The Different Types Of Tablet Coating Machines

1. Introduction

In the pharmaceutical industry, tablet coating machines play a vital role in improving the performance, appearance, and stability of oral dosage forms. Tablet coating is not merely about aesthetics—it enhances taste masking, protection from moisture and light, and enables controlled or delayed drug release.

Modern tablet coating equipment combines precision engineering with automated control systems to ensure consistent coating quality, reduced material waste, and compliance with strict regulatory standards. Understanding the different types of tablet coating machines helps manufacturers choose the right system for their production needs.

2.Key Processes & Types Of Tablet Coating Machines

2.1 Sugar Coating

One of the oldest methods. It uses multiple syrup layers (with sugar/colorants) to mask tastes and improve appearance.

It has 5 steps (sealing → sub-coating → smoothing → coloring → polishing) but is slow and can increase tablet weight by up to 50%.

2.2 Film Coating

The most common modern method. A thin polymer film is sprayed onto tablets as they spin in a coating drum (part of tablet coating equipment).

It’s faster, slimmer, and more useful than sugar coating—it can block moisture, add color, or control drug release. Common materials: HPMC, ethylcellulose.

2.3 Active Drug Layering

Uses actual medicine (API) as coating. A coating pan or fluidized bed (coating equipment) sprays API onto an inert core/tablet.

Great for multi-layer pills (e.g., fast + slow release) and small forms (pellets, granules).

2.4 Extended Release (ER) Coating

Uses polymers to slow drug dissolution. It protects drugs from stomach acid and controls absorption—so you take fewer pills (e.g., 1/day instead of 3).

Common materials: ethylcellulose, Eudragit® polymers.

3. Types Of Tablet Coating Machines

3.1 By Working Principle

3.1.1 Traditional Coating Pan

Also called a traditional pill coating machine. It has a rotating stainless steel pan. Tablets tumble inside while coating is sprayed manually/semi-automatically.

Good for sugar coating and small-scale work, but poor at controlling airflow/spray uniformity.

3.1.2 Perforated Coating Pan

Modern standard for large-scale production. A perforated drum spins tablets; automated sprays + hot air ensure even coating.

Fast, consistent, and scalable—ideal for film coating.

3.1.3 Fluidized Bed Coater

Uses high-speed air to suspend tablets/particles. Coating sprays from below for precise thickness control.

Versatile: handles granulation, drying, and coating in one unit. Great for pellets/granules.

3.2 By Application Scale

3.2.1 Pilot-Scale Coating Machines

For R&D and small clinical batches (1–10 kg). Simulates industrial conditions to test scalability.

3.2.2 Production-Scale Coating Machines

Industrial tablet coating equipment for high-volume work (50–500+ kg/batch). Fully automated for continuous production.

4. Summary

Tablet coating is a critical step in modern pharmaceutical manufacturing, influencing not only the appearance but also the performance of the final dosage form.
By understanding the types of coating processes and tablet coating machines, manufacturers can make informed decisions that improve product quality, efficiency, and compliance.

Whether it’s a traditional pan, perforated drum, or fluidized bed coater, the right coating equipment ensures uniform coverage, minimal waste, and consistent results across every batch. Reach out to our pharmaceutical experts for a free consultation to get a tailored solution that optimizes your coating process, cuts costs and ensures compliance!

5. FAQ

What are the three types of tablet coating?
The three main types are sugar coating, film coating, and enteric or functional coating (which includes extended-release and delayed-release types).

Which equipment is used for tablet coating?
Common equipment includes standard coating pans, perforated drum coaters, and fluidized bed coaters, depending on the coating process and production scale.

What are the different types of coaters?
Coaters are generally classified by working principle (pan vs. fluidized bed) and application scale (lab, pilot, or production). Each type offers unique advantages in coating efficiency and control.