Lab roller compactor for pharmaceutical research

Edited by the Processingtalk editorial team Apr 2, 2004

A laboratory-scale roller compactor, for pharmaceutical industry research and product testing, provides the data needed for optimising current production compacting operations or implementing new ones

A new laboratory-scale roller compactor, designed specifically for pharmaceutical industry research and product testing by KRKomarek, provides the data needed for optimising current production compacting operations or most effectively implementing new ones.

The new Komarek Model B050PH -- smallest unit of its type -- is self-contained in a compact, free-standing unit with all drive components separated from the material processing path and washdown, protected by cabinet enclosure made of 316L stainless steel.

Material-contact components are of appropriate stainless steel alloys, with roller shafts turning in lubrication-free front roller bearings.

Material-path covers and other parts are easily removable for quick set-up changes, cleaning and sterilisation.

A powered screw (auger) feeder precisely controls delivery of powder or granular test material to vertically paired compacting rolls, allowing throughput of up to 20 kg/h (44 lb/h).

An optional granulator is designed to fit below the compacting rolls within the covered output chute.

Controls and displays are housed in a separate cabinet, top-mounted on a swivel base to accommodate user-preferred viewing direction.

Controls offer independent dial-type speed selection for the screw feeder and compacting rolls.

All important process parameters are continuously displayed via digital readouts with outputs available for the lab data acquisition system.

Mounted on four large castors for easy-rolling mobility, Model B050PH occupies a footprint 644mm (28.38") wide x 626mm (24.66") deep, with full-swivel arc for the control cabinet extending maximum overhang clearance to 734mm (28.92") wide x 835mm (32.89") deep.

Over-all height, from floor to top of control cabinet, is 1512mm (59.57").

Compacting rolls measure 100mm (3.9") in diameter x 38mm (1.5") wide, and apply maximum roll torque of 2 x 380 Nm (2 x 280 lb.ft), with maximum roll separating force of 50 kN (13.2 kN/cm) or 5.6 short t (3.5 t/inch).

Maximum feed screw torque is 42 Nm (31 lb.ft).

Model B050PH operates on 220 VAC, 50/60 Hz single-phase service and draws total power of 1.6 kW (2.2 kW with optional granulator).

Komarek offers the widest range of test and production roll-type machines in the industry, with current capacities ranging from 20 kg (44 lbs)/hr to 70 tons/hr, producing sheet, stick or briquet output sized from less than 8mm (0.3") to 152mm (6") or more.