Tablet sorting machines

Tablet Sorting Machines: Market Dynamics and Growth Insights

Market Overview: The global market for tablet sorting machines is positioned for robust growth, propelled by the increasing demand for automation across various sectors. According to Research and Markets, the tablet market size reached approximately $76.8 billion in 2023, with projections indicating a rise to $188.4 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.5% during the period from 2023 to 2032. This surge is primarily driven by advancements in technology, the growing trend of remote work, and the rise in digital content consumption. The integration of tablet sorting machines within manufacturing processes enhances productivity and efficiency, catering to a diverse range of applications from pharmaceuticals to food processing. The adaptability of these machines to different operational needs significantly contributes to their market appeal.

Industry Insights: As industries increasingly adopt tablet sorting machines, consumer behavior is shifting towards a preference for automation that offers precision and speed. The demand for high-quality sorting solutions is evident in the projected growth of related segments, such as the automated food sorting machines market, which is expected to grow from $1.6 billion in 2023 to $2.6 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 6.1%, according to Global Industry Analysts. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce and the need for efficient inventory management are further driving the adoption of tablet sorting machines. Companies are leveraging these technologies to streamline their operations, reduce labor costs, and improve accuracy in sorting processes. As a result, major players in the market are focusing on innovation, enhancing the functionality of tablet sorting machines to meet evolving industry demands.

Types of tablet sorting machines

Tablet sorting machines function key components of any sorting system. But they exist in many varieties, each built for specific applications. The following list lays out some of those varieties:

• Type101:

  This sorting machine is characterized by its full-colour, high-resolution camera that can identify tablet shapes, sizes and colours. The HQC AI can classify Medicare pills, strip pills, and tablets accurately, achieving a minimum 98% accuracy rate. It can clear up to 1,500 tablets per minute and also has a video interface for remote debugging and real-time monitoring.

• Type 201:

  This table sorting conveyor system utilizes laser and multi-spectral imaging technology for detailed analysis. The machine can sort pills of different sizes and strip pills, including herbal strips, with a sorting capacity of 2,000 tablets per minute. It has a non-cognition sorting feature that prevents foreign objects in the medicine from passing through.

• Type301:

  This tablet sorting machine is an intelligent sorter powered by artificial intelligence. It can sort out more than ten types of medicine by scanning the pills with a built-in AI system that analyses the pill's colour, shape, and texture, categorizing them accurately. It can sort out approximately 3,000 pills in a minute.

• Type 401:

  This pill sorting system has a 3-in-1 anti-dust design, and its optical analysis technology provides a super-clear external sorting view. The transparent chute makes it visible to see how the pills are being sorted. This pill sorting combined with a chute system works remarkably well for all kinds of pills, herbal pills, compound pills, and decoction pieces. Sorting capacity: 5,000 pills/min.

• Type 501:

  This sorting table features a digital touch screen with the most user-friendly interface. This device is a multifunctional smart sorter powered by deep learning technology. It can recognize herbal medicines, decoction pills, and compound pills. The Touch AI Sorter is a herbal sorter developed for TCM(Herbal Medicine), and it can identify over 10 types of complex herbal medicines.

Specification and maintenance of tablet sorting machines

Specifications are key features and parameters related to tablet sorting machines. Common tablet sorter device specifications include the maximum capacity, power supply, sorting accuracy, sorting speed, table dimensions, material, and compatible tablet shapes and sizes.

• Maximum capacity: This refers to the maximum number of tablets the device can process in a given timeframe. Depending on the device's design and size, this can range from a few hundred to several thousand pills.
• Power supply: The tablet sorter machine can be powered by electricity, batteries, or hand power. Battery-powered pill sorters offer the advantage of portability and ease of use. In addition, the sorting machine should have a suitable power supply to function effectively. For example, Electric tablet sorting machines require an AC power supply of a certain voltage to operate, while pneumatic ones need compressed air.
• Sorting accuracy: Sorters have a certain level of accuracy. This means that the tablet sorting machine can correctly identify and separate the pills indicated in the manufacturer's instructions. For example, some machines may be able to accurately sort pills with a 95% success rate, while others may boast of 98% or even 99% accuracy.
• Sorting speed: This refers to how fast the pills can be sorted, typically measured in pills per hour or per minute. Some machines advance at a rate of 3000-6000 tablets/hour, while others sort up to 7200 tablets/hour. High-speed pill-sorting devices are primarily used in commercial settings, while slower models may be used at home.
• Tablet dimensions: Tablet sorting devices are manufactured to sort tablets within particular sizes and weights. The devices may not be able to effectively sort tablets that are either too large or too small.
• Material: Many pill sorters have been manufactured using medical-grade plastic, stainless steel, or aluminum. Sorting pills with the proper materials ensures durability, optimal performance, and resistance to corrosion and chemicals.
• Compatible tablet shapes: The sorter device can sort different shapes, such as oval, round, oblong, or rectangular pills, depending on its design. Additionally, incompatible tablets may get stuck in the device or not be sorted accurately.

To operate effectively and provide long-term services, tablet sorting machines need maintenance. Some maintenance practices include the following:

• Users should periodically examine the sorter to identify and remedy any early signs of damage, such as loose parts, worn-out components, or misalignments.
• Users should identify and sort out tablets with unique shapes so that the devices can quickly familiarize themselves with the sorting methods for maximum efficiency.
• Users should familiarise themselves with the sorting device manual to find specific maintenance instructions and guidelines relevant to the model in use. Also, the manual will assist the user in locating the devices maintenance care and services providers.
• When using the sorter to process tablets of varying colors, take time to separate the tablets by color first. This will enable the sorting to be done more accurately and efficiently.
• Users should calibrate the pill sorting machine's software and hardware periodically to maintain its accuracy and precision. Regular software updates should also be installed as they may improve performance and introduce new sorting features.

Application scenarios of tablet sorting machines

Pharmaceutical plants utilize tablet sorting machines in pill production lines to ensure that pills are appropriately sorted before packaging. Distilleries also use these devices to ensure proper sorting of tablets before bottling.

Pill sorting machines also come in handy for quality control departments. In such departments, tablet sifters are used to evaluate tablets in terms of weight, thickness, diameter, and strength. This is typically done during the sampling process where only a few tablets are sorted. Moreover, tablet sorting machines are useful in pharmacies and drug stores. In such settings, the machines are used when tablets are to be transferred to clients' bottles.

Another common use of the tablet sorter is in the research and development sector. Here, the machines are used during development and formulation studies in order to establish new tablet varieties and to assess the impact of various factors on tablet specifications.

Moreover, tablet sorting machines are used to sort tablets of different shapes and sizes in manufacturing industries such as the food industry and the supplement industry. These industries produce tablets in bulk and often bottleneck production lines with improperly sorted tablets. A tablet sorting machine can quickly and accurately sort these tablets so that they are ready for packaging, which can help streamline the production process and reduce waste.

Overall, tablet sorting machines are useful in any industry that produces tablets and pills and needs to improve efficiency, accuracy, and quality control in the sorting process.

How to choose tablet sorting machines

When choosing a tablet sorting machine, several key factors must be taken into consideration to ensure that the correct type of machine is selected for the intended purpose.

• Capacity and speed

  The capacity and speed of the tablet sorting machine are important because they determine how many tablets the machine can process in a given time. This is crucial for meeting production demands and ensuring efficient sorting. The production volume refers to the number of tablets that need to be sorted daily or weekly. Understanding the production volume helps in choosing a sorting machine that can handle the required amount without causing bottlenecks in the production process.

• Accuracy and precision

  When selecting a tablet sorting machine, it is crucial to examine the accuracy and precision of its sorting. This is essential for maintaining product quality and minimizing waste. Tablet sorting refers to the process of separating and identifying tablets based on their size, shape, and weight. Inaccurate sorting can result in defective tablets being packaged, which can harm reputation and expose the business to legal risks.

• Type of tablets

  It is essential to consider the kinds of tablets that can be sorted since not all tablet sorting machines can handle different varieties of tablets. For instance, some tablets may be of distinct sizes or shapes, while others may have special features that require particular sorting mechanisms. Choosing the proper sorting machine ensures that the tablets will be sorted properly and accurately.

• Quality control

  Quality control is an essential part of any production process, including tablet sorting. It ensures that the final product meets the necessary standards and is fit for consumption. Depending on the production process, tablet sorting happens at various points to remove defective tablets that do not conform to the set criteria.

Q&A

Q1 What are the recent trends in tablet sorting machines?

A1: The recent trends in tablet sorting machines include the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms for smarter sorting capabilities. Automation has been a significant trend, with more machines becoming fully automated to streamline production processes. Eco-friendly practices are essential in all industries, so tablet sorting machines are now manufactured with energy-efficient designs and processes to minimize waste.

Q2 What are the key factors stakeholders should consider when buying tablet sorting machines?

A2: Production capacity is one factor many stakeholders consider when choosing a tablet sorting machine. Pharmaceutical companies want devices with high production rates. The accuracy of a tablet-sorting machine is crucial, as even minor discrepancies can lead to significant consequences. An adaptive sorting mechanism is necessary so that different tablet shapes and sizes can be accommodated. Some companies may prefer automated devices while others want machines that are easy to operate manually.

Q3 How do tablet sorting machines work?

A3: Tablet sorting machines work by size, weight, and uniformity. The tablets are fed into the machine's funnel or hopper. As the tablets descend, they go through the tablet sorter. The tablet sorter is usually made of different-sized openings or meshes, weights, and counting devices. The tablets that fit the openings fall through, while those that do not are retained. The counted tablets are usually sorted into containers.

Q4 Can tablet sorting machines be upgraded with new technology?

A4: Yes, many modern sorting machines can be upgraded with new technology. Advancements in technology, such as better artificial intelligence sorting algorithms and more efficient motors, may improve the machine's efficiency and accuracy.

Q5 What are the benefits of using tablet sorting machines?

A5: Tablet sorting machines increase production efficiency by quickly soring large quantities of tablets simultaneously. When combined with automation, the machines reduce labor costs. The accuracy of tablet sorting machines mitigates the risk of adverse events related to tablet discrepancies.