RMG is a rapid mixing granulator or high shear granulation equipment which is used for the wet granulation process of tablet manufacturing.
If you are not familiar with the basics of RMG then read the following article
In the current article we will only discuss one of the unique product safety features of the rapid mixing granulator which is the air purging system.
What Is Air Purge System
Air purge system is the installation of the air blow system for the safety and protection of the equipment and product.
The continuous outflow of the cleaned air at a defined pressure is known as air purging.
Installation Of Air Purge System In RMG
Air purging system in RMS is installed in the impeller and chopper blades of the rapid mixing granulator.
We are familiar that chopper blades of RMG are used to break down the large lumps during wet granulation and impeller blades are used for dry mixing and kneading.
Purpose Of Air Purging In RMG
The purpose of air purging in RMG is to protect the equipment during washing and both equipment and product during operation.
Protection During Operation
A continuous supply of cleaned air is purged through the impeller and chopper blades and the purpose of this air purging is to prevent the inflow of the powers or binder into the seals of impeller and chopper blades during dry mixing and kneading step of wet granulation.
It is commonly observed that if powder is entrapped in the seals or gaps between the impeller or chopper blades it results in production of black particles due to the friction and if these black particles are mixed in the product it will contaminate the product with black particles.
Another reason is that the accumulation of powder in these gaps or seals also reduces the life of equipment parts and its efficiency.
Air Purging During Washing
Washing of rapid mixing granulator with water is the routine activity for product change over.These are chances of water insertion into the deeper parts of shaft or motor and may harm these parts.
To overcome this issue a continuous air purging system remains on even during the washing process.
Precaution
- Air purging system should not be turned off during operation or washing.
- The air used for purging should be cleaned as per requirement of regulatory bodies as it has direct contact with the product.
Conclusion
Air purging system is an advanced protection system which is installed in the RMG to prevent the generation of black particles, product contamination and insertion of the powder or water into seals,shafts or motors of the rapid mixing granulator.