Oval tablets feature a smooth elliptical profile that combines the swallowability advantages of capsule shape with a more compact, rounded appearance. This shape is popular for film-coated pharmaceutical tablets, nutraceutical supplements, and branded products where a premium look is desired.
EMMKAY INDUSTRIES manufactures oval tablet dies and punches in all standard sizes and tooling configurations. Since 1983, we have supplied precision oval tooling to manufacturers across India.
Oval Tablet Specifications
| Tablet length | 4mm to 22mm |
| Tablet width | 2mm to 11mm |
| 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 |
Like capsule shape, oval tablets require keyed punches to maintain orientation during compression. Oval shape is preferred when film coating uniformity is critical, a premium modern tablet appearance is desired, or the tablet needs to be easy to swallow but more compact than capsule shape. See our punch coatings guide for coating options that improve film coating performance.
Applications by Industry
| Industry | Common Sizes | Typical Products |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmaceutical | 10–16mm | Film-coated analgesics, cardiovascular drugs, antibiotics |
| Nutraceutical | 12–20mm | Multivitamins, mineral supplements, omega-3 tablets |
| Ayurvedic | 10–14mm | Coated herbal tablets, branded ayurvedic products |
| Veterinary | 12–20mm | Animal health supplements |
Additional Information
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between oval and capsule shape?
Oval tablets have a smooth, continuously curved elliptical profile with no flat edges. Capsule shape tablets have an elongated body with flatter sides and rounded ends. Oval provides better coating uniformity; capsule provides more embossing area. Both require keyed punches.
Can oval tablets have embossing?
Yes, but the curved surface limits embossing depth and detail compared to capsule or round tablets with flat faces. Shallow debossed text and logos work well on oval tablets. See our custom tablet dies page for embossing options.
What tooling standard is used for oval tablets?
D tooling for oval tablets up to approximately 24mm across the width. B tooling for smaller oval tablets. The tooling standard is determined by the maximum cross-section dimension, not the length. BB tooling is also available for compact press configurations. See our D tooling vs B tooling comparison for guidance.