Capsule-shaped tablets (also called caplets or oblong tablets) are the second most popular tablet shape after round. Their elongated profile makes them easier to swallow than round tablets of equivalent weight, which is why pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturers increasingly prefer this shape for patient compliance.
EMMKAY INDUSTRIES manufactures capsule shape tablet dies and punches in all standard sizes, tooling standards, and materials. Since 1983, we have supplied capsule tooling to pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and ayurvedic manufacturers across India.
Capsule Shape Specifications
| Tablet length | 4mm to 22mm |
| Tablet width | 2mm to 10mm |
| Tooling standards | D tooling, B tooling, BB tooling |
| Punch type | Keyed punches (orientation required) |
| Punch tip profiles | Shallow concave, standard concave, deep concave, beveled edge |
| Embossing | Company logo, product name, dosage strength, break lines |
| Materials | EMMKAY Special Steel, OHNS, HCHC (D3), S7 |
| Coatings | Chrome, DLC, TiN, CrN |
| Price range | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per set |
| Minimum order | 10 sets |
Why Choose Capsule Shape?
| Advantage | Details |
|---|---|
| Easier to swallow | Elongated profile slides down the throat more easily than round tablets |
| Better patient compliance | Patients prefer capsule shapes, especially for larger tablets |
| Brand differentiation | Distinctive shape stands out from standard round tablets |
| Embossing area | Larger flat surface area for product identification |
| Dose splitting | Break lines work well on the flat surface |
Capsule shape is particularly popular for large pharmaceutical tablets (500mg+) where swallowability matters, nutraceutical supplements and multivitamins, film-coated tablets where appearance matters, and branded products requiring a distinctive shape. For a more compact alternative, consider our oval shape tooling.
Important:
Capsule shape tablets require keyed punches to maintain orientation during compression. The key prevents the punch from rotating in the turret, ensuring the elongated shape aligns correctly with the die bore.
Applications by Industry
| Industry | Common Sizes | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmaceutical | 8–18mm length | Analgesics, antibiotics, cardiovascular drugs |
| Nutraceutical | 8–22mm length | Multivitamins, calcium supplements, omega-3 |
| Ayurvedic | 8–16mm length | Herbal formulations, ashwagandha, triphala |
| Confectionery | 8–15mm length | Pressed mints, candy tablets |
| Veterinary | 12–22mm length | Animal health products |
Additional Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do capsule shape tablets need keyed punches?
Capsule shape is non-round, so the punch must maintain a specific orientation to align with the die bore. A key on the punch barrel fits into a keyway in the turret, preventing rotation. Without the key, the punch could rotate and the tablet shape would be misaligned. This applies to all non-round shapes including oval, triangle, and star.
Can capsule shape tablets have a break line?
Yes. Break lines (score lines) work well on capsule shape tablets because the flat surface provides a clean splitting line. We manufacture single score and cross score capsule punches. See our how to choose tooling guide for more on embossing and scoring options.
How do I choose the right capsule size?
The size depends on your tablet weight and formulation density. Use our tablet sizing guide as a starting point, or contact us with your requirements and we will recommend the optimal dimensions.
Enquire About Capsule Tooling
₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per set · Min. 10 sets
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