What is a dosing system?
Dosing system — definition: A dosing system (also: dosing unit, dispensing system) is an industrial apparatus that measures and delivers precise quantities of bulk powder, granulate or liquid into a process — using gravimetric (loadcell, OIML R76 ±0.1%) or volumetric (screw, rotary valve, vibratory feeder) principles. In pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing, dosing systems comply with GMP Annex 1 (2022), 21 CFR Part 11, GAMP 5 and ATEX 2014/34/EU — enabling OEB 1-5 containment performance. HECHT's dosing portfolio covers LIW (loss-in-weight, RSD <0.5%) and volumetric feeders for APIs, excipients, battery-grade powders and food ingredients.
Key Points
- Gravimetric dosing (LIW): OIML R76-certified loadcells ±0.1% accuracy, RSD <0.5% — required for GMP Annex 1 blend uniformity (USP <905>) and ICH Q7 API dispensing
- ATEX certification: dosing screw motors (category 2D, zone 21), ESD-safe contact parts (NEN-EN 60079-32), PTFE/RVS 316L construction for REACH-compliant CMR substances
- HECHT dosing products: LBK-EC (big bag dosing OEB 1-5, SMEPAC-validated), CFE-K-EC (drum dosing OEB 3-4), screw feeders (EHEDG class I/II for food), vibratory feeders (FSMA, ATEX)
- Integration: ISA-88 batch, OPC-UA MES/ERP, GAMP 5 IQ/OQ/PQ, 21 CFR Part 11 audit trail, PAT feedback loop (NIR/Raman inline) for continuous manufacturing (ICH Q13)
- TCO benefit: automated LIW dosing reduces giveaway by 1-3% of product value and cuts operator exposure below OEL via closed-loop OEB containment
Explore HECHT's complete dosing portfolio via our powder processing solutions, validate dosing performance at our Test & Trial Centre in Delft, or review pharma-specific dosing and containment systems.
TL;DR / Samenvatting
A dosing system is an essential industrial tool that accurately doses liquids, gases, or powders for various applications.
In this article, we delve deeper into what dosing systems exactly are and why they are invaluable in different sectors.
Waarom what is a dosing system? essentieel is
Using a good dosing system is not only crucial to minimize waste but also ensures consistent product quality. Studies show that companies implementing high-quality dosing technologies achieve significant cost savings and efficiency improvements.
Het what is a dosing system? proces stap voor stap
- Analyze the specific dosing requirements
- Choose the right dosing system for the application
- Calibrate and test the system accurately
- Adjust the settings according to the requirements
- Regularly maintain for optimal performance
Concrete praktijkvoorbeelden & cases
From mineral processing plants to chemical industries, dosing systems play a crucial role. By implementing advanced dosing technologies, companies have seen significant improvements in product quality, productivity, and cost savings.
Voordelen op een rij
- Accurate dosing for consistent product quality
- Waste minimization and cost savings
- Increased productivity and efficiency
- Flexibility and adaptability to different production needs
Veelgestelde vragen (FAQ)
What is a dosing system?
A dosing system is a technology tool used to accurately dose liquids, gases, or powders for various industrial applications.
How does a dosing system work?
Dosing systems utilize advanced pumps and control equipment to dose the right amount of materials according to preset parameters.
Why is a dosing system important?
A good dosing system ensures consistent dosages, minimizes product waste, and enhances overall production quality.
What are the types of dosing systems?
Dosing systems vary from gravimetric to volumetric dosing methods, each suitable for specific applications based on accuracy and precision requirements.
How to maintain a dosing system?
Regular maintenance, calibration checks, and component inspections are vital to ensure the dosing system operates accurately and efficiently over time.
Conclusie
Dosing systems form the backbone of many industrial processes, offering significant benefits to companies striving for efficiency and quality. For tailored dosing solutions, contact DoseTech Solutions.
Woordenaantal: 1100
Over de auteur
Joost van Velzen is the CEO of DoseTech Solutions with over 15 years of experience in the dosing industry.
FAQ — Dosing Systems for Industrial Powder Processing
What is the difference between gravimetric and volumetric dosing systems, and which is better for GMP applications?
Gravimetric dosing (LIW — loss-in-weight) continuously measures the weight change of the feeder hopper to calculate instantaneous mass flow rate — achieving RSD <0.5% regardless of powder density variations. Volumetric dosing measures rotations or frequency, which can drift if bulk density fluctuates (common with hygroscopic APIs). For GMP Annex 1 and ICH Q7 applications — especially HPAPI at OEB 4-5 — gravimetric LIW is preferred because it delivers OIML R76-traceable records, supports ALCOA+ data integrity, and is validated per GAMP 5. HECHT's LBK-EC and CFE-K-EC systems include integrated OIML R76 loadcells as standard.
How do ATEX requirements affect dosing system design in pharmaceutical and chemical plants?
ATEX 2014/34/EU requires all electrical components in zone 21 (combustible dust) to be certified category 2D — including dosing motors, sensors, control panels and HMIs. For powder dosing, this means Ex-rated drives (IEC 60079-0), ESD-bonded contact parts (NEN-EN 60079-32, resistance <10⁶ Ω), ATEX-certified loadcell transmitters, and dust-tight IP65/IP67 enclosures. HECHT designs all dosing systems with a zone-indeling P&ID, ATEX equipment schedule and NEN 3140 electrical inspection dossier — directly supporting customer ATEX risk assessment (ARBO directive 1999/92/EG).
What validation documentation is needed for a dosing system in a GMP Annex 1 environment?
A complete dosing system validation package for GMP Annex 1 includes: URS (User Requirements Specification), FDS (Functional Design Specification), FAT (Factory Acceptance Test) and SAT protocols, IQ (Installation Qualification) verifying ATEX compliance, OIML R76 calibration and EHEDG surface finish (Ra ≤0.8 µm), OQ (Operational Qualification) with dosing accuracy tests at min/max throughput (RSD <0.5%), and PQ (Performance Qualification) in production conditions including SMEPAC containment test for OEB dosing. HECHT and Plant Partner B.V. deliver complete GAMP 5-aligned IQ/OQ/PQ documentation.
Author: Mark van Leeuwen, Sales Director Hecht Technology B.V. Reviewed: 01 June 2026.
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