A semi-automatic capsule machine carries out some manual operations along with automated procedure for filling powder or granules into capsules This machine has a silicon capsule loader, powder hopper, tamping station & sealing stations.
The process is started with a capsule loader that can take about 300 capsules at one time. The machine is manually loaded with empty capsules by the operator and then separates capsule caps from bodies automatically. Separation is important as it allows for efficient filling in the next step.
Then, the powder hopper dispenses the fill content into the capsule bodies. They have different hopper sizes, some having a capacity of 3 kilograms and other up to 5kgs of powder. Repeatability in the filling process is maintained as well by tamping pinswhich compress powder to yield consistent fill weights. Certain systems, like Feton FT-600 semi-automatic capsule machine ensures fill weights up to ±3% for compliance with pharmaceutical industry guidelines.
Tamping stations follow with consistent pressure, compacting the powder within the capsule bodies. For a pre-set number of counts, this step is repeated multiple times at high rate to achieve the target weight fill for each capsule. Finally an operator adjusts settings as needed while monitoring the tamping process for consistency In turn, determining the efficiency of this step can also have a major impact on how many capsules per hour are put out by the machine - some top-quality models boasting filling speeds upwards of 50K per hour.
After filling the capsules are transfer to sealing station. Capsule caps are rejoined with the bodies at this point. The sealing design prevents the capsules from opening and leak their contents. Machines such as the CapsulCN SF-800 employ pneumatic systems to apply targeted pressure during sealing, all but ensuring a reliable process.
Price Price, prices Prices are a big reason many people get semi-automatic capsule machines. Machines of this sort may range from $10,000 to $50,000 with more capacity and features. The cost saving can be achieved from the rise in productivity and reduction in labor expenses for a semi-automatic capsule machine investment. For example, semi-automatic machines are more suitable for small to medium-sized production seriesions by pharmaceutical companies, as they have lower costs and level of details & tonsils.
Another point of semi-automatic capsule machines to be paid attention is the durability and maintenance. When properly taken care of, these appliances last a lot longer than 10 years and can therefore be viewed as an investment. This involves cleaning the machine components, lubricating moving parts and also replacing worn-out parts so it remains in peak working condition.
The semi-automatic capsule machine brings an automation level midway between the fully automatic variety and requiring manual labor to provide operators with visibility into production (though never as helpful interfacing + reports provided by Computer Integrated Manufacturing) while giving way to higher output rates. Additional details on this topic are available at semi automatic capsule machine.