Lab-Scale Extruder & Spheronizer Combo in Action

Lab-Scale Extruder

A versatile Low pressure granulator tool from VJ Instruments. The VJ Instruments Multi Granulator is a bench- top device that allows formulation researchers and new product developers to readily evaluate the best of Four different types of low pressure granulation techniques— dome, cone, radial, and axial extrusion— and determine which one suits their product. The Multi Granulator’s size and unique design allow it to evaluate batches as low as 200 grams, saving time and money, yet generating product that is indicative of a full scale production system. Four types of extrusion—dome, Cone, axial, and radial—can be evaluated by simply changing the extrusion head. VJ Instruments offers four types of low pressure extruders.

Operation
The Multi Granulator is easy to setup and assemble with any of the four extrusion configurations for immediate use. A wet mixture is separately prepared manually or in a small mixer. The extruder is fitted with the appropriate die (or screen). The prepared wet material is manually fed through the feed hopper. The wet mass is transported to the extrusion area by a single feed screw. The wet material is gently wiped through the die (screen) yielding well formed extrudates.

Features

1.  Single screw extruder with variable speed (10-90 rpm)  Easily converts into a dome, cone, radial, or axial extruder
2. Capable of extruding granules from 0.3 mm to 8.0 mm diameter. Axial from 2.0 mm to 8.0 mm diameter; Radial from 0.6 mm to 1.2 mm diameter; Dome & Cone from 0.3 mm to 2.0 mm diameter
3. GMP design with SS 316 contact parts
4. Die is SS 316 ๏ 1.0hp 230VAC /3/60 variable speed drive for extrusion screw
5. Sanitary clamps allow for quick disassembly, cleaning, and conversion to any of the three extrusion configurations. No tools required.
6. Separate stainless steel control panel with motor starter

Application
Chemical / Agrochemical
✓ Herbicides / Insecticides / Fungicides
✓ Catalysts
✓ Flavors
✓ Neutraceuticals
Pharmaceuticals / Food
✓ Controlled Release Pellets
✓ Multi-Particulate Systems
✓ Sustained Release Polymer Coated Pellets
✓ Enteric Coated Pellets

Lab-Scale Spheronizer

The VJ Instruments Spheronizer is a bench top device that provides
researchers and new product developers a means to easily
evaluate the effectiveness of spheronization on their extruded
products. The size and unique features allow it to evaluate
batch sizes as small as one litre, while generating product
indicative of a full scale production system. The lab spheronizer
is designed to convert moist cylindrical extruded granules into
smooth, uniform spheres in a variety of applications.

Features

1. Bench top device ideal for a laboratory environment
2. Easy disassembly of process parts
3. 230 mm diameter friction plate
4. Capable of producing 0.5 mm to 10.0 mm spheres
5. Friction plates available with groove spaces of 1-8 mm
6. Friction plates available in various grid patterns
7. Variable plate speeds between 600- 1800 rpm
8. GMP design with SS 316 product contact parts 304SS jacketed bowl for heating/ cooling 1.0hp 230VAC /3 / 60 motor to drive friction plate
9. Separate stainless steel control panel with motor starter and inverter

Operation
The Spheronizer can be easily assembled with the desired friction plate for spheronization. Moist granules, from
an extruder or mixer, are fed into the spinning friction plate and thrown against the inside of the Spheronization,
forming a “twisting rope”. Collisions of the particles with the wall, friction plate, and other particles result in plastic
deformation of the granules, forming spheres. The final shape of particles is time and formulation dependent.
Once the desired particle shape is achieved, the batch is discharged through a manual plug valve and discharge
chute, collected, and dried.