station: For this, seek solid tamping pins that would equally compress powders and eliminate voids. Multiple tamping heads are desirable for a higher number of cups tamped in a given time.
- Capsule Holders: Employ strict orientation techniques to ensure correct positioning of empty capsules to allow easy flow through the automated filling system. Modularity aids in the implementation of size modulate.
- Discharge: Longer lasting ones are not necessary but rather prefer fast acting systems to easily discharge and capture filled capsules without sticking together. The type of discharge plates that could be utilized include the vibratory discharge plates or the drop chutes.
Other components such as dust collectors, vacuum pumps, and finishers to enhance the efficiency of cleaning and finishing as well as yield better products.
Filler Capacity and Output
Its important to look at the long term goal of the business when making the decision on choosing a capsule filler. Having machines that hold size 00 to 5 capsules which can hold 0. 2ml to 1. 37ml will allow you to accommodate the future products. Consideration of filler output should be in a way that they should match the production targets without having to run the machine for long hours.
Validation and GMP Compliance
Choose machines manufactured using stainless steel or other suitable materials and are cGMP compliant to avoid product contamination and withstand degradation from powders or liquids. Minimise risk by looking for GMP certification and ensure that documentation for IQ/OQ validation is available.
Budget
Capsule filler cost differs a lot, it could start from $3000 for a small capsule filler that only uses a few hundred pieces of capsules a day and reach up to $120,000 for large automatic capsule production machines with full feature package. Identify your needs in a machine and then look for one that fits your needs as well as your pocket.
They are easy to operate and maintain which is an important aspect in the growing of fish and other aquatic animals.
Make sure that its control panel is designs in a simple way and that it has an operating process which can be easily taught to the staff. No tools required disassembly, simple to clean, and the components that are convenient for maintenance, such as stainless steel, reduce the time required to preserve uptime.
Reputation and Support
Select a reputable filler organization that has a good reputation for providing quality equipment accompanied with excellent customer support services. This means assistance as and when you require it, in addition to having access to genuine spare parts and accessories for your machine from arrival until its disposal.
Test filling your actual product This box may be the bottom of the container or the lid or any other part of the packaging.
For any capsule filler supplier that has been shortlisted, inquire whether you can sample fill your powder or liquid in the machine to help evaluate the performance and yields. This defines the best settings and it will assure that the filler is delivering your capsules with the quality that you require.
With the above key points in mind, one can identify and select a suitable capsule filling machine that suits production setting, production capacity, and types of capsules. Spending time at the beginning to clearly articulate requirements and spend a significant amount of time and resources in properly evaluating and testing fillers will be rewarded with well-structured and executed filling processes and high quality capsules. There are many suppliers for these machines and reliable ones can help you in choosing the right one affordable to start your capsule production.
