Maximum output tablet press incorporates flexibility and innovation in a higher speed platform.
The German-headquartered tablet press technology expert Korsch has introduced a new addition to its equipment portfolio that dramatically increases single-sided tablet output while maintaining flexibility and fast change design. The new X 5 tablet press is a single-sided rotary press offering an output capability 20% higher than the company’s flagship XL 400, despite a barely larger footprint.
The X 5 comes in two versions: the X 5 SFP provides dedicated single-layer capability, while the X 5 MFP offers single-layer, bi-layer, and tri-layer flexibility. Both models share a common turret and interchangeable product contact parts for maximum efficiency and flexibility in high-speed, high-volume production environments.
Incorporating Korsch’s latest innovations, the X 5 features an integrated electrical cabinet, torque drive, fully sealed design, and unsurpassed accessibility for cleaning, changeovers and maintenance. Installation options include a conventional in-room layout or through-the-wall mounting.
The new product features an innovative turret segment design, which uses standard upper and lower punches, and three die table segments that are configured for the size and shape of the tablet to be produced. For example, the standard B turret with conventional dies has 43 punch stations, and the segmented execution offers 54 punch stations, which represents a 25% increase in machine output. The X 5 can accommodate both the conventional and segmented turret design on the same machine for maximum flexibility.
The X 5 is offered in a dry containment execution (DryCon) for OEB 3 and OEB 4 applications. For all containment projects, Korsch provides a fully integrated and turnkey system, including support documentation and SMEPAC testing.
Operational efficiency
Of note, the X 5’s exchangeable turret technology affords extremely fast transition between products, and the ability to produce tablets of any size and shape. For precision tablet weight control at the highest press speeds, the X 5 features a long filling length and configurable power feeder that permits both two- and three-chamber executions. With variable feeder speed control and a wide range of paddle options, the X 5 is geared for high-output manufacturing. For changeovers, superior compression zone access, smooth surfaces and minimal fast change parts yield an expedited process for maximised machine uptime. This combination of high-speed and fast-change translates to what its makers describes as unprecedented efficiency for a high-output production machine.
The unit’s large windows provide excellent visibility and ample access to the compression zone for streamlined changeover and turret exchange. A multi-function column with three separate compartments houses the electrical components, the main energy supplies and the main dust extraction connection, while the water-cooled chiller serves both the torque drive and integrated electrical cabinet. The result is a fully sealed machine with no heat transfer to either the press’ compression zone, or the compression room. This closed design also eliminates potential contamination in the machine base or electrical cabinet, and further expedites the changeover process.
The X 5 also minimises both noise and vibration. A carrier plate supporting the proven Korsch compression columns is mounted on dampers – a design that fully isolates vibration from the head piece and machine base. The result is significantly reduced operating noise (<80 dB(A)) and elimination of vibration transmission. The pre- and main compression columns are mounted on the carrier plate, and feature an innovative retractable design to facilitate expedited cleaning and turret exchange.
Industry 4.0 features
Pharma 4.0 ready with smart metrics-monitoring features, the new tablet press provides a deeper understanding of the compression process. The unit’s on-board diagnostics and data-to-dashboard capabilities serve as the basis for manufacturing optimisation through anticipated servicing and activity analysis, helping maximise both quality and overall output.
