A feasibility study on pellet coating using a high-speed quasi-continuous coater

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Technology
• Process Engineering

Background:

• Traditional pellet coating relies on Wurster coaters.
• A novel Supercell™ coater with unique airflow was developed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the Supercell™ coater's feasibility for pellet coating.
• To optimize coating parameters for different pellet sizes and batch loads.

Main Methods:

• A full factorial design evaluated spray rate, batch size, pellet size, and plenum pressure.
• Pellet flow patterns and coating efficiencies were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Successful pellet coating was achieved in the Supercell™ coater.
• High plenum pressure and low spray rates reduced agglomeration.
• Larger batch sizes improved coating efficiency.

Conclusions:

• The Supercell™ coater is a viable alternative for pellet coating.
• Optimized conditions, including high plenum pressure (1,500 mm WC) and adjusted spray rates, ensure efficient coating.
• Pellet flow patterns correlate with coating outcomes.