Lödige Receives Groundbreaking Order from Major German Pharmaceutical Manufacturer

Gebr. Lödige Maschinenbau has received the first groundbreaking order for the large-scale implementation of the new Coater LC Series from a major German pharmaceutical manufacturer that will be using a coating system model LC 150 with a useable volume of 750 l for the organic coating of tablets. Commissioning/start-up is scheduled for April 2015.

The new Coater LC Series from Lödige was specially developed for coating tablets. The top priority in the conception was optimum process management in addition to ease of operation and ease of cleaning. All three sub-processes, which are relevant for film coating, were optimized: spraying the coating solution, mixing the tablets, and drying them.

At the same time, this new development distinguishes itself with a new design for spraying on the coating solution with a high number of jets, which enables a perfect fit with the tablet bed. The technology makes it possible to easily set and automatically control the correct spraying distance and angle at any time, in order to achieve a perfect result. At the same time, the optimum arrangement and number of jets accelerates the process in comparison to comparable coaters.

Complex Task Settings
The recently commissioned coating system is complex: the task requires complex gas preparation technology, especially after a large amount of drying gas is used. In addition, the system is equipped with a specially designed and extensive high pressure jet assembly.

This ensures short processing times, as well as superior coating homogeneity of the tablets. To guard against explosions, the entire process takes place in a nitrogen circulation system. Nitrogen blocks atmospheric oxygen. The oxygen concentration in the unit is monitored continually. During the process the solvent is condensed.

Lödige was chosen after intensive experimentation with numerous other coating system providers. Beyond the production of the coater, the order also encompasses the complete installation and commissioning/start-up of the unit.

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