Granulometry for compacting tablets: a practical guide for 3 to 10 t presses
Granulometry for compacting tablets: 3 t and 10 t presses
The PSD (Particle Size Distribution) determines whether a powder flows well and compacts without problems. In this guide you will see the size ranges (in microns, µm) recommended for 3-ton presses and 10 tons, and how to prepare them with powder mixers and oscillating crushers.
What do D10, D50 and D90 mean?
D10: : 10 % of the particles is minor that this size.
D50 (medium): 50 % of the particles is minor and the 50 % elderly.
D90: 90 % of the particles is minor that this size (controls the thick “tail”).
Recommended granulometry per press
| Press | Useful window (most dust) | Aim D50 | Limit D90 | Fine <150 µm | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 tons | 150–450 µm | 200–300 µm | ≤ 600–800 µm | ≤ 2–3 % | Somewhat finer powder (without excess fines) for good compaction with less available force. |
| 10 tons | 150–500 µm | 250–400 µm | ≤ 800–900 µm | ≤ 2–3 % | Slightly coarser particles are allowed due to the increased strength; keep fines under control. |
Useful shortcuts with sieves (approx.): 100 mesh ≈ 149 µm · 60 mesh ≈ 250 µm · 35 mesh ≈ 500 µm.
How to get to that PSD with your teams
1) Powder mixers (ribbon, V, double cone)
Aim: homogeneity + good flow + compressibility.
Recommended sequence: base → diluents/agglomerates → lubricant at the end (short mix) so as not to “soften” too much.
Checkpoint: finite <150 µm ≤ 2–3 % to avoid poor flow, weight variation and capping/lamination.
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HOMOGENEOUS MIXING CONE MIXER FOR GINSENG PILL
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HORIZONTAL RIBBON MIXER FOR HOMOGENOUS POWDER FOR VITAMINS
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HIGH CAPACITY INDUSTRIAL V BLENDER MIXER
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V BLENDER MIXER FOR COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENT POWDER
4.080,65$ Taxes included2) Oscillating crushers / granulators
Key use: give final shape to the distribution → the mesh selected sets the D90.
If D90 is passed, reduces mesh and sieve again; if there are many fines, mix with a 150–500 µm fraction or dust.
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INDUSTRIAL OSCILLATING GRANULATOR FOR HYDROXIDE ACID TABLETS
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Electric grain mill 50 kg
Original price was: 1.978,53$.1.780,33$Current price is: 1.780,33$. Taxes included3) Tablet presses (3 t and 10 t)
3 t: will appreciate a D50 200–300 µm and D90 ≤ 600–800 µm.
10 t: admits D50 250–400 µm and D90 ≤ 800–900 µm, always with few fine ones.
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Pill making machine, tablets, manual or automatic tablet press
1.958,71$ Taxes includedQuick process checklist
Flow: Check the hopper/auger; if you see “bridges,” there are too many fines or an unfavorable shape.
Lubricant (e.g. magnesium stearate): 0.5–1 % (up to 2 %) and short mix at the end.
Process humidity: controls to avoid “caking” and loss of hardness.
Validation: Make 2 batches per press with D50 slightly different (e.g., 220 vs. 280 µm at 3 t) and measures weight, hardness, friability and defects (capping).
Brief FAQ
Why not use “very fine” powder?
Because flows worse, generates weight variation and increases the risk of capping/lamination.
Can I use coarse grain with 10t?
Yes, within control: D90 ≤ 800–900 µm and very low fines.
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