Problem & answerA-10
Capsules Not Separating
Also covers: Incomplete separation · caps and bodies do not separate
Likely causes
- Vacuum pressure too low; filter blocked; hose or pipe leaking
- Upper and lower segments misaligned
- Segment holes blocked
- Separation timing incorrect
- Separation plate, bush or disc worn
- Capsule size does not match the change parts
- Capsule dimensions out of specification
- Capsules too dry or too moist; shells sticking together
- Capsule orientation incorrect
How to fix it
- 1Press Emergency Stop and isolate the machine before any adjustment.
- 2Check the vacuum gauge (typically 0.06–0.08 MPa; see Appendix A).
- 3Inspect vacuum hoses for leaks and clean or replace the vacuum filter.
- 4Confirm capsules are feeding and orienting correctly.
- 5Verify the capsule size matches the installed change parts and check capsule moisture.
- 6Realign the upper and lower segments with the alignment tools and clean the segment holes.
- 7Adjust separation timing to the machine set-up procedure (see A-16).
- 8
It is fixed when
Run 100 capsules: ≥ 99% separation, no partially separated or broken capsules.
Stop it coming back
- Clean the vacuum filter daily.
- Check vacuum before every batch.
- Inspect the separation station every shift and hoses weekly.
- Replace worn seals and separation parts during preventive maintenance.
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