The Hidden Influence of Dwell Time on Tablet Manufacturing Excellence

Dwell time, a critical parameter in tablet manufacturing, wields a substantial influence on tablet quality and the overall production process. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the concept of dwell time, its profound impact on tablet compression, and the multifaceted factors that it influences.

Unveiling the Essence of Dwell Time

Dwell time, within the context of tablet compression, refers to the duration during which the punches of the tablet compression machine cease their vertical motion, reaching maximum penetration within the die beneath the primary compression rollers. This critical phase occurs as the compression rollers make contact with the flat surface of the punch head. To calculate tablet press dwell time, one simply divides the punch head flat dimension by the turret’s tangential velocity.

The Far-Reaching Influence of Dwell Time

Dwell time is not merely a mechanical metric; it significantly shapes the quality and characteristics of tablet products, bearing implications for the pharmaceutical industry, among others. Here is a detailed look at how dwell time reverberates through the tablet manufacturing process:

Enhancing Tablet Strength: Dwell time emerges as a pivotal factor in bolstering tablet strength. By allowing ample time for compression, it aids in the expulsion of entrapped air within the tablet. This seemingly subtle action is pivotal in averting issues like diminished tensile strength, delamination, or capping.

Tailoring to Granule Properties: Dwell time is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Some granules, owing to their distinctive properties, necessitate extended dwell times. This prolonged duration ensures proper tablet hardness and mitigates potential problems like adhesion or sticking.

Dwell Time and Tooling: The choice of tooling configurations wields considerable influence over dwell time. Various punch head configurations, including those with elongated heads, can effectively extend the dwell times.

Tooling Configurations and Dwell Time

The selection of tooling configurations hinges on specific application requirements and desired dwell times. Typically adhering to either European ISO or American TSM standards, manufacturers can tailor their tooling to meet their unique needs. Two common tooling configurations are:

“B” Tooling: Distinguished by their compact bodies, “B” tooling is ideally suited for high-volume tablet production. Consequently, they yield shorter dwell times.

“D” Tooling: On the opposite end of the spectrum, “D” tooling flaunts larger bodies and heads, making them conducive to producing larger tablets. Naturally, these configurations result in longer dwell times during tablet production.

The Nexus Between Dwell Time and Tablet Quality

A myriad of factors influences dwell time, which subsequently reverberates throughout tablet production. Some of the variables include:

Turret Speed: Manipulating the turret speed can directly impact dwell time. Slowing down the turret speed elongates the dwell time; however, this does result in a reduction in overall production rates.

Material Properties: The nature of the tablet’s raw materials profoundly influences dwell time. Variations in flowability, consistency, and compressibility necessitate distinct dwell times for optimal outcomes.

Machine Calibration and Maintenance: Well-maintained machines calibrated to perfection are pivotal for maintaining consistent dwell times, ensuring uniform tablet quality. This also influences the tablet coater process typically following tablet compression.

A Holistic Approach to Tablet Production

Understanding dwell time in its entirety empowers pharmaceutical manufacturers to make informed decisions that cascade through the entire tablet production process. With years of industry experience, F Plus Healthcare Technologies leads as a premier provider of industrial tableting technology solutions, seamlessly integrating tablet compression, a tablet coating machine, and more. Our integrated equipment solutions cater to diverse requirements, fortified by unwavering customer support. Situated in Mumbai, India, we provide dependable assistance to customers across the Globe.

F Plus Healthcare Technologies proudly offers cutting-edge tablet compression machines and accessories designed for modern pharmaceutical needs. Our machines are versatile, capable of seamless integration into central systems or independent operation, providing flexibility to our valued clients. Moreover, they adhere to the highest industry standards, including 21 CFR Part 11, EU-GMP, and US-FDA compliance. We cater to pharma industries across the globe, providing quality machines and equipment to regions like Turkey, Tunisia, Russia, Syria, and Vietnam and many more. To discover more about our advanced machinery and its capabilities, please reach out to us at [email protected].