The Granulation Mechanism of a Tapered Fluidized Bed [Translated]^†

Abstract

Fluidized bed granulation is used widely in the manufacturing processes for solid drug products. It is known that optimum granulation conditions are not determined simply by the complexity of the operation factors. This study investigated the effects of manufacturing factors on the physical properties of granules in order to understand the granulation mechanism. Experiment results indicated that granule moisture content determines average particle size. A granulation model is proposed in accordance with a theoretical consideration of the physical properties of granules. The model was found to simulate granule density and bulk density. Also discussed is the scale effect of the experimental apparatus on the physical properties of granules.

^† This report was originally printed in J. Soc. Powder Technology, Japan. 34(8), 586-591 (1997) in Japanese, before being translated into English by KONA Editorial Committee with the permission of the editorial committee of the Soc. Powder Technology, Japan.