Pharmaceutical Coils Sizes, Definitions & FAQ 
Pharmaceutical cotton balls and coils offer impact resistance and absorbent qualities for packaging tablets and capsules like vitamins and food supplements. Coils are available in other fibers like rayon and polyester as well which we answer later in this blog which may be best for you. Note that when ordering pharmaceutical balls or coils the ideal storage temperature is 68°F - 77°F. Below we answer some of our most asked questions, however, if you still need assistance reach out to our team of packaging expert.
How is coil measured?
Coil is measured in grams per yard. For example, a 16 gram coil would be 16 grams per yard.
What coil sizes are available?
The most common sizes are 9, 12, 16 and 20 grams per yard. Custom sizes are from 3.5 grams to 26 grams per yard. Here are some sizes TricorBraun currently has available.
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12 Gram White Cotton Pharmaceutical Coil - 20 Pounds per Caseprice text as low as Starting at $117.62 CaseOut of stock -
12 Gram White Rayon Pharmaceutical Coil - 18 Pounds/Caseprice text as low as Starting at $92.00 Case -
Large Pharmaceutical Cotton Ball - 2,000/Caseprice text as low as Starting at $57.42 Case -
16 Gram White Cotton Pharmaceutical Coil - 18 Pounds/Caseprice text as low as Starting at $91.00 Case -
20 Gram White Cotton Pharmaceutical Coil - 18 Pounds/Caseprice text as low as Starting at $97.00 Case
Which type (Poly, Rayon, or Cotton) fits my application best?
Polyester: Soft, odorless petroleum product that is most commonly used for packaging soft-gel capsules.
Rayon: Synthetic fiber used as a filler for containers or bottles during transit preventing damage to tablets or capsules.
Cotton: Natural biodegradable fiber that absorbs moisture created by tablets or capsules.
How do I determine the amount of cotton needed for a particular bottle size?
See chart below.
| Bottle Size |
Opening in Inches |
Suggested Gram Weight Per Linear Yard |
| 50 cc | 1 1/16" | 9 Gram |
| 75 cc | 1 1/16" | 9 Gram |
| 120 cc | 1 1/4" | 12 Gram |
| 190 cc | 1 1/4" | 12 Gram |
| 290 cc | 1 1/2" | 16 Gram |
| 400 cc | 1 1/2" | 16 Gram |
| 500 cc | 1 1/2" | 16 Gram |
How large are the different sizes of cotton balls?
See Chart Below.
| Sizes | Weight (gr) | Cotton/Rayon Balls Per Bag | Cotton/Rayon Balls Per Case |
| Medium Cotton Balls | 0.26 | 2,000 | 4,000 |
| Large Cotton Balls | 0.90 | 1,000 | 4,000 |
| Large Rayon Balls | 0.90 | 1,000 | 2,000 |
Can I get a C of C?
Yes, a C of C can be provided to you by a TricorBraun Packaging Consultant.
Want to browse more pharmaceutical coil or ball options? Shop now TricorBraun's in stock options.
As you consider which item suits your product best, our packaging consultants are here to assist you. Contact us for expert guidance tailored to your specific packaging challenges.
TALK TO A PACKAGING CONSULTANT
Whether you’re looking for a stock package or a groundbreaking custom design, TricorBraun’s proven process will guide your packaging decisions from napkin sketch all the way to the retail shelf.
