Semi-Automatic Capsule Filling Machine Maintenance: Three Things Really Matter — Power, Vacuum Pump, and Daily Care
Introduction Semi-automatic capsule filling machines remain one of the most widely used solutions in capsule production, especially for small to medium-sized pharmaceutical manufacturers, nutraceutical producers, R&D laboratories, and companies operating with flexible or batch-based production lines. Compared with fully automatic systems, semi-automatic machines offer a balanced combination of investment cost, operational flexibility, and production efficiency, which is why they continue to represent a significant share of the market. In daily operation, these machines are often used continuously and across different capsule sizes, formulations, and production schedules. As a result, their performance depends not only on proper operation, but also on consistent and correct maintenance practices. Many stability issues seen in real production are not caused by the machine itself, but by overlooked fundamentals such as power supply conditions, vacuum system care, and routine maintenance habits. As a professional manufacturer of capsule filling equipment, we are frequently asked why similar semi-automatic capsule machines perform very differently in long-term use. Based on extensive manufacturing experience and feedback from production sites, the answer is clear: maintenance plays a far more critical role than most users expect. In this article, we would like to share practical insights into how semi-automatic capsule filling machines should be maintained in real production environments. Rather than focusing on operating procedures, the following sections highlight three maintenance areas that have the greatest impact on machine stability, reliability, and service life. 1. Power & Electrical System: The Foundation of Stable Operation For semi-automatic capsule filling machines used in different countries and regions, power supply requirements are not universal. Voltage levels, frequency standards, and power configurations vary widely across markets. When importing capsule filling machines from overseas, confirming electrical compatibility in advance is a fundamental but often underestimated step. Before connecting the machine to the power supply for the first time, the actual on-site voltage should always be carefully checked and verified. Even when the equipment is correctly configured at the factory, differences in local power conditions, wiring errors, or installation assumptions may create discrepancies. In practice, we have seen many cases where components were damaged simply because voltage was not properly checked and confirmed before powering on. For reassurance, we will put stickers on the power plug for operators to check. In real production environments, connecting a machine to a power source that does not match its designed specifications may not cause immediate failure. However, this mismatch places continuous stress on motors, control circui...