Validating a numerical simulation of the ConsiGma® semi-continuous
tablet coating process
Abstract
GEA developed a semi-continuous tablet coater which can be integrated
into a continuous tableting line, accelerating the switch from
traditional batch production to the continuous mode of operation.
Process understanding is the key element for process control and is
important for continuous manufacturing. Computational tools can improve
the fundamental understanding and process performance, especially those
related to new processes, such as continuous tablet coating where
process mechanics remain unclear. In the last years, Computational Fluid
Dynamics and the Discrete Element Method have increasingly been applied
in the pharmaceutical industry. The goal of this work was to develop and
validate a high-fidelity CFD-DEM simulation model of the tablet coating
process in the GEA ConsiGma® coater. Simulation results for the tablet
movement, coating quality, and heat and mass transfer during the coating
process were validated and compared to the experimental outcomes. The
experimental and simulation results agreed well on all accounts
measured.