May, 2011 -- Three years ago, GEA Pharma Systems introduced ConsiGma™, an innovative high-shear granulation and drying concept capable of producing pharmaceutical granules continuously, without start-up and shut-down waste. This concept enabled the use of the same system for development and production work without the need for scale-up, as the determining factor for batch size is running time – not the size of the equipment. Batch sizes ranging from a couple of kilogrammes up to several tonnes could be produced.
In early research and formulation development however, the availability of the active ingredient is often very limited and there is a need for process equipment that is capable of producing only a couple of hundred grams to develop new drug formulas.
In response to this need, GEA Pharma Systems developed ConsiGma™-1, the lab-scale version of the ConsiGma™ concept. This system consists of a patented continuous high shear granulator equipped with all necessary auxiliaries to allow the development of the granulation process. A small dryer equal to one drying segment of the ConsiGma™ production dryer and capable of handling 0.5 to 1.5kg of granules, can be added to the lab machine, creating a unique combination with integrated controls for the development of continuous processes.
ConsiGma™-1 is capable of running batches of a couple of hundred grams up to 5 kg (or more if necessary), with less than 10 g of product held up in the process and less than 80 g of product losses. Because of the fast processing times, minimal retention times and flexibility of the system, it is ideal for developing the formula and process parameters using Design of Experiments. The process parameters developed with ConsiGma™-1 can be directly transferred to the full ConsiGma™ system.
The system is designed for fast and easy deployment in R&D labs.
Both ConsiGma™-1 and the full continuous ConsiGma™ line (including tablet press) can be tested in the new cleanroom at GEA Pharma Systems in Wommelgem.
See GEA Pharma Systems on Stand number F24, Hall 8a.
Learn more about continuous processing at Interpack 2011 www.gea-ps.com/interpack
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GEA Pharma Systems is dedicated to innovation and thereby providing durable quality through its well-established brands: Aeromatic-Fielder™ and Collette™ - batch and continuous granulation, drying, pelletizing and coating; Buck® - contained materials handling; Courtoy™ - tablet compression; and Lyophil™ - pharmaceutical freeze drying.
