Experimental & pilot-scale soft capsule manufacturing lines for pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries
Precision-engineered experimental soft capsule machines
Our experimental soft capsule production equipment is designed for R&D laboratories, pilot plants, and small-to-medium batch manufacturing. The machine utilizes the reciprocating die-cylinder method to produce high-quality soft gelatin and HPMC capsules in various shapes and sizes.
Equipped with advanced servo-driven systems and a user-friendly HMI interface, our equipment delivers consistent capsule weight, uniform sealing, and precise dosing – Even for the most sensitive formulations including probiotics, essential oils, and suspensions.
Ideal for pharmaceutical research institutes, contract manufacturers, and companies developing proprietary soft capsule formulations, our machines bridge the gap between laboratory-scale testing and full commercial production.
6-step soft capsule manufacturing process
Medical-grade gelatin (or HPMC) is melted in a thermostatic tank at 55-65°C. Colorants, opacifiers, and plasticizers are added to achieve the desired capsule appearance and flexibility.
The twin die rolls are heated to 35-45°C using circulating thermal oil. The soft gelatin ribbon is formed as it passes between the heated dies, which control the capsule shape and size.
As the die rolls rotate, capsule pockets are formed and simultaneously filled with the product formulation through precision dosing pumps. Filling accuracy of ±2% is achieved with servo-controlled gear pumps.
The capsule is sealed by the converging dies using adjustable pressure (0.3-0.8 MPa). The sealing depth and width are precisely controlled to ensure leak-proof capsules without compromising appearance.
Formed and sealed capsules pass through a cooling tunnel (15-25°C) to set the gelatin. Individual capsules are then automatically cut, ejected, and conveyed to the collection tray.
Emerging capsules are inspected for weight, sealing integrity, and appearance. Capsules are then dried on trays in a controlled humidity room (25°C, 30% RH) for 4-6 hours to reach final moisture equilibrium.
Comprehensive parameters for experimental/pilot-scale model
| Parameter | Specification | Optional Upgrades |
|---|---|---|
| Production Capacity | 100-300 capsules/min | Up to 500 capsules/min (production model) |
| Capsule Shape | Oval, oblong, round, cylindrical, custom | Special shapes (heart, fish, softgel) |
| Capsule Size Range | 5-20mm (length), custom sizes | Mini-capsules (3-8mm), large capsules |
| Filling Accuracy | ±2% (typical) | ±1% (high-precision pump) |
| Power Supply | 380V/50Hz, 3-phase | 220V/60Hz, 415V/50Hz |
| Installed Power | 4.5 kW | 6.0 kW (with vacuum system) |
| Machine Dimensions | 1500×800×1200 mm | Custom dimensions for lab layouts |
| Weight | 650 kg | 800 kg (with auxiliary equipment) |
| Compressed Air | 0.5-0.7 MPa, 150 L/min | Oil-free compressor included |
| Noise Level | ≤0 dB(A) | ≥72 dB(A) (soundproof enclosure) |
| Control System | 7-inch touch screen HMI | 10-inch HMI with recipe management |
| Capsule Material | Gelatin, HPMC, pullulan | Special coatings available |
* Custom configurations available for specific formulations and production requirements. Contact our engineering team for tailored solutions.
Real shots of our experimental soft capsule production machines
Engineered for precision and versatility
Produce oval, oblong, round, and cylindrical capsules with a single die set. Quick-change tooling for different shapes.
Suitable for oils, suspensions, pastes, and semi-solids. Ideal for sensitive ingredients like probiotics and essential oils.
Variable speed control allows fine-tuning of production rate from 100 to 300 capsules/min for optimal quality.
316L stainless steel contact parts, polished surfaces, and CIP-compatible design meeting pharmaceutical standards.
Operates with both gelatin and plant-based HPMC capsule formulations for vegetarian and halal/ kosher markets.
7-inch touch screen with recipe storage, real-time monitoring, alarm logging, and production data export.
Modular die roll assembly with quick-release mechanism. Tool-free cleaning and rapid die changeover in under 15 minutes.
Small batch sizes (500-5,000 capsules) ideal for formulation development, clinical trials, and market testing.
Widely used across pharmaceutical and health industries
Omega-3 fish oil, vitamin E, clindamycin, and other oil-based or suspension medications.
CoQ10, evening primrose oil, flaxseed oil, and other health supplements requiring oxygen-sensitive formulations.
Collagen, ceramides, and beauty supplements in appealing capsule shapes and colors.
Fish oil and nutritional supplements for pets and livestock in various sizes and flavors.
Small-batch production for formulation development, stability testing, and Phase I-II clinical trials.
Encapsulated flavors, colorants, and nutritional additives for the food and beverage industry.
Your trusted partner in soft capsule technology
We provide free on-site installation, debugging, and commissioning for all equipment. Sufficient spare parts, tools, and accessories are included in every shipment.
All products include a 12-month warranty. During the warranty period, technical services, equipment repairs, and parts replacement are covered under our three guarantees policy.
Our commitment doesn't end at delivery. We offer lifelong technical support, spare parts supply, and software updates for all customers.
We provide free process trials, operator training, and maintenance training at our factory. Our experienced engineers also support process layout design for your facility.
A: Our soft capsule equipment supports medical-grade gelatin, HPMC (plant-based), and pullulan capsules. The machine parameters are fully adjustable for each material type.
A: Yes. By changing the die rolls, you can produce oval, oblong, round, cylindrical, and custom-shaped capsules. Die changeover takes less than 15 minutes.
A: The minimum practical batch size is approximately 500 capsules, making this machine ideal for R&D, pilot production, and small clinical batches.
A: Yes, free on-site installation, commissioning, and operator training are included. We also offer free process trials at our factory before equipment delivery.
A: All factory products are packed in reinforced wooden crates with anti-humidity materials to ensure safe delivery by sea or air.
Contact our sales team for a free consultation, customized quote, process trial, and factory tour arrangement.
No.999 Husong Rd., Songjiang District, Shanghai, China
+8613761035942 | vchiang@shyoho.com