Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re troubleshooting tablet compression problems or exploring steel types for your punches and dies, this page offers expert answers to the most common questions we hear from customers across industries.
Table of Contents
- Tablet Design
- Tooling Materials
- Tool Inspection Systems
- Tool Maintenance & Accessories
- Tablet Press Operations
- Need More Help?
Tablet Design
Q: How do I calculate the surface area of a tablet?
To calculate a tablet’s surface area, you’ll need the shape, diameter (or length and width), and height. For round tablets, use the formula for a cylinder. For shaped tablets, contact our team or refer to USP <1062> for guidance.
Q: How can I calculate a tablet’s volume?
Use the geometric formula that best matches your tablet’s shape. For a round tablet:
Volume = π × radius² × height
For complex shapes, contact Natoli for design support or tablet drawings.
Tooling Materials
Q: What is the best steel for tablet punches and dies?
The best steel depends on your formulation, press speed, and wear resistance needs.
- S7: Great for impact toughness
- D3: Excellent for abrasive powders
- Premium steels like PM-V11 are ideal for extended tooling life
Need help choosing? Our experts will guide you.
Q: What types of steel does Natoli use for tooling?
We offer both standard and premium tool steels, including:
- Standard steels: S7, D3
- Premium steels: PS, PM-V11, PM-15V, and other proprietary alloys
Q: What’s the difference between standard and premium steel for tablet tooling?
- Standard steel: Good durability at a lower cost
- Premium steel: Higher wear resistance, better for abrasive formulations and high-speed machines
Choosing the right steel improves tablet quality and extends tooling life.
Q: How can I fix picking and sticking issues during tablet compression?
Sticking is often caused by:
- Moist or tacky formulations
- Improper steel or surface finish
- Worn or dirty punches
Solutions include switching coatings, polishing tooling, and reviewing formulation properties.
Q: Are S7 and D3 steels stainless? What do these steel codes mean?
S7 and D3 are tool steels, not stainless.
- S7 is used for high impact and toughness
- D3 is used for hardness and wear resistance
We offer stainless options for specific environments—ask our team for recommendations.
Tool Inspection Systems
Q: What does Natoli’s TM-II Tool Maintenance Program include?
TM-II helps track tooling condition, usage, and inspection. It includes:
- Inspection software
- Digital micrometers
- Punch and die maintenance protocols
- Optional calibration services and training
Q: What are the computer system requirements for TM-II software?
You’ll need:
- Windows 10 or newer
- 8GB RAM minimum
- 500GB hard drive
- USB ports and barcode scanner (optional)
We’ll help you configure your setup.
Q: What are the most important punch inspection measurements?
Key dimensions include:
- Overall punch length
- Tip length and shape
- Head flat, barrel diameter, and cup depth
Regular punch inspections help reduce wear, improve output, and prevent press damage.
Tool Maintenance & Accessories
Q: What tools and supplies do I need to polish and refurbish punches and dies?
We recommend:
- Polishing motors or lapping stations
- Diamond compounds or pastes
- Ultrasonic cleaner
- Drying racks and protective storage cases
You can order a complete kit or consult us for custom setups.
Q: Should I use oil or lube to store or reuse tablet tooling?
Yes. Apply a light coat of Barrel Lube or food-safe oil to protect against rust and oxidation.
Store in sealed containers with desiccant for best results.
Tablet Press Operations
Q: Is it safe to run a tablet press with missing or partial sets of punches and dies?
Running a press with a partial set can cause:
- Uneven pressure and wear
- Misalignment or damage to remaining stations
- Reduced product quality
We strongly recommend using full tooling sets or consulting Natoli before operating otherwise.
Need More Help?
Still troubleshooting? Not sure which tooling or software fits your needs?
Contact Natoli Technical Support
We’re ready to help you solve any challenge from punch design to tablet defects.