A 2-axis hydraulic press (loaded with custom tooling) from Phoenix Hydraulic Presses Inc., Hilliard, OH, produces accurate prototype pharmaceutical tablets and other products for analysis and testing. The press replicates the manufacturing operation, and produces samples with similar properties to those required in actual production.

At the heart of the press are a 20-ton vertical cylinder and a 5-ton horizontal cylinder. They operate in a force-over-time mode, as selected in the operator interface. Ramp time for each cylinder is 30 to 60 sec, with a hold time ranging from 5 sec to two min. Pressure is controlled to within ± 5%.

Electronic press controls include a Delta Motion Controller, Micrologix 1100, and a PanelView operator interface with a 10-in. screen. PLC/HMI communications are provided through Ethernet connections.