Piramal Pharma Solutions, a global Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) and part of Piramal Pharma Ltd. has announced its recent acquisition of a state-of-the-art Korsch XM-12 bilayer tablet press at its drug product facility in Morpeth, UK.

The Morpeth facility plays a vital role in the company's integrated offering, providing specialised services for the development and manufacturing of oral solids and hormonal products, the company said in a statement.

It further added that with the strategic addition of the Korsch XM-12 bilayer tablet press, the Formulation Development Team at Morpeth can now achieve high tablet output across flexible formats with greater precision and efficiency. “The XM-12 is designed for both single-layer and bilayer production, featuring advanced sanitary fittings for inlet hoppers, a special product chute for the containment of high potency APIs, and both B and D changeout turrets to support rapid changeovers,” it said.

Piramal Pharma Solutions has prioritised safety and quality throughout implementation of the XM-12 at the Morpeth facility, instituting comprehensive training protocols to ensure proper handling of the equipment.

“In preparation for using the Korsch XM-12, Piramal's scientists, operators, and maintenance teams will undergo thorough training alongside Korsch factory technicians, while Piramal's validation experts carry out qualification and validation. All activities will meet both industry standards and Piramal's own quality requirements,” said Frank Bugg, Managing Director and Site Head at Piramal Pharma Solutions' Morpeth facility.

The XM-12 training will be specifically tailored to meet the unique requirements of each role within the Formulation Development Team. “The training will be customised for Formulation Development operators and scientists, technical transfer staff, and maintenance groups. Both bilayer and single-layer modes will be challenged, as well as instruction on changeovers, cleaning, and even future containment testing,” added Bugg.

The XM-12 is equipped with built-in technology that maintains consistent precision output with minimal operator interaction once critical settings are established.

The Korsch XM-12 bilayer tablet press enables the facility to produce premium tablets at scale, with accuracy, speed, and flexibility. This strategic investment will help Piramal Pharma Solutions deliver innovative therapies to more patients, ultimately reducing the burden of disease worldwide, stated the company.