The influence of operational variables on mean size and size distribution of spheroids produced by rotary spheronization using teardrop studs

Abstract

The rotary processor can be used for single step spheroid production directly from powder with multiple formulation and process variables involved. In this study, a frictional base plate with teardrop studs was used. Four selected independent variables, base plate rotational speed during liquid addition (A), spray rate of water (B), total amount of water added (C) and base plate rotational speed during the tumbling stage (D), were put into an orthogonal design with three levels for each variable. Mean spheroid size and size distribution were used as the response variables to evaluate the effect of these independent variables. The variables C and D were identified as more important among the four variables and should be at optimal levels for producing good quality spheroids. © 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.