Tablet press punches are precision tools—and one of the most common cleaning bottlenecks during changeovers.
Punch tips, logos, score lines, and collars trap residues that are difficult to remove quickly. If not cleaned thoroughly, these hidden contaminants can transfer to tablets as visible defects.
A better cleaning process improves both speed and quality.
Why Punches Cause Problems
Punches accumulate:
- Powder residues
- Binder films
- Lubricants
- Colored coating residue
- Dark grease-coated particles
- Metallic fines from wear
- Residues trapped in engravings
These may cause:
- Tablet spots
- Embedded particles
- Surface blemishes
- Rejects
- Complaint risk
Step 1: Sahara® for Fast Scrubbing
Sahara® foam wipers provide Scotch-Brite® style scrubbing power while remaining scratch-free on stainless steel and electropolished stainless surfaces.
That allows fast removal of visible residue without damaging polished punch surfaces.
Step 2: MiraWIPE® for Hidden Residues
MiraWIPE® microfiber fabric is engineered for heavy-duty cleaning.
It removes microscopic solids and residues from:
- Engravings
- Score lines
- Micro-scratches
- Radius transitions
- Surface wear zones
This is especially valuable on older punches that become harder to clean.
Step 3: PolyCHECK® + UV Inspection
Use PolyCHECK® swabs on logos, score lines, and punch details.
When illuminated under UV light, residues captured on the swab often fluoresce, helping operators determine if organic residue still remains on punch surfaces.
This provides faster confidence than visual inspection alone.
Quality Benefit: Lower Tablet FM Defects
Improved punch cleaning reduces the risk of hidden contamination later releasing into tablets.
Especially important for dark particles that may be:
- Grease coated
- Metallic
- Product residue agglomerates
Results
- Faster punch turnaround
- Lower reject rates
- Better cosmetic quality
- Fewer repeat cleanings
- Reduced downtime
Final Thought
Punches should produce tablets—not delay production.
Contact Foamtec for more information!