When it comes to manufacturing tablets, a single-station tablet press machine is a staple in product research and development and small-batch runs. Often used by universities and laboratories, single-station tablet press machines are beneficial for when material properties such as flowability, compressibility, and ejection criteria need to be determined. Designed for precision and durability, the Stokes Model 511 Tablet Press is a single-punch tableting machine that is perfect for the development or refinement of products. To fully leverage the features of the Stokes Model 511 Tablet Press, operators and researchers alike should understand the machine components and how it functions; this knowledge of the tablet press will ultimately lead to optimized performance from the machine, resulting in efficiency and possible avoidance of interruptions.
Manufactured in the U.S., the Stokes Model 511 Tablet Press is a single-station machine that can come with custom tooling. It makes tablets by compressing powder formulation in a single die between an upper punch and lower punch. Optimal for research and development (R&D) settings, the Stokes Model 511 can assist with understanding your tableting formulation.
Rather than conduct trial-and-error testing through full-scale production and risk the wastage of product, the Stokes Model 511 simplifies the collection and analysis of formulation data, which is so vital for the product research and development process. With its ability to gain insights into the compaction and compression characteristics of a formulation, manufacturers can find any tableting defects before committing to full-scale production.
With its precision and adaptability, this tablet press machine supports efficient formulation testing, ensuring products meet quality standards while minimizing the risk of production challenges.
The following are specifications for the Stokes Model 511 Tablet Press:
Stokes Model 511 Tablet Press Specifications |
|
Maximum Depth of Fill (Deep Fill Option) |
1” |
Maximum Diameter of Tablet |
½” |
Maximum Pressure from Above |
1.5 tons |
Maximum Pressure From Below |
0 |
Upper Punch Stroke |
1 ½” |
Lower Punch Stroke |
1” |
Upper Punch Die Entrance |
1/16” to 13/32” |
Drive Motor Horsepower |
1/3 |
Drive Motor Speed Range |
40 to 75 Tablets Per Minute |
Upper Punch Shank Diameter |
0.375” |
Upper Punch Length (Overall) |
1.625” |
Lower Punch Shank Diameter |
0.375” |
Lower Punch Length (Overall) |
1.062” |
Die Depth |
1.182” |
In order to achieve proper machine operation, maintenance, and optimal performance, it’s important to understand the important components of the Stokes Model 511 Tablet Press. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key parts of this machine:
The Frame and Base stabilize the tablet press machine, providing a solid foundation. Specifically engineered for durability, the Frame and Base minimize vibration, which aids in maintaining precision in tablet production.
The Die Table contains the Die, which is the mold that shapes the formulation into a tablet. This is done by bringing the Upper Punch and Lower Punch together inside the Die to compress the formulation into a tablet. For consistent tablet production quality and to avoid any potential issues, it is critical to make sure that the Die Table is properly installed and adjusted.
The Upper Punch moves downward to apply pressure to the formulation. The Lower Punch supports the formulation from below and determines tablet weight and thickness. Both punches need to be properly installed and adjusted to ensure even compression and to prevent their potential damage by colliding with the Die.
The Feed Shoe contains the powdered formulation and distributes it into the Die’s cavity as the machine operates. It must be correctly positioned on the Die Table for uniform filling, which results in consistent tablet weight and content uniformity. Regularly cleaning and maintaining this part will prevent material build-up, which could end up damaging the Feed Shoe.
The Drive Motor powers the machine and the movement of the Upper Punch and Lower Punch. By adjusting the speed range of the Drive Motor, you can achieve a production between 40 to 75 tablets per minute. This adjustment also allows optimized production based on specific requirements of the formulation.
The CS-100 Control System monitors compression force during production. With the feature of providing real-time feedback on press performance, it helps operators maintain consistent tablet quality. Other features include adjustable limit settings and alarms that prevent over-compression and protect the machine from damage.
The Stokes Model 511 Tablet Press is a versatile tablet compression machine with features designed to support efficient and consistent tablet production. Here are some of the features and benefits:
The tablet press machine can be operated manually or in automated mode; manual operation is useful for testing and marking adjustments, while automated operation allows for consistent tablet production at a higher speed.
The Stokes Model 511’s compact size can be beneficial for work environments with limited space. Despite its small footprint, it reliably performs well for various applications.
Mentioned above as a key component, the control system monitors compression force while offering alarms and shutdown features to prevent operational issues.
The Stokes Model 511 has precise controls for adjusting tablet weight, thickness, and compression. Depending on the formulation and tablet design, fill depth and punch alignment can be customized.
The tablet press parts are easy to access, making lubrication, cleaning, and general maintenance straightforward. The door panels surrounding the machine can be easily removed, in case the tablet press requires a deep cleaning.
The positive pull-down system ensures the stationary lower punch returns to its exact position after each tablet is ejected. This supports consistent tablet production and maintains uniform quality across batches.
These capabilities make this Stokes tablet press suitable for a wide range of applications, including research & development and small-scale production. Its versatility and dependability enable operators to meet individual industrial requirements while remaining efficient.
If operators or engineers are looking to attain smooth operation, efficient production, and consistent tablet quality with the Stokes Model 511 Tablet Press, they must be prepared to become familiar with the machine’s components. There are several positives that come from learning about this tablet press machine’s key parts.
Being familiar with the machine’s components can help operators make precise adjustments to parameters such as punch alignment, compression force, and fill depth. This ensures that the tablet press operates efficiently and minimizes issues like variations in tablet weight or defects like capping and lamination.
To make it easier to identify and address issues quickly, knowledge of the machine’s parts and how they function can potentially reduce downtime. To help avoid machine breaking down, operators can simply perform routine checks and simple fixes, such as tightening loose parts or re-aligning the punches and die, without external support.
A good understanding of the machine’s parts can lead to safe operation and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries. Operators can become aware of areas in the machine that could result in injuries while at the same time helping prevent machine damage.
When encountering potential issues with the tablet press, knowing the machine’s components can help determine the cause of a certain problem. For example, a build-up of powder in the Feed Shoe or misalignment of the Die Table can be fixed more efficiently if the operator has a clear understanding of the machine parts.
Comprehensive understanding of the machine’s components can assist in the training of new operators, making sure that they can confidently operate and maintain the press. Experienced operators can share their skills with colleagues, creating a collaborative and knowledgeable team environment.
When you understand the Stokes Model 511 parts, you can maximize the machine’s potential and maintain high production standards while reducing operational challenges. This knowledge is a valuable asset in ensuring consistent, efficient, and safe tablet production.
Optimal tablet press operation and production requires a knowledge of the tablet press machine’s parts. The Stokes Model 511 meets the needs of both small-scale manufacturing and research and development thanks to its accurate controls and flexible architecture. In addition to ensuring constant tablet quality, familiarity with the machine’s features, such as the CS-100 Control System, positive pull-down system, and changeable adjustment settings, also minimizes downtime and safety hazards.
Operators and engineers may maximize this tablet compression machine’s performance, reduce disruptions, and boost overall productivity by becoming proficient in its operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The Stokes Model 511 is still a reliable option for getting excellent results whether it is used in production or research.
Ready to get the most out of the Stokes Model 511 Tablet Press? Contact Stokes today to learn more about this versatile machine and how we can support your understanding of its essential components. Our team is here to help you achieve efficient, consistent, and safe tablet production. Reach out now to discover how the Stokes Model 511 can meet your manufacturing needs.
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