6D(SG)

Tester for Soft Gelatin Capsules

Precise testing of elasticity and burst strength
Compact and robust design
Proven Dr. Schleuniger force measuring
Professional reporting including statistics

Soft gelatin capsule testing > 6D(SG)

6D(SG)
The 6D(SG) has been specifically designed for testing soft gelatin capsules. Testing the
elasticity of soft gels typically serves as an indicator of whether the product can be releasedto-pack providing a reliable and repeatable measure to prevent failure during packaging.
Utilizing the 6D(SG) is a convenient and efficient method for determining correlated gelatin
moisture content values in a production environment. Four different test modes including a
burst strength test also make the 6D(SG) an ideal instrument for R&D.

The soft gelatin capsules are placed in the instrument

individually and by hand. Three types of elasticity tests
can be performed by compressing the sample. Unlike
conventional tablet hardness tests, these elasticity
tests are not designed to break the test object. On the
contrary if a capsule bursts before the specified compression distance or compression force has been
reached, the test result is automatically recorded as
failed. In addition, the 6D(SG) allows holding test
samples in a compressed condition for a user-defined
programmable time. In case the capsule does not burst
during the test but instead displays some other defect,
such as a bubble or slow leak, the operator can conveniently enter a visual pass or fail rating if required.

Absolute Diameter (elasticity test)

Measures the force required to compress the sample
by a fixed distance (in mm). The final force measurement is recorded once the specified holding time has
been reached.

Elasticity test

Measurements:
Initial diameter (or width) of the capsule
Diameter of the capsule at the end of the test
Force required to compress the capsule

Test start

Measuring of initial diameter

(or width)

Compression and measuring of

Measurements:
Initial diameter (or width) of the capsule
Diameter of the capsule at the end of the test
Force required to compress the capsule

Percent Diameter (elasticity test)

Records the force required to compress the sample by
a percentage of the measured diameter. The final force
measurement is recorded once the specified holding
time has been reached.

Absolute Force (elasticity test)

Compresses the sample with a specified force and
holds the position until the programmed holding time
has been reached.
Measurements:
Initial diameter of the capsule
Diameter of the capsule at the end of the test
Force applied to the capsule

Burst Strength (hardness test)

Compresses the capsule until failure occurs
(= the sample breaks).

diameter at the end of the test

A: Initial diameter
B: Diameter at end of the test

Measurements:
Initial diameter of the capsule
Diameter of the capsule at the point of failure
Force required to burst the capsule

Soft gelatin capsule testing > 6D(SG)

Elasticity & Burst Strength Testing

Proven Precision
The 6D(SG) uses the same precision S-beam load cell
known from the Dr. Schleuniger Pharmatron range of
tablet hardness testers. A special measuring principle
and jaw design has been implemented specifically for
testing soft gelatin capsules ensuring that measured
results meet industry standards. The testers accuracy is
easy to maintain and calibration can be performed within
minutes using reference standards. Thanks to its compact and robust design, the 6D(SG) is perfectly suited for
both laboratories and production environments.

> 6D(SG)

Professional Reporting
Upon completion of a test run (up to 100 tested samples),
a report is automatically printed without requiring PC
software. In addition to individual measurements, the
test report includes statistics (e.g. mean value, max. and
min. values, Sabs & Srel), graphs, product information
and starting date & time. Calibration and verification reports can also be printed whenever needed.

Technical Specifications
6D(SG), Tester for Soft Gelatin Capsules
Diameter (width)

Force

Measuring range

0 33 mm (0 1.3 inch)

Resolution

0.01 mm

Accuracy

+/- 0.25 mm

Units of measure

mm

Measuring range

Standard: up to 50N
Optional: 400N / 500N / 800N

Resolution

0.1N for 50N load cell

1N for 400N / 500N / 800N load cell

Accuracy

+/- 1% full scale

Units of measure

N, Kp, Sc or Pounds Apothecary

Hold time
Max. sample size

0 300 s, programmable
(per test)

100

Interfaces

RS 232

Power supply

115 230 V, 50 60 Hz

Weight

(without packaging)

approx. 10kg
(24.1 lbs)

Dimensions

Width

420 mm
(16.5 inch)

Height

185 mm
(7.2 inch)

Depth

155 mm
(6.2 inch)

CE Conformity

The 6D(SG) fully complies with all CE and EMC equipment guidelines relative
to mechanical and electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility.

Technical specifications are subject to change without prior notice. Products illustrated in this brochure
may include options or modifications not fitted as standard. No liability for errors and omissions.

Pharmatron AG | Uttigenstrasse 28 | CH-3600 Thun | Switzerland

P +41 (0)33 227 50 00 | F +41 (0)33 227 50 01 | info pharmatron.ch
www.pharmatron.com

6D(SG)_B_E_A4_V001 06/2012

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