Mumbai: Piramal Pharma Solutions (PPS), a leading global Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) and part of Piramal Pharma Ltd., announced the installation of a state-of-the-art Korsch XM-12 bilayer tablet press at its drug product facility in Morpeth, UK.
This strategic investment enhances the site’s formulation development capabilities, supporting the production of advanced oral solid dosage forms, including fixed-dose combinations and modified-release drug delivery systems.
The Morpeth facility is a key component of PPS’s integrated global network, specializing in the development and manufacturing of oral solids and hormonal products. With the addition of the Korsch XM-12, the Formulation Development Team will gain the ability to deliver high-output tablet manufacturing across both single-layer and bilayer formats with greater precision, efficiency, and flexibility. The equipment features advanced sanitary fittings for inlet hoppers, a dedicated product chute designed to contain high potency APIs, and both B and D changeout turrets for rapid production changeovers.
PPS has emphasized safety and quality throughout the implementation of the new tablet press. Comprehensive training protocols have been designed to ensure effective and safe operation, with tailored programs for scientists, operators, technical transfer staff, and maintenance teams. Training will be conducted in collaboration with Korsch factory technicians, and will cover bilayer and single-layer modes, changeovers, cleaning procedures, and future containment testing. All qualification and validation activities are being performed by Piramal’s validation experts in line with industry standards and the company’s own rigorous quality requirements.
“In preparation for using the Korsch XM-12, Piramal’s scientists, operators, and maintenance teams will undergo thorough training alongside Korsch factory technicians, while our validation experts ensure qualification and validation. These steps reinforce our commitment to both safety and product quality,” said Frank Bugg, Managing Director and Site Head at Piramal Pharma Solutions’ Morpeth facility.
The Korsch XM-12 is equipped with built-in technology that maintains consistent precision with minimal operator intervention once critical settings are established. Its advanced design allows PPS to further strengthen its ability to support customers with innovative drug delivery solutions, ensuring speed, accuracy, and scalability in production.
The installation of the Korsch XM-12 at the Morpeth facility underscores Piramal Pharma Solutions’ commitment to continuous improvement, quality excellence, and patient-centric innovation. By expanding its formulation development capabilities, the company is better positioned to deliver differentiated therapies to patients worldwide, helping to reduce the burden of disease and improve global health outcomes.
