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There are two different modes of fluid bed granulating: Dry stage and Wet stage. In Dry stage granulation, the particles only require a slight wetting to become tacky and stick to each other. The granulating solution is applied at a rate less than or equal to the evaporation rate. Thus the particles remain "dry" through the entire process. In Wet stage granulation, the particles require significant wetting before they become tacky enough to stick to each other. The granulating solution is applied at a rate higher than the evaporation rate until the particles build up enough moisture to granulate. The characteristics of the particles when wet and the type of granulating solution being used will determine which mode of granulating is most appropriate. While Dry stage is more common, Wet stage granulating allows for denser products. |