Metrics Contract Services has completed the installation of a new high shear mixer from ACG Engineering at its facility in Greenville, NC. A division of Mayne Pharma, Metrics is utilizing the QUEST HSM III granulator to assist ongoing efforts in transitioning formulations from initial development to the process validation stage and, ultimately, to commercial production.
The new granulator further expands Metrics Contract Services’ portfolio of manufacturing and service capabilities including pharmaceutical formulation development, preclinical and Phases I-III clinical trial materials manufacturing and comprehensive analytical testing. A dedicated Stability Center helps ensure product efficacy and commercial manufacturing.
The new ACG mixer/granulator features a multi-blade chopper and Z-shaped impeller for better granules and shorter process times, and the machine’s unique sealing concept eliminates the need for compressed air.
“The new ACG Quest HSM-II Granulator imparts flexibility to use three different size bowls, to accommodate granulation batch sizes from 3kg to approximately 25kg,” said Brad Gold, vice president of pharmaceutical development, Metrics Contract Services. “Moreover, its slip ring technology affords us the ability to measure the force acting on the rotating impeller shaft. It provides a sensitive measure of granulation endpoint and, just as important, provides scale-up data during tech transfer.”
“Metrics’ selection of the QUEST HSM III provides ACG Engineering with a unique opportunity to debut our state-of-the-art granulation system at a world class pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing facility. We look forward to supporting Metrics as they continue to expand their process capabilities for development and manufacturing of oral solid dose products,” John Carey, international business head for developed markets, ACG Engineering, said.
For Metrics Contracting Services, the new granulator is part of Mayne Pharma’s recent $80 million investment in the Greenville site.