Empty Capsule Sorter

An Empty Capsule Sorter (also called Empty Capsule Sorting Machine, Capsule Sorter, or sometimes integrated with polishers/elevators) is a specialized piece of equipment used primarily in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries during capsule production.

It automatically detects and removes defective or problematic capsules from the production line to ensure only high-quality, properly filled capsules proceed to further processing (like polishing, weighing, packaging, or inspection). This improves product quality, reduces waste, prevents issues in downstream equipment, and helps meet strict GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards.

Empty Capsule Sorter Video

Two Common Types / Placement in the Line

1. Pre-filling sorter (often called Empty Capsule Sorter Elevator or Sorter before filling):

   • Installed before the capsule filling machine.

   • Feeds only good-quality empty capsule shells into the filler hopper.

   • Removes defective empty capsules (e.g., wrong size, damaged, cracked, deformed, or diametrically incorrect ones) using mechanical sorting plates, sieves, or channels.

   • Ensures smooth, uninterrupted operation of the automatic capsule filling machine.

2. Post-filling sorter (most common “Empty Capsule Sorter” reference):

   • Connected to the output of an automatic or semi-automatic capsule filling machine.

   • Separates empty, partially filled, or defective capsules from properly filled ones.

   • Removes:

     • Completely empty capsules

     • Loose caps or bodies (separated halves)

     • Lightweight / under-filled capsules

     • Chipped, cracked, broken fragments, or loose pieces

   • This ensures only correctly filled and intact capsules move forward.

How It Typically Works

• Capsules from the filler are fed into the sorter.

• Common sorting mechanism: Compressed air (often using Bernoulli’s principle for suction/lift) blows lighter/defective items (empty or fragments) into a separate reject chute or collector, while heavier, properly filled capsules continue straight through gravity or path.

• Some models use weight-based detection, mechanical gates, rotating discs with calibrated holes, or combined air + vibration.

• Many are compact, adjustable in height/angle, and connect directly to capsule fillers or polishers.

• No electricity needed in some designs (air-operated only), making them simple and low-maintenance.

Typical Features & Benefits

• High speed: Up to 200,000–300,000+ capsules/hour (depending on model).

• Compact footprint, easy integration into existing lines.

• Contact parts usually in stainless steel (e.g., 316L for pharma-grade).

• Handles various capsule sizes (000 to 5) and types (gelatin, vegetarian, powder/granule/pellet filled).

• Often combined with capsule polishers to clean powder residue while sorting.

Salient Features of Empty Capsule Sorter

• Removes all empty capsules and checks for loose caps or loose body

• Compact dimensions

• Simple sorting mechanism

• Ensures only filled capsules move further

• Can be accommodated in the capsule filling line easily

• Easy operation and maintenance

Technical Specification of Empty Capsule Sorter

* Power voltage can be adjusted as per customer’s domestic power voltage requirements.

* Rights of technical improvements & modification reserved.
* Illustrations & dimensions are shown for information purpose only.