Abstract: This invention provides methods of spray drying pharmaceutical powders from a vibrating nozzle at low pressures. The method can effectively spray dry thick or viscous solutions or suspensions to provide small uniform particles. The invention includes dry particle compositions prepared by methods of low pressure spraying from vibrating nozzles.

Abstract: This invention provides methods of spray drying pharmaceutical powders from a vibrating nozzle at low pressures. The method can effectively spray dry thick or viscous solutions or suspensions to provide small uniform particles. The invention includes dry particle compositions prepared by methods of low pressure spraying from vibrating nozzles.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for drying a product using a regenerative adsorbent, more in particular to such a method which can be carried out in an energy-saving manner. According to the invention, the product is dried by bringing it into contact with an adsorbent, water being taken up form the product by the adsorbent. Subsequently, the adsorbent is regenerated with superheated steam, steam being obtained, which steam comprises at least a part of the mentioned water.

Abstract: Freeze drying apparatus and associated lyophilization procedures are provided employing vapor flow detection and/or vacuum control for monitoring and control of the lyophilization process. The vapor flow detector, such as a windmill sensor, is disposed to monitor vapor flow from product undergoing lyophilization. In a batch process, vapor flow is collectively monitored with the vapor flow detector between the process chamber and condenser chamber, while in a manifold configuration separate vapor flow detectors are employed at each flask attachment port. A windmill sensor provides visual feedback to an operator and/or electronic feedback to a system controller. A vacuum control system is also provided for use with or independent of vapor flow detection. This vacuum control disconnects the vacuum source from the process chamber when pressure within the process chamber falls below a first predefined set point.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the regulation of lyophilization in which the evaporative flux--that is to say, the output of evaporated water transferred on the trap (4)--is measured in a continuous manner, and action is carried out at the temperature of the racks (2) in order to reach, as close as possible, a predetermined optimal flux.