Are all the contacted parts stainless steel? Is it SUS316?
No. The hopper is currently 304 stainless steel, although we are migrating to plastic. The boot is made from brass, again we are migrating over to plastic boots. The tooling is made from the steel grade that you have selected and can not be made from stainless steel as it is too soft. The ejection tray is made from steel.
Are parts interchangeable with the rest of the TDP range?
Yes. Some of them. There are a number of parts that are able to be changed between the different TDP ranges. This includes the tooling, a lot of the upper and lower drift pin assemblies and the boot bolt and spring.
Are the TDPs CE certified?
No, the TDPs are not CE certified. To acquire this certification, they would have to be installed in a protective cage, which we do not provide.
Are there any services included in the warranty period?
No, sorry the warranty is for parts only. If you need your machine serviced and you do not feel confident to do this, then we would be happy to do so. This is, however, a charge for service. More information on this can be found here: Services | Why Choose LFA Tablet Presses?
Are you able to come and service my TDP 6s when it's needed, or will you guide me on how to service the machine myself?
Yes, we can come and service your TDP 6s if you would like us to. It is, however, a service that we charge for so you may find that we are not the best people to do it. Here is a link to the costs involved:Services | Why Choose LFA Tablet Presses?
We are also happy to guide you through the service and maintenance of your machine. We do this in two main ways:
The manual, a copy of which can be found here:TDP 6s Desktop Tablet Press User Manual
And, with online videos. All of the TDP 6s videos can be found here:Desktop Tablet Press Videos
Based on LFA's website, the max tablet diameter of TDP 6s is 22 mm. Is the only one thing I have to do just order 22 mm tooling? Should anything else be changed?
According to LFA's website, the max tablet diameter of the TDP 6s is 22 mm. Do I just need to order 22 mm tooling for this, or will anything else need to be changed?
Can I come to one of your facilities for training with my own formula?
Yes, you can, but there are a number of requirements that we need to fulfill first.
You will need to contact our team and provide them with a copy of all of your MSDSs for all of the components of your mix.
We need to have a good understanding of your business and the challenges you are facing.
You will also need to book an appointment with the office that you would like to visit.
For more information please get in contact with the team: https://www.lfatabletpresses.com/contact
Can I get support from LFA if I face problems with making tablets?
Yes. Very easily.
We have free lifetime technical support for all machines sold by LFA.
Just contact us with your machine serial number and we would be happy to help you with any problems.
Can I make food grade products on this machine? Can I also make pharmaceutical-grade tablets?
Yes, the contact surfaces are all food and pharmaceutical safe.
They are made from a combination of, stainless steel, chrome coated brass and the steel used for your tooling (often S7).
As such they are all compliant with most rules for food or pharma manufacturing.
We strongly recommend that you check your local laws as these do vary from state to state and country to country. If in doubt reach out, and we will be happy to find out.
Can I order custom tooling?
Yes. You can order custom tooling here
Can I use multi-tip tooling with the TDP 6s?
Yes. We are able to make multi-tip tooling for the TDP 6s.
However, multi-tip tooling can be expensive. If you are looking to produce high numbers of tablets, then we recommend purchasing an RTP Rotary Tablet Press.
Can the machine be modified to allow for pre-pressure?
No. It is not possible for a TDP 6s to be modified to have a pre-pressure function. This is because it is a simple up and down motion. If you think that you need a pre-pressure function on your press, then you will need an RTP Rotary Tablet Press. For more information on this, please do reach out to the team.
Can the TDP 5 motor be placed on my TDP 6s for greater output?
No, we do not recommend this. The TDP 6s has been specifically developed for the longer dwell time and higher punch pressure. Changing the motor on the TDP 6s for the motor on the TDP 5 will not make it faster but instead only make your machine less effective.
Can this machine be left without an operator?
No.
LFA does not recommend leaving any of its machines unattended without an operator ever. Even if they only need to step away for a short amount of time, the operator should turn off the machine.
This will avoid damaging it in the event that there is a jam and the operator is not there to switch it off.
Can you change the speed on a TDP 6s? Can the machine be modified so that it has a variable speed control?
No. The TDP 6s that LFA sells does not come with a variable speed controller.
It is possible to fit one as an aftermarket customization but this is not a service that LFA offers. It is important that this is only done by a qualified electrician.
Can you set this machine up for an custom mg tablet weight?
Yes, the TDP and RTP range all have a weight adjustment for it.
on the TDP it is the bottom of the two cogs on the lower drift pin assembly.
Here is a link to a video showing you how to tune up the TDP 5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dTscUdRJzQ
Here is a link to a video showing you how to tune up the RTP 9 or the RTP 118: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJFt5AFJ1hw
It is important to know that the exact weight of each tablet will vary from tablet to tablet.
A well-homogenized mix that has a consistent granule size should be able to achieve an accuracy of +/- 3% or less.
Do all TDPs and the VICE take the same tooling?
It is important to know two things:
Firstly, TDP Universal Tooling came into effect in 2018. Machines brought from LFA before this time may be slightly different sizes. We always recommend checking the size of your tooling before placing your order.
Secondly, a number of companies make unofficial TDP tablet presses.
They do not always conform to the same sizes, tolerance or quality as LFA TDPs or tooling. If you bought your press from someone else other than LFA, we are not able to guarantee that our tooling will fit.
Do I get a die with the machine or do I have to buy it separately? Which size/shape are they?
Yes, you do get a die with the machine. Every machine comes fitted with a die.
If you would like you can get this customised with your logo or lettering but it takes 6-8 weeks.
Or, we have a standard 8mm round, bevelled edge with breaker installed in the machines in stock.
Do I need a license to own this machine?
That depends on the country you are located in.
In the EU and UK no. You do not need anything to buy the press.
In the USA we have to file a piece of paperwork with the federal government when we sell the press.
We, however, do all of this paperwork for you and do not need to do anything.
The only countries that require a license, as far as we know, are Canada and Australia.
If you are located in Canada then we recommend that you contact Health Canada prior to placing your order. Details regarding the import process can be found at the following link: Importing and registering pill presses (designated devices)
The document you need to fill out and file for a purchase originating in Australia is called a B712. This can be found at: https://www.abf.gov.au/form-listing/forms/b712.pdf. If you would like to speak with one of our team about this, then please get in contact.
Do you have any suggestions for a better Ejection Guard/Safety guard?
Yes, we would recommend installing the entire press inside a cage or perspex box.
Do you supply a spanner wrench to adjust the driveshaft nuts?
Tools are not supplied to use on the TDP 6s press.
Does the machine need to be bolted down? Does it come with bolts to fix it to a surface?
No, it does not need to be bolted into position but we do recommend it. If the machine is not secured in position by bolts or another method then it is more likely to shake a bolt loose, resulting in varying tablet weights. On top of this, the vibrations are likely to make the machine sound louder.
The machine does not come with bolts because we do not know the thickness of your surface.
Does the TDP 6s use the same tooling as a rotary press?
No. The TDP 6s uses what is known as TDP Universal Tooling™ this is a type of single station tooling that is used in all of the TDP range.
Rotary press tooling has a very different construction and can not be used in TDP presses.
Does this machine come with a manual?
Yes. We have a basic manual for the TDP 6s and we are currently working to bring out improved versions. A link to the manual can be found here: TDP 6s Desktop Tablet Press User Manual
If you have any feedback on the manual or think that something should be added then we would love to hear from you.
¿Que entrenamiento proveéis con esta máquina?
Podemos entrenarle en nuestra oficina en Bicester. Durará más o menos un día.
How can I figure out if my formula requires the pressure of the TDP 6s?
You would have to test it on a machine that is able to give you precise pressure readouts. These are available but are not something that LFA supplies.
How do I set the pressure correctly?
How do you adjust the pressure on a TDP 6s? How is it easier on a TDP 6s than other TDP presses?
The pressure on the TDP 6s is adjusted through the thumb screw on the eccentric sheave strap at the top of the machine. If you adjust this in a downwards motion then you will increase the punch pressure, if you adjust it in an upwards direction then you will decrease the pressure.
This is easier than on other TDP presses as you do not need any tools at all to perform this adjustment. It can be done by hand in moments.
A video on how to do this can be found here: How to Adjust the TDP 6s Tablet Press Punch Pressure
How do you move/install this machine?
There is a bolt eyelet on the top of the machine.
We recommend using an engine hoist to lift the machine off the shipping crate and into the position that you are going to use it in.
How long does maintenance take on the TDP 6s?
Maintenance on the TDP 6s is very short. There are five grease nipples that need grease pumped into them and cogs that need grease applied to them. This can be done in 10-15 mins.
We also recommend cleaning your press at the end of every production run and removing the tooling to store it in oil. This can take about 1 hour but will dramatically extend the life of your machine.
More information on maintenance for your TDP 5 can be found here:
Cleaning Matrix - TDP 6s
TDP 6s Lubrication Schedule
How often do I need to grease the machine, and which parts particularly of the machine should I lubricate?
We would recommend cleaning down the machine and leaving it re-greased after every use. This will ensure the longest life possible.
Here is a video on cleaning the TDP 5.
When greasing the machine, avoid getting any grease near the tooling or pressing surfaces, as this will get into your tablets and affect your powders.
Grease the top cam well, then apply a small amount to the upper drift pin assembly and the lower timing rod.
With regards to the types of grease or lubricant that we would recommend, this will depend on your product. If you are making food grade products, then you would want to use a grease that was NSF approved. If you are making a very caustic sodium based product, however, then you would need to use a product that is resistant to salts.
More information on greasing your machine can be found here: TDP 5 Lubrication Schedule
¿Como de rápido se pagan las prensas por sí solas?
Muy rápido. El promedio de coste por tableta cuando se hacen con un productor contratado es de £0.002 - £0.005 dependiendo de cual sea la dificultad al prensarlas y el tamaño del lote. Esto significa que una TDP 5 se pagará por sí sola con tan solo 380,000 tabletas. Con 5000 tabletas por hora eso es solo 76 horas.
I am just starting out and I am not sure which machine I should order - the TDP 0, TDP 1.5, TDP 5 or TDP 6s?
I have the old style TDP 6s and I need to buy new tooling for it - are you still able to provide me with the tooling or did you discontinue the production fully? Do you hold some in stock?
Yes, we do still support manufacturing tooling for the TDP 6s, however we no longer hold any stock items of the tooling. If you need to order TDP tooling of any dimensions please do reach out to the team and let them know what you are looking for. We would be happy to help.
More information on TDP tooling can be found here: TDP Tooling | Punch & Dies for TDP Pill Presses
I want to make a range of supplements, does this machine make tablets and capsules?
No. This machine is only able to make tablets.
It is able to make different size and shape tablets including capsule shape but this is a tablet, not a capsule.
I want to make tablets without any binder, is this machine the right machine for me?
No. If you don’t want to use a binder, then the best thing is to use is a capsule filler since you are just filling the empty capsule shell with your active material.
If I am not able to form a tablet from my powder. What should I do next? Should I buy a machine with higher capacity or add something to my powder?
You should first look at your tableting mix. If you are able to get this right then the powder should bind into a tablet. If you have tried a few mixes and a form of granulation, then the next step would not be another type of tablet press but a capsule filler.
If I change the tooling for a different size, do I need to adjust the pressure as well?
Yes. You have to adjust the pressure whenever you change the tooling. This is for two reasons. Firstly you will have adjusted the setting even just a small amount by taking out the old tooling. Secondly, the new set of tooling will have a slightly different length to the old tooling. This will not be perceptible just from looking at it but a small difference will exist.
When you put in the new tooling the press both of these tiny changes can have a big impact on the tablet that you are making.
Because of this, it is important to make sure that you re-tune the press every time you change the tooling or the mix being put in the press.
If I make any changes on the machine will the warranty still be valid? I am thinking about replacing the motor for a different one.
Yes, we will cover the warranty but only on the parts that you have not changed or modified. If you are in doubt then please do reach out to the team and check with them first.
In what situation should I get a TDP 5 rather than a TDP 6s?
There are a number of times when it would be better to get a TDP 5 instead of a TDP6. Really a TDP 6 is only better if you need to make shaped tablets (not-round) very regularly or if you need to make very large tablets (bigger than 12-14mm).
If this is not the case then the TDP 5 is lighter, faster, and costs less than the TDP 6.
Is it possible to buy bigger hoppers for the TDP range?
No, sorry we do not currently offer bigger hoppers for the TDP range of tablet presses. This is for a number of reasons. Firstly it is important that the TDP 6s is watched during operation. You should not fill the hopper and leave it to run. In the event of a jam, you will need to be able to switch off the machine quickly.
Also, due to the fact that gravity and vibrations are used to move the powders through the machine, they can become subject to what is known as particle separation. The longer the powders are in the hopper the more likely this is to happen. Because of this, we do not advise using a larger hopper than the one fitted to the machine.
Is it possible to increase the production capacity to 5000 pcs per hour like the TDP 5?
No. Sorry the motor on the TDP 6s is set at 3000 per hour. This is so that it has the torque and pressure to achieve 60kN.
Is it possible to install a load cell to record the compression force on a TPD 6s machine?
Theoretically, yes. All of the pressure of the machine is put through one point where the fill adjustment cog meets the base. This happens during the production of every tablet. You could, in theory, insert a load cell at this point in the press. This, however, is not something that LFA offers or is really able to support.
Is the press already assembled in the box?
Yes, the press comes fully assembled in the box. You will need to lift it onto your workbench, and attach the fill tray and the hopper. This can be done using a Phillips or a crosshead screwdriver. It will take a couple of moments to do this.
Please be careful when lifting the press as it weighs 150kg (330lbs). You should use some form of mechanical lift to get it into position, such as a forklift or an engine hoist.
We also have a video on unboxing our TDP 6 here: TDP 6s Unboxing & Setup
Is there a system that allows customers to check the warranty period of their machines?
In order to determine whether or not your machine is still under warranty, you will need to call or email the office the machine was purchased from, and provide the serial number.
My machine is going into a lab/education facility. Is the TDP 6s appropriate for this environment?
My TDP 6s does not have a jogging button, to be quite honest it doesn't look much like the one on the website. Did you send me the right machine?
Yes, you received the correct machine. At LFA we are constantly working to improve the quality of our machines. We are not able, however, to update the photos and the videos on the website every time we make an improvement.
If you are unsure as to whether or not you got a TDP 6s then the best thing to do is to look on your machine. On your press will be the machine plate which is marked with your serial number along with the make and model of your machine. This will be clearly marked as a TDP6s.
The dies have become discoloured. Is this because of corrosion?
Yes, this could be down to corrosion or due to oxidation of your product. We would highly recommend taking your tooling out of the press and cleaning it at the end of every production run.
We would also recommend polishing the tooling to keep the surfaces clean and less likely to cause picking or capping.
The max fill depth is 12 mm. What will happen if I set up the fill depth over 12 mm?
Then the lower punch will come free from the die cavity and it will damage the tooling. Please do not do this.
It is important that you always turn the press over by hand before using the motor. If the press will not eject the tablet then this could be due to the fact that the lower punch has come out of the die bore. If this has happened then you will need to guide it back into place and decrease the fill depth until it is held in place.
The screw that holds the boot was damaged by the boot set screw. Did this happen because its knurled nut was tight against the base plate?
Yes, this can happen because the boot bolt and spring have been screwed too far into the press or have not been screwed in far enough. It is important to make sure that the bolt is in the correct position before over tightening the set screw.
It should be pointed out that it will not affect the operation of the press if it is damaged.
What does the TDP 6s do that the TDP 1.5 and 5 cannot?
The TDP 6s is able to do 2 things that the other TDP presses can not.
It is able to easily make shaped tablets. While the other TDP presses are able to make shaped tablets the TDP 6s does this with the least hassle and highest accuracy.
The TDP 6s is able to apply higher pressure for longer amounts of time. Because it is slowed down, the dwell time is much higher than on the other TDP presses. Combining this with the higher potential pressure output means that the press is able to oftentimes make stronger tablets.
¿Cuál es la diferencia entre la TDP 0, TDP 1.5, TDP 5 y TDP 6s?
Esta es una pregunta muy común, ya que las máquinas son muy similares, pero tienen diferentes puntos fuertes.
La manera más fácil de dividir las prensas compactas sería en máquina automática y máquina manual.
La TDP 0 es el modelo manual y requiere que usted mueva la manija al lateral de la prensa para producir las tabletas. Esto quiere decir que tiene la menor cantidad de presión y por ello es el modelo de nivel de entrada de la gama TDP.
La TDP 1.5, TDP 5 y TDP 6s son todas máquinas automáticas, ya que son impulsadas por un motor eléctrico. La TDP 1.5 es el modelo de nivel de entrada porque tiene menos presión (15kn) y está limitada en el tamaño de los comprimidos puede producir. La TDP de 5 es nuestro modelo más popular y puede producir aproximadamente 5.000 tabletas por hora. La TDP 5 tiene 50kn de presión y puede fabricar comprimidos de hasta 22 mm de diámetro. La TDP 6s es la más superior de la gama y es más adecuada para tabletas con formas irregulares. La TDP 6s también tiene un poco más de presión que la TDP 5 (60kn) y se adapta mejor a ciertos productos que no se compactan tan fácilmente.
What is the length of the warranty? And what are the terms and conditions?
The length of the warranty on any of the TDP range machines is 1 year from the date of purchase.
This warranty covers spare parts and excludes tooling and maintenance labour from LFA for machine services.
When you receive your machine, you will be given a serial number that will also be stamped onto the press. You will be able to use this if you ever need to make a warranty claim.
Full details on the LFA warranty can be found here: Warranty | We Have You Covered
What is the max weight of a tablet that can be made on this machine?
That will depend on what is known as your powder bulk density of your tablet mix. The easiest way to think of this is in the children's joke: What weighs more a ton of lead or a ton of feathers?
The joke is that they both weigh the same. Only one is much bigger than the other. Tablet presses work in the same way. The press does not weigh out your tablet mix. Instead, it uses the volume of the die cavity to fill and then this is the weight of the tablet.
So if your mix is very dense and granular then you will be able to make a very heavy tablet. If your mix is very light and fluffy then you will not be able to make a very heavy tablet.
The best thing to do is calculate the bulk density of your powder and then use this to work out what size tooling you will need to achieve the target weight for your tablets. A link to the video on how to work out your bulk density can be found here: https://www.lfatabletpresses.com/videos/calculating-bulk-density-making-a-tablet-pill-mix
What is the maximum diameter on a TDP 6s when using a motor? How about when I'm running the machine manually?
The maximum diameter of the die is 22 mm regardless of if you are using the motor or operating the machine by hand. This is what LFA recommends. The problem that most customers face is with wanting to use the maximum diameter along with the maximum fill depth and the maximum pressure.
If this is your requirement then it is important to test it before buying the press. Maxing out the press in every respect is difficult and can only be achieved with the perfect mix.
What is the maximum weight of a tablet that can be made on this machine?
That will depend on what is known as your powder bulk density of your tablet mix. The easiest way to think of this is in the children's joke: What weighs more a ton of lead or a ton of feathers?
The joke is that they both weigh the same. Only one is much bigger than the other. Tablet presses work in the same way. The press does not weigh out your tablet mix. Instead, it uses the volume of the die cavity to fill and then this is the weight of the tablet.
So if your mix is very dense and granular then you will be able to make a very heavy tablet. If your mix is very light and fluffy then you will not be able to make a very heavy tablet.
The best thing to do is calculate the bulk density of your powder and then use this to work out what size tooling you will need to achieve the target weight for your tablets. A link to the video on how to work out your bulk density can be found here:Calculating Bulk Density - Making a Tablet Pill Mix
What is the motor power of TDP 6s?
The motor power on a TDP 6s is .75 kW.
What is the yield rate of making tablets?
The TDP 6s can have a yield rate as low as 90%. This will depend on how fine your powders are. If you need to reduce your waste then you should consider an RTP Rotary Tablet Press or granulation.
What particle size will work on this machine?
As with any tablet press, it is good to have a particle size of around 80-60 mesh.
This would be large enough to avoid large losses and small enough to flow well through the machine. If the powder is finer than this then you are going to experience a larger level of loss.
If the particles are larger than this then it might not flow through the machine well and get caught as it is trying to enter into the die bore.
This being said every powder is very different and you will need to do tries to work out what is best for them.
What plug does this machine come with?
We send out all machines with the local plug on and set up to run on the local power supply.
What PPE equipment is needed to use this machine?
We would recommend using goggles, a dust mask and gloves at a minimum, but you may require a lot more depending on the products that you are working with, and your local health and safety laws.
What should we do if we don't want to use any excipients, especially binders?
What technical support and training come with this machine?
There are a number of ways we are able to support you:
- Every machine comes with a full manual that is emailed to you after purchase.
- There is a large range of video tutorials to teach you how to use the press.
- The machine comes with lifetime technical support. You can call, Skype or email to get answers to your questions and problems.
- We also offer free training at any one of our regional offices.
If after all of this you are still struggling to use your press, we are able to come to you. This is a service we charge for.
More information on this can be found here: https://www.lfatabletpresses.com/services
What tension should I set my belt to?
The tension on your TDP 5 belt will depend on whether or not you are installing a new belt or tension on an old one. Here are the exact tensions for the TDP 5:
Installation strand tension for new belt [N] 141.64
Installation strand tension for run-in belt [N] 94.42
To measure the tension on a belt we use a tension pen gauge. Here is a link to a video on how to use the belt tension pen gauge: Browning Tensioning V Belt Drives
Deflection forces for belt tension pen gauge [kg]
New 0.98
Run 0.67
Where is this machine made and shipped from?
All of our machines are made by us in Taiwan, and are shipped to you from our nearest office.
We have offices in the UK, USA, Germany and Taiwan.
Because they are made by us, we are able to control quality and give you the best support possible. And because they are shipped from your local office, wait times are reduced and customs clearance is avoided, ensuring you have support in your time zone in a language that is convenient to you.
Which machine is better for producing shaped tablets - TDP 5 or TDP 6s?
The TDP 5 and the TDP 6s are both able to take shaped tooling. This being said, it is a lot easier to use shaped tooling on the TDP 6s because of the way that the pressure is adjusted.
Which parts wear most often and should I keep regular stock of?
The most common wear part on the TDP 6s is the boot. This comes in direct contact with the die cavity and can be hit or chipped by the upper and lower punches. This is made of brass so that the tooling is protected in the event of a collision. Because of this, the boot is soft and will wear over time. If anything, we recommend keeping a spare to avoid losing production time.
In addition to the boot, there are four bushings in the TDP 6s that are also made from brass and designed to wear over time. It is likely that you will never have to change these.
We also recommend that you keep at least 1 spare set of tooling as this can break or wear over time.
LFA does aim to hold all major spare parts and tooling in stock so that they are ready to ship out in the event that you need them. The lead times on sold out parts, however, can take up to 6-8 weeks.
Why is TDP 6s better for making shaped tablets?
The TDP 6s is better for making shaped tablets due to the way the pressure is adjusted. The pressure adjustment happens in a linear motion. This means when you are tuning the press with a shaped set of tooling you do not need to worry about having to re-align the upper punch with the die bore every time you adjust the pressure. This saves not only a lot of time but reduces the risk of damaging your upper punch on the die bore.
Why should I get a TDP 6s if according to your website it has a lower production capacity than the TDP 1.5 and the TDP 5?
If your mix binds really well, then there is no reason. If, however, you need a longer dwell time, higher pressure or to make shaped tablets, then you might find that the TDP 6s is better suited to your needs.
If your main concern is production capacity, then we would recommend the RTP range of tablet presses.
Will the TDP 6s make stronger tablets than the other TDP machines?
In theory yes, but in practice, not necessarily.
The TDP 6s has 60kN of pressure which is the highest amount of any of the TDP presses. This and the fact that it runs slower is increasing what is known as dwell time. This means that your powders are under compression longer which increases the hardness of your tablets. So, if you put the same mix in a TDP 5 and a TDP 6s, in theory, the TDP 6s should produce a stronger tablet.
This being said, the press used to make a tablet is not the only thing that has a bearing on how hard the tablet eventually comes out. So if you mix is very directly compressible then using a TDP 6s instead of a TDP 5 will make it no stronger or harder.
Similarly, if your powder has no binding properties at all then it will not matter how much pressure you apply. You might never be able to make a hard tablet.
Would it help if we granulate the mix first?
There are three reasons to granulate your formula:
1. To improve the flowability of your formulation.
2. To make your formulation more compressible.
3. To ensure a consistent spread of API throughout the formulation.
If you would like to find out if your mix needs granulation then we do have a tablet formulation service available.
You can find out more about the tablet formulation service here: https://www.lfatabletpresses.com/services
