L.B. Bohle White Paper presents robust semi-continuous tablet coating solution

Leading pharmaceutical equipment manufacturer L.B. Bohle Maschinen und Verfahren GmbH (L.B. Bohle)  has published a new White Paper showing how integration of the KOCO 25 semi-continuous coater and ROB 50 automated post hoist can create a robust semi-continuous production solution for high quality coated tablets.

The technical paper ‘Seamless Integration of a Semi-Continuous Coating Process into Existing Solid Dosage Production’ is based on a case study in which the L.B. Bohle KOCO 25 semi-continuous coater and ROB 50 automated post hoist were integrated into a single process that was then used to subject tablets to eight coating cycles using 15 kg of cores per cycle, targeting a weight gain of 3%. ​

Bridging tablet press to coating

The ROB 50 automated transfer of tablet cores from the tablet press to the coating process, reducing storage costs and lead times, while the  KOCO 25 design, with its helical mixing spirals for uniform tablet distribution and minimal spray drying, was able to operate cyclically to execute defined recipes through phases of feeding, warming, spraying, drying, cooling, and discharging. ​These rapid cycle transitions maintained high throughput without compromising product quality.

The study revealed that the integrated process achieved a throughput of 25 kg/h, with cycle durations between 29 and 32 minutes, and consistent spray rates of 120 g/min. ​

High quality maintained

A Raman spectroscopy probe was used for in-line monitoring, enhancing process control and quality assurance. ​Qualitative assessments indicated homogeneous coating results across cycles, demonstrating the system’s reliability and efficiency. ​

Minor deposits observed after multiple cycles did not impair operation, thanks to anti-clogging spray nozzles and effective air flow management.

The study showed how the KOCO 25 operating in conjunction with the ROB 50, could provide a robust solution for pharmaceutical manufacturers, enabling efficient and high-quality semi-continuous coating processes. ​It also confirmed the system’s capability to maintain consistent quality and throughput, making it suitable for both existing and new production lines.

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