Working with Merlin: Handy Tips and Useful Information

We always work towards getting excellent results for our customers, which is why providing the right information (from both us and you) helps with a smoother working relationship.

We get lots of questions about how to get started with projects, so we’ve put some helpful pointers together so that you know what we need to know to get the process in motion. If you would like to learn more about the tests Merlin can do, take a look at our services, or contact us here.

How to work with us:

Confidentiality – We’re happy to talk openly about our processes and procedures. We can have an initial generic discussion, but you could consider a non-disclosure agreement to protect your IP if you want to talk in depth about specific projects.
To get started, you need to let us know what you want to find out about your powders or what data you require.
If you’re not sure, we’d be happy to suggest options. We can set up a meeting to help talk you through the options.
Once we know what you need, we’ll then design a set of experiments for you, based around the data you’re looking for.
Together, we can plan how many samples should be tested, so that a quote and an outline experimental plan can be put together. This can be amended as required and will detail the testing to be completed, and how much each test will cost. Sending through a MSDS sheet at this point will also help us assess whether we can handle the powders you will be supplying.
Once you’re happy with the quote, the next step is to send us the samples and a purchase order.
We’ll send you the results electronically. This will consist of a report which summarises the methodology and the key results. We don’t expect you to be compaction experts and we’ll explain what the results mean for your processes, taking reference to current industry best practice. This may include observations and identification of future risks to scale-up. We’ll also send you spreadsheets of the data and/or raw data so you can add the results to your databases for future use. If you have any questions or require any more work to be completed, get in touch with us via email or by phone – our team will be happy to help.

What we need to know from you:

Do you have an up to date MSDS sheet?

This will give us all the information needed about potential hazards to us, which lets us assess our procedures and select the correct PPE to complete the testing of the powder.

Sample availability?

Tests are designed to use the minimum amount of powder. There are changes which can be made to reduce requirements further, if necessary.

How should your powder be stored?

Protect from heat, moisture etc.

When do you require your results by?

Let us know when you require your data and we’ll work towards having your testing completed for that specific date.

What you need to know from us:

What is our lead time?

We aim to send your results within two weeks of the samples arriving. Timing of larger projects can be scheduled.

How much sample do I need to send?

For Heckel Testing we require 3.5-5g of API. For Formulation testing, we require 15g for initial profile per batch, and then 10g for each additional speed. This is based on 10mm flat faced tooling at 300mg tablet weight. If this is too much, we can go to smaller tooling and adjust the weights accordingly.

How do I label my samples?

Samples need to be labelled with the material name and batch number that you need on your report, as this will stop any confusion when comparing data.

What do I need to send with my samples?

We will require a MSDS form and sample information with your samples. When shipping, you’ll need to label the samples as ‘samples for destructive testing’, as this is the preferred wording for customs. It will also help if the samples are valued appropriately as, occasionally, we have issues with customs charges and all the associated paperwork.

Where to send your samples?

Samples should be sent to:

Merlin Powder Characterisation,

D1, The Wallows Industrial Estate, Fens Pool Avenue,

Brierley Hill, West Midlands,

DY5 1QA

FAO Elaine Stone