Softgel Capsule Washing Machine

Overview

 

Our Softgel Capsule Washing Machine & Drying System is a continuous in-line processing solution designed to remove surface oil and release agent from freshly encapsulated softgel capsules. The system combines an ultrasonic cleaning stage, a recirculating spray rinse stage, and downstream tumble drying - all in a single integrated processing line.

Unlike traditional batch washing methods that require manual handling, long soak times, and produce inconsistent results, our in-line system processes capsules continuously as they exit the encapsulation machine. Rotating tumble cages gently transport capsules through each processing zone, ensuring uniform exposure to cleaning solvent and drying air - batch after batch.

Built with explosion-proof electrical components for alcohol-based cleaning environments, the system is engineered for safe, reliable operation in pharmaceutical softgel production facilities.

Capsules travel through the system in a single continuous pass, with each stage performing a specific function:

Stage 1 - Ultrasonic Defatting

Freshly encapsulated capsules enter the first rotating tumble cage, which is partially submerged in the ultrasonic cleaning bath. High-frequency ultrasonic waves generate microscopic cavitation bubbles that dislodge surface oil, lubricant, and release agent from the capsule shell - without abrasive scrubbing that could damage soft gelatin surfaces.

• 1.5 kW ultrasonic generator
• 27L solvent bath capacity
• Gentle tumble action ensures all capsule surfaces are exposed

Stage 2 - Recirculating Spray Rinse

Capsules transfer into the second tumble cage where targeted spray nozzles rinse away loosened contaminants with clean solvent. The spray solution is continuously recirculated through the system, and rinse-stage solvent cascades back into the ultrasonic bath for reuse - reducing overall solvent consumption.

• 20L spray reservoir
• Recirculating pump for continuous flow
• Solvent cascading: spray → ultrasonic bath (single-direction flow)
• Full coverage spray nozzles aligned with capsule travel path

Stage 3 - Drain & Transfer
After rinsing, capsules continue through the tumble cage, allowing excess solvent to drain off before exiting the washing unit. Gravity drainage minimizes solvent carryover into the drying section.

Stage 4 - Tumble Drying
Washed capsules transfer into the drying tumble cage(s), where forced airflow evaporates residual cleaning solvent while the cage slowly rotates. Gentle tumbling prevents capsule sticking and ensures uniform drying across all surfaces.
• 1,800–2,000m³/h airflow per drying cage
• Adjustable rotation speed (0–20 RPM)
• Modular design - 1, 2, or more drying cages can be configured per line capacity

Dual-Stage Cleaning Consistency
Ultrasonic cavitation removes bonded surface oils, followed by a spray rinse that washes away dislodged particles. Together, the two stages deliver more thorough and consistent cleaning than immersion-only or spray-only methods - reducing surface residue variation between batches.

Solvent Cascading & Reduced Consumption
The Softgel Capsule Washing Machine uses a counter-flow solvent cascade: clean solvent enters at the spray rinse stage, flows back to the ultrasonic bath, and is discharged from there. This means spray-rinsed capsules always contact cleaner solvent, while the ultrasonic stage - which handles the heaviest contamination - uses the solvent at the end of its lifecycle. The result is effective cleaning with lower overall alcohol consumption than single-bath systems.

Explosion-Proof Safety Design
Operating with flammable cleaning solvents requires appropriate safety engineering:
• Explosion-proof touchscreen HMI and motor
• Electrical cabinet located outside the hazardous / classified area
• Pneumatic valve actuation - no electrical components in the solvent zone
• Solvent supply and return connections routed to external solvent storage

Automated & Controlled Operation

• Softgel Capsule Washing Machine used PLC control with touchscreen HMI for all process parameters
• Three-tier user access levels - operator, supervisor, administrator
• Adjustable tumble speed for different capsule sizes and formulations
• Continuous in-line operation matches encapsulation machine output

Proper post-encapsulation cleaning directly affects final softgel quality:

Washing Unit - Model TRXWJ

Drying Tumble Cage - Model TRGZ

Typical configuration: 1 washing unit + 2 drying cages per production line. Additional drying cages can be added for higher capacity or slower-drying formulations.

• Explosion-proof electrical components suitable for alcohol solvent processing areas
• SS316L product contact surfaces - corrosion-resistant, cleanable, pharmaceutical-grade
• SS304 frame and exterior - durable, easy to sanitize
• GMP-aligned hygienic design - smooth surfaces, drainable construction, tool-free access for cleaning
• Material Test Reports available for stainless steel components
• CE marking available for European market installations
• IQ/OQ documentation available on request for pharmaceutical validation

• Installation supervision and commissioning by qualified technicians
• Operator and maintenance training
• 12-month comprehensive warranty
• Process optimization support for different capsule sizes and formulations
• Compatible with all major softgel encapsulation machine brands

System configurations are tailored to your production capacity, and solvent type. Contact our engineering team to specify a washing and drying line matched to your softgel production requirements.

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