Filling Process of Empty Hard Gelatin Capsules

Hard gelatin capsules are an efficient and popular choice for encapsulating various pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products. They are not only easy to ingest, but also protect sensitive ingredients and have the ability to mask unpleasant tastes. In this blog post, Wecaps will provide you with the empty hard gelatin capsules filling process from preparation to final packaging.

Introduction to Hard Gelatin Capsules

Hard gelatin capsules are made from gelatin, a protein derived from collagen, which is found in bones. The gelatin is mixed with water and other ingredients and then molded into a two-piece capsule: a body and a lid.

Pre-Filling Preparation

1. Selection of Ingredients: The first step in the process is selecting the appropriate ingredients for the capsule's contents. This can range from powdered medications to herbal extracts or even dietary supplements.

2. Quality Control: Each ingredient must undergo rigorous testing to ensure it meets the required quality standards. This includes checking for purity, potency, and the absence of contaminants.

3. Blending: Once the ingredients are verified, they are blended together to create a uniform mixture. This step is crucial for ensuring that each capsule contains an accurate and consistent dose of the active ingredients.

4. Drying: If the mixture is moist, it may need to be dried to reduce the moisture content. This prevents the capsules from sticking together and ensures a longer shelf life.

5. Sieving: The blended mixture is passed through a sieve to remove any lumps and ensure a smooth, flowable powder that will fill the capsules evenly.

The Filling Process

1. Machine Preparation: The capsule filling machine is prepared by setting the correct parameters for the size of the capsules and the desired fill weight. This machine is calibrated to ensure accuracy in the filling process.

2. Loading Capsules: Empty hard gelatin capsules are loaded onto the machine. The body and cap are separated and fed into the machine at different points.

3. Filling: The machine fills the body of the capsule with the prepared mixture. This is done with precision to ensure that each capsule contains the correct amount of the mixture.

4. Sealing: Once the body is filled, the cap is placed on top, and the capsule is sealed. The sealing process ensures that the contents are securely contained within the capsule.

5. Inspection: After sealing, the filled capsules are inspected for any defects, such as improper filling or sealing.

6. Ejection: The filled and sealed capsules are ejected from the machine and collected for further processing.

Post-Filling Processes

1. Cleaning: The capsules are cleaned to remove any dust or residue from the filling process. This ensures that the final product is clean and free from contaminants.

2. Polishing: Some manufacturers may choose to polish the capsules to give them a shiny, professional appearance.

3. Coating: If necessary, the capsules can be coated with a thin layer of gelatin or another material to provide additional protection or to enhance their appearance.

4. Quality Assurance: The filled capsules undergo a series of tests to ensure they meet all quality standards. This includes checking for the correct fill weight, proper sealing, and the absence of defects.

5. Packaging: The capsules are then packaged into bottles, blister packs, or other forms of packaging. Each package is labeled with the necessary information, such as the product name, ingredients, dosage instructions, and expiration date.

6. Storage: Proper storage conditions are crucial to maintain the quality of the capsules. They should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

The filling process of empty hard gelatin capsules is a meticulous and controlled procedure that ensures the production of a high-quality, consistent product. From the careful selection and preparation of ingredients to the precise filling and sealing process, each step has an impact on the final result. Wecaps' automated capsule production line is strictly controlled throughout the entire process, and the empty capsules we produce and supply are worthy of your trust!