Getting to Know Different Types of Counting Machines

- Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Imagine a tool that streamlines your tablet manufacturing process and ensures flawless pill counting - that's where tablet counters come to play. Mechanical devices often come in a variety of types to meet specific needs. So do the tablet counting machines. If you're searching for your first tablet counter or looking to optimize your operations, we're here to help.

tablet counting

This blog post will explore the main types of tablet counting machines. Also, it will provide you with a head-to-head comparison of these machines to guide your choice. And that's not all - we will explore iPharMachine's cutting-edge tablet counting machine specifications in different categories. So, you can have a rough idea of what types of tablet counting machines suit you best. Let's get started!

Different Types of Tablet Counting Machines

Based on the automation degrees, tablet counters can be classified into three types. They include manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic. Each has its own advantages and limitations.

1. Manual Tablet Counters

Manual tablet counters are the simplest tablet counting equipment. They are more of a handy tool for tablet counting. These pill counters are designed in the form of counting trays made of either plastic or stainless steel.

manual tablet counter manual metal capsule counter

Some pill counting trays come in a flat plate, while some feature a set number of evenly spaced holes. The former requires counting by a human operator using a spatula. The latter is more convenient since the operator only needs to count the pills sitting in the holes.

Manual tablet counters are suitable when a hands-on approach is preferred. While they require more manual effort and time, they can be cost-effective for businesses with lower production volumes.

Advantages of Manual Tablet Counters

  • Affordable for start-ups and even individuals
  • Suitable for small batches when automated devices are not available
  • Allows for visual confirmation of the pill count

Limitations of Manual Tablet Counters

  • Time-consuming counting process, especially when larger quantities are required
  • Prone to human error
  • Not practical for large-scale production

2. Semi-Automatic Tablet Counting Machines

As the name suggests, semi-automatic tablet counting machines feature a certain level of automation but still require manual operations. These machines are often available as a tabletop version. They can be a standalone device or integrated into an existing tablet production line.

semi automatic tablet counting machine semi-automatic tablet and capsule counting machine

When using a semi-automatic machine, you need to load tablets and place bottles in position manually. In terms of automated operations, these machines boast photoelectric sensors to perform counting. This speeds up the process compared to manual counting.

Semi-automatic tablet counting machines can significantly improve counting accuracy and efficiency. These machines are adjustable and adaptable to various medication shapes, sizes, and formulations. They are popular choices for small to mid-sized pharmaceutical operations.

Advantages of Semi-Automatic Tablet Counting Machines

  • Faster counting and packaging compared to manual tablet counters
  • Reduced risk of human error
  • Cost-effective solution for increasing productivity
  • Can handle different sizes and shapes of tablets

Limitations of Semi-Automatic Tablet Counting Machines

  • Higher initial investment than manual methods
  • Not fully automated, requiring a certain level of human intervention
  • Requires operator training to ensure proper monitoring and troubleshooting

3. Automatic Tablet Counting Machines

Fully automatic tablet counting machines are advanced devices. They are equipped with photoelectric sensors, conveyors, and other automated systems. These components ensure precise counts while minimizing errors.

automatic counting machine automatic tablet counting machine

An automatic tablet counting machine typically includes an easy-to-use touchscreen interface. This feature enables operators to set the counting parameters, monitor the counting process, and make adjustments as needed.

Automatic tablet counting machines are designed to handle the entire process, from tablet feeding and counting to bottle filling. The high automation level allows for counting and filling large quantities of tablets in a short time. So, they are ideal for high-volume pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Advantages of Automatic Tablet Counting Machines

  • High-speed counting and packaging for large production volumes
  • Exceptional counting accuracy and consistency
  • Minimal operator intervention required
  • Adaptable and compatible with different tablet sizes and shapes

Limitations of Automatic Tablet Counting Machines

  • Higher purchase and maintenance costs
  • Requires trained operators for setup, monitoring, and regular maintenance
  • More floor space is required to accommodate the machine

A Comparison of Three Types of Tablet Counting Machines

Here's a detailed comparison table for manual, semi-automatic, and automatic tablet counting machines.

Item

Manual Tablet Counter

Semi-Automatic Tablet Counting Machine

Automatic Tablet Counting Machine

Initial Investment

Low initial cost

Moderate initial investment

Higher initial investment for advanced technology

Output

Limited output due to manual process

Moderate output for small to medium batches

High throughput for large-scale production

Production Efficiency

Low

Moderate

High

Counting Accuracy

Moderate accuracy, prone to human error

High accuracy due to automated counting

Very high accuracy with advanced technology

Operator Involvement

Requires significant operator involvement

Requires operator interaction for setup and monitoring

Minimal operator involvement

Human Error Potential

High potential for human errors in counting

Moderate potential for operator errors

Very low potential for errors due to automation

Counting Method

Visual counting by operators

Automated counting by using photoelectric sensors

Advanced automated counting mechanisms

Process Complexity

Simple and straightforward

Moderate complexity due to human intervention

High complexity due to advanced automation

Quality Control

Dependent on the operator's skills

Dependent on manual monitoring and checks

Built-in quality-control mechanisms

Flexibility

Limited to specific tablet sizes and shapes

Moderate flexibility for various tablet types

High flexibility for different tablets

Packaging Integration

Manual transfer of counted tablets to packaging

Automatic dispensing into bottles

Fully automated dispensing, packaging, and conveying

Maintenance

Low maintenance requirements

Moderate maintenance due to moving parts

Moderate maintenance due to advanced systems

Specifications of Different Types of Tablet Counting Machines

If you clearly understand the types of tablet counting machines, there is one more important thing - the equipment specifications - to consider before making a purchase. By comprehending these details, you can confidently choose the right machine.

At iPharMachine, we offer diverse tablet counting solutions that can cover all your needs. Let's take a closer look at the specifications of these machines to help you make an informed decision.

Semi-Automatic Tablet Counting Machine Specifications

Model

CDR-3A

CDR-5A

YL-4

YL-4B

Output

800-1200 pcs/min

300-1500 pcs/min

2000-4000 pcs/min

1000-4000 pcs/min

Tablet Size

Ф5mm-25mm

Ф3mm-13mm

Ф6mm-23mm

Ф5.5mm-18mm

Capsule Size

#00-#5

#00-#5

#00-#4

#00-#5

Container Size

15-500ML

15-500ML

15-500ML

15-500ML

Weight

55kg

22kg

75kg

65kg

Dimensions

830x820x350mm

400x360x550mm

980x790x930mm

920x780x930mm

Automatic Tablet Counting Machine Specifications

Model

PBDS-8

PBDS-12

PBDS-16

PBDS-24

Output

10-50 bottles/min

20-55 bottles/min

60-100 bottles/min

80-150 bottles/min

Tablet Size

Ф5.5mm-22mm

Ф5.5mm-22mm

Ф5.5mm-22mm

Ф5.5mm-22mm

Capsule Size

#00-#4

#00-#4

#00-#4

#00-#4

Container Size

Dia.: 20-100mm
Height: 50-100mm

Dia.: 20-100mm
Height: 40-200mm

Dia.: 20-100mm
Height: 40-220mm

Dia.: 20-100mm
Height: 40-220mm

Weight

280kg

300kg

360kg

580kg

Dimensions

1600x1500x1600mm

1600x1500x1600mm

2600x1600x1600mm

4200x1800x1600mm

The Bottom Line

Different types of tablet counting machines will offer you a wide range of options for accurate counting and efficient production. Whether you're a medicine maker or a supplement producer, there will be one that suits your needs. Don't miss out on the benefits these machines bring. Choose the right one for your business and streamline your counting process today!

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From: Ikonremedies | Created on: 10/16/2023 6:37 AM

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