7 Questions to Answer Before Buying a Capsule Filling ...

28 Oct.,2024

 

7 Questions to Answer Before Buying a Capsule Filling ...

- Friday, November 3,

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Are you interested in purchasing a capsule making machine? Have you ever wondered what kind of capsule filling machine would be perfect for your production? Are there questions about a capsule filling machine you have not been able to find suitable answers to?

Check out these primary questions you need to be answered before you order a capsule filling machine.

1. What are the basic things I need to know about a capsule filling machine?

A capsule filling machine is also known as an Encapsulating machine or Capsule filler. The capsule filler is used to fill the empty capsules with the required material, which could be solid, liquid, or semi-solid/liquid.

It is a popular device widely used in many industries, including the pharmaceutics, food, chemical, and packaging industry, and many other sectors. With the continuous advancement in technology, the latest capsule filling machine produces 200,000 capsules per hour with efficient automatic controls, including filling, positioning, locking, and counting.

2. What kind of materials do I require for a capsule filling machine?

There are two categories of capsules: soft capsules and hard gelatin capsules.

The soft capsules are filled with a blend of active ingredients in liquid or semi-liquid form. The soft capsule shell is usually made of gelatin, water, a plasticizer, and an opacifier, which could be glycerin or sorbitol.

Hard gelatin capsules are filled with single or combined forms of dry powder, granules, micro tables, small capsules, and coated beads. The shell consists of gelatin. Other substances, such as opacifiers, preservatives, colorants, and plasticizers are added to the hard gelatin shell to enhance capsule formation and performance.

HPMC capsules also known as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose capsules are also recommended due to their low moisture content compared to hard gelatin capsules. During the production/ encapsulation process, there could be brittle and breakage of the hard gelatin capsules under mechanical stress, which mainly happens due to the hygroscopic content of the hard gelatin capsules usually about 13% to 16%.

Read More:

What Capsule Dosage Forms Can be Used in Capsule Fillers?

3. What production capacity do I require for a capsule filling machine?

There are three major types of capsule filling machines which are:

  • Automatic capsule filling machine
  • Semi-automatic capsule filling machine
  • Manual capsule filling machine

Depending on your production capacity, any of the three capsule filling machines would fit comfortably into your needs. It is also important to note that each type of capsule filling machine has its peculiar pros and cons.

Automatic capsule filling machine

The automatic capsule filling machine is preferred for large-scale production. Its operations are completely automated, and the device is durable and designed for long-lasting operations.

The production capacity of an automatic capsule filling machine is an average of 200,000 to 400,000 capsules per hour. It is frequently used in pharmaceutical companies with multiple-line productions.

Some of the benefits of the automatic capsule filling machine include:

  • It has a high production capacity
  • It has enhanced accuracy in filling capsules
  • It is user-friendly
  • It requires low maintenance
  • There is minimal downtime during productio

Semi-automatic capsule filling machine

The semi-automatic capsule filling machine combines automated and manual operations. It is preferred for operations with varying sizes of powders, pellets, or granules. The semi-automatic capsule filling machine also has a high production capacity from 25,000 to 47,000 capsules per hour, subject to the operator&#;s skill set and capsule size.

Some of the benefits of the semi-automatic capsule filling machine include

  • It has enhanced accuracy in filling capsules due to its automated operations.
  • It is power saving
  • It performs a quick and safe operation of filling and ejecting
  • It is easy to upgrade
  • It is easy to operate

Manual capsule filling machine

The manual capsule filling machine is completely operated by manpower. It is used in small to medium-sized productions. The device can open and fill about 300 capsules per cycle.

The parts of the basic model of the manual capsule filling machine can be changed and modified to fit your requirements.

Some of the benefits of the manual capsule filling machine include

  • It is easy to operate.
  • It has a simple design.
  • It is cost-effective
  • It has a precise filling, and it reduces powder wastage.

Also, before purchasing the capsule filling machine, it is advisable to consult with your vendor to make an efficient choice for your production capsule.

4. How do I determine my capsule size?

There are charts and graphs for the basic sizes and measurements of capsules and the required formulations and dosing units.

Capsule sizes usually range from sizes 000 to 5. The preferred sizes are 00 to 2 because they are easy to swallow.

EMPTY CAPSULE SIZE

Capsule Size

0

00E

0

0E

0

1

2

3

4

5

EMPTY CAPSULE WEIGHT

Average Weight (mg)

158

143

123

107

99

78

61

48

38

28

Tolerance

±10

±10

±7

±7

±6

±5

±4

±3

±3

±2

EMPTY CAPSULE VOLUME CAPACITY (ml)

Capacity

1.37

1

0.9

0.78

0.68

0.48

0.36

0.27

0.2

0.13

FORMULATION DENSITY

Formulation Density

0.6g/ml

822

600

540

468

408

288

216

162

120

78

0.8g/ml

800

720

624

544

384

288

Are you interested in learning more about Capsule House? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

216

160

104

1.0g/ml

900

780

680

480

360

270

200

130

1.2g/ml

936

816

576

432

324

240

156

 

You can consult with your vendor to recommend the capsule size and capsule filling machine to fit your production needs.

5. How can I maintain a budget when purchasing a capsule filling machine?

Maintaining a production budget with top-quality materials can be very tasking. Also considering a fast line production and still staying ahead of the competition. Before maintaining a budget, it is essential to maintain top-quality production at all times.

While discussing with your vendor, he/she might suggest a capsule filling machine that is a little above your budget. You could revise your budget to get the right capsule filling machine needed for your production.

6. What is the maintenance routine for a capsule filling machine?

Every machine requires regular maintenance to guarantee its durability.

A regular maintenance routine involves

  • Cleaning the machine with a nylon brush.
  • Cleaning of the parts that come in contact with powders and materials after a period of production.
  • There would be a need for a change of parts in cases of wear and tear.
  • Wiping off the grease lines in the machine after a day of work.
  • Regular opening and cleaning of the filter of the vacuum system.
  • Periodic lubrication to ensure the efficient running of the machine.

Things you should avoid when cleaning the capsule filling machine are

  • Do not clean the capsule filling machine with hot water or dip it in corrosive liquids (acids, alcohol, alkaline) overnight.
  • Do not clean the machine with heating appliances, like an oven.

You can extend the shelf life of the capsule filling machine by 60 to 90% with proper cleaning and regular lubrication. It is advised to always clean the machine at the end of the day&#;s production. Do not leave powders in the machine overnight. It could dry and garden resulting in swift wear and tear of the machine.

7. What are the primary factors in choosing a capsule filling machine?

Now, there are some tips you need to consider before making the final choice for the capsule filling machine for your production. Let us look at them briefly.

  • The reason for your purchase

The reason for your purchase of a capsule filling machine is very crucial. You need to consider the type of production you are after which could be

1. Hard gelatin or soft gel capsules.

2. Automatic, semi-automatic, or manual capsule filling machine.

3. Size of the capsule.

  • Size of the machine

You need to consider the size of the machine you need for production. You can purchase a lighter machine for easy transportation between sites. Or you could get a larger capsule filling machine for better functionality if the production site is fixed.

  • Production capacity

Automatic capsule filling machines are recommended for large-scale productions with multiple lines. For small-scale production, a manual capsule filling machine is better to help save costs.

  • Features of the machine

If you want to limit human contact and contamination of the product, it is better to opt for the automatic capsule filling machine.

Also, you could consider the customization option of the machine. There are available capsule filling machines that you can modify to fit your requirements.

  • Cost

As a manufacturer, you have an overview of the cost of the entire production. When making consultations about the type of machine to purchase, you should look out for a machine that is within your budget range without comprising the efficiency and quality of your products.

Conclusion

With all this information at your fingertips, the next step is to find a vendor that will guide you in picking the best capsule filling machine for your production

With 17 years of expertise, iPharMachine takes its place as one of the leaders in the pharmaceutical and pharmaceutical packaging industry. We prioritize quality equipment over quantity and are dedicated to providing the best capsule filling machine and other pharmaceutical machines you need in your production.

Following years of production of capsules and related equipment, we have patented several capsule-related technologies. The team at iPharMachine focuses on research and development and provides pharmaceutical engineering solutions that meet cGMP standards.

We also offer consultations to help guide you in picking a suitable capsule filling machine. iPharMachine provides all types of capsule filling machines (automatic, semi-automatic, and automatic), and also matching separated and joined capsules.

Order your capsule filling machine today at iPharMachine.

Buying a used tiny house? Ask these 9 questions before you buy

Tiny House Hunting: 9 Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Tiny House

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While my focus is on helping people to build their own tiny houses, I do recognize that not everyone wants to or indeed should build their tiny house. Building a tiny house is a huge thing to do. It requires a lot of time, effort, patience, and skill. If you're even slightly unsure about doing it, you probably shouldn't go there.

Which leaves you with two main options. Your first option is buying a brand new tiny house from a manufacturer like Blue Ridge Tiny Homes (I saw their house, The FitNest at the Tiny House Conference and it was AMAZING). The second option is buying a used tiny house from someone who no longer wants theirs. In this post, I'm going to focus on the second option.

Why Consider Buying a Used Tiny House?

There are many reasons for buying a used tiny house.

Perhaps you've come across one for sale in your area. Maybe you've just fallen in love with that particular house. It could be that you want to visit and go inside a tiny house before you buy it. Maybe you don't want to make any design decisions at all. Perhaps you've found a used tiny house that's cheaper than the same model would be brand new. Maybe you want to get your hands on your new home straightaway.

Why Would Someone Sell Their Tiny House?

Likewise, there are many reasons why someone might put their used tiny house up for sale.

Often it's to do with logistics or an unforeseen situation &#; children come into the picture or the owner needs to relocate for work, for example. Occasionally it's because tiny house living is no longer right for them. Very rarely is it because there's something wrong with the tiny house itself.

Where Do You Find Used Tiny Houses?

You'll probably start your search for a used tiny house online. There are several sites with tiny house listings, like Tiny House For Us and Tiny House Listings. Some other tiny house websites also mention tiny houses for sale in their blog posts. Follow sites like these, whether that's on social media or by signing up to their newsletters. This way, you'll be the first to hear of any new listings.

You could also set up an alert on a site like Craigslist, post in relevant Facebook groups, and ask around at tiny house events, workshops, and in tiny house communities. Of course, a quick Google search could bring up some results too.

What Should You Ask When Buying a Used Tiny House?

Buying a used tiny house from a stranger may feel a bit more nerve-racking than buying a brand new one from a reputable manufacturer. You've got no idea what sort of person you're talking to, what experience they have with construction, and therefore what the quality of their tiny house is likely to be.

By preparing your questions ahead of time, you'll be able to find out everything you need to know to make sure this is a sensible purchase. Here are nine questions I recommend you include in your list.

1. Who built it?

You want to know if the tiny house you're considering buying was built by an amateur or a professional. If it was built by a professional, you can have more confidence in the quality of the build. If, however, it was built by someone who had never built anything before this house, you'll need to tread more carefully.

It might be worth dragging a friend along or hiring someone who works in construction to come and check out the structure with you. You'll want to be confident that the house is safe and that it won't fall apart as soon as a storm hits or you hook it up to a truck.

2. Is there anything wrong with it?

If someone's already lived in this tiny house, you need to know why they're leaving it. The chances are that it's nothing to do with the house itself; it's probably a personal decision.

Ask if the current owner has had any issues or annoyances with the house. Is there anything in it that doesn't work? Is there too little space between the kitchen cabinets? Does it get too cold in winter? Ask as much as you can to find out about the reality of living in this exact tiny house, so you understand what you're signing up for.

3. How much does it weigh?

It's important that the tiny house weighs less than the maximum weight the trailer was designed to handle. It's also important to know if it's approaching that maximum weight. If it's close, you might not be able to move all of your possessions into the house.

You'll also need to know the total weight to ensure you'll be able to tow it. If you're looking for a tiny house you can travel with, look for a light tiny house. My tiny house is at the upper end of the weight scale but that's fine for me, because I'm not planning on moving it much.

4. Was it built on a new trailer?

One way to cut costs when building a brand new tiny house is by building on a used trailer. However, building on a used trailer comes with a lot of downsides, as Adam Odom explains in Tiny House Decisions.

Usually a lot of work needs to be done to fix up the old trailer, to make it a solid enough foundation upon which to build a house. You need to know what you're doing to fix up a salvaged trailer and make it fit for purpose.

If you're considering buying a used tiny house, you need to get an idea of the condition the trailer was in before the house was built on top of it. If there's anything wrong with it, your tiny house won't last long.

5. How do the utilities work?

There are lots of different ways to set up utilities in a tiny house, and each way comes with pros and cons, which I go into in Tiny House Decisions. To understand whether or not a used tiny house is appropriate for you and your needs, you need to know how these utilities work.

For example, you'll want to ask whether or not there's a water tank. If there is, you can go off-grid. If there's not, you're going to have to stay hooked up. If there is a tank, is there also a way to hook up to the mains? If not, you're going to have to find a way to keep the tank topped up and you're not going to be able to have long showers, for example.

And how is this tiny house heated? If it uses propane, how much does it use? If it uses electricity, you won't be able to go off-grid. If it uses wood, where are you going to store the wood?

You'll also want to ask about winter plumbing, hot water, the toilet, the fridge, the ventilation, and so on.

6. What type of insulation does it have?

Depending on where you live, insulation can be important. For me, living in Vermont, it was essential that I chose the most efficient insulation per square inch of wall cavity. If you live somewhere cold, make sure the insulation in the house will be good enough for your area. Check the R-value of the material used to make sure it's good enough for your climate.

7. What type of electricity does it use?

&#;Typical&#; homes in the USA are wired for AC, which means our appliances are designed to run on AC too. If the used tiny house you're looking at is wired for DC only, you'll have to buy special versions of all your appliances.

The good news is that since boats and RVs are usually wired for DC, these appliances aren't hard to come by. The bad news is that these appliances tend to be cheap and of poor quality. They're not designed to be used every day.

Make sure you know which type of wiring is used, as well as what the implications of that decision will be for you.

8. What's included?

Make sure to find out what's included in the price. If, for example, they remove the fridge, you'll need to find one that uses the right kind of fuel and that's the right size. Extras like this will bring the total cost up.

It's unlikely that they'll remove too many items, since many will have been specifically chosen with the tiny house in mind, but it's worth asking just in case.

9. How will you get it?

If you like the look of a used tiny house, double check where it is and whether or not transportation is included in the cost. If it's not, find out what you'll need to do to arrange collection. Will the previous owner help you hook up the house to a truck? How much will it cost to have someone drive the house across the country? When will you be able to get it?

Make sure all the details are ironed out before you commit to anything. You don't want to end up buying a used tiny house that you can't then move.

Buying a Used Tiny House Can Be a Good Option

If you want to save time, money, and effort, and get your hands on a completed tiny house quickly, buying a used one could be the perfect decision for you. But make sure you know what you're looking for when you start your search and how you'll know whether or not you've found a good deal. If necessary, find someone who knows what they're looking for to go with you when you check out any potential new homes.

Buying rather than building doesn't mean you get to skip learning about the different types of electricity, fuel, insulation, and so on. Each decision made during the building of your used tiny house will have an impact on your tiny house lifestyle. If the toilet's a composting toilet, you'll have to source sawdust and keep a compost heap. If there's no water tank, you won't be able to go off-grid. If the house is heated with a wood stove, you'll have to stick to the clearance requirements.

It's also important that you understand your tiny house and how it works for the times when it's not working so well. When you live in a regular house and something breaks, you can call any old electrician or plumber out to fix the issue. But when your house is as unusual as a tiny house, you need to know what's what and what's where, so you can guide the professionals.

Hopefully these questions will enable you to find out the right information about any used tiny houses you consider buying. Come up with your own questions too and work out what you're looking for in a tiny house before you go to any viewings. Good luck!

Where to go for more?

If you're buying a used tiny house, the next thing you'll need to do is find a place to park it. Don&#;t forget to check out my book Tiny House Parking for advice on finding the place best to put your new home.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Compact Luxury Living Spaces. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.