AboutMichael Anisfeld Expertise Disclaimer:
SORRY BUT I DO NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS RELATED TO: DRUG ACTIONS/INTERACTIONS, INTERNET DRUG PURCHASES, RESULTS OF DRUG TESTS, IDENTIFYING DRUGS (FOR WHICH YOUR LOCAL PHARMACIST IS THE BEST PERSON TO CONSULT).
My expertise is answering questions relating to pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality technologies, drug regulations and specifically GMP requirements
Experience
Past/Present Clients UN agencies (UNFPA, UNICEF, UNIDO)
Governments (Australia, Canada, India, United Kingdon, United States
Companies - over 200 companies in 37 countries
Question Hi! We are trying to place powdered nutritional supplements into a 3 or 4 sided
pouch. It is a fine powder, very similar to pharmaceutical powder which is why
I'm asking you this question. (Hope you can help)
First, there's the problem with obtaining a good seal, and also in placing the
powder into the packet so that it doesn't splash up into the seal, making it not
seal properly. We are measuring between 1 and 30 grams, typically around the 3
- 6 gram area. I have researched as best I can and seems like we need a vertical
fill form seal machine with a powder auger feed system. Any other ideas? Or
can you direct me in a different direction?
Thank you in advance for your time!
Answer Vicki:
Many moons ago I used to run a powder fill line for pharmaceutical products, and will share some thoughts.
Divorce in your mind the sealing issues from the filling issues.
a. Sealing: almost always the sealing problems are related to the laminate of your pouch, the machinery settings or the ambient temperature and humidity. Try filling bags at the speed you desire without any powder present. If you get a poor seals, then for sure you have a laminate problem. Either select a better laminate (the laminate makers are the best guide to what you need in your circumstances), or slow the fill speed, or get a new machine.
b. Filling: if you get powder "splash" in the seal area, then you need to redesign the powder spout at the point of fill.
