This rig measures the force required to split one half of a hard gel capsule. This allows manufacturers to investigate the effects of certain fil领s on the capsule shell and identify changes that may impact their stability and long-term performance. Prior to testing, the fil领 of the capsule is removed and the empty shell is mounted to a separating rod fixture on the texture analyser. Vertical movement of the upper rod is then applied until the capsule is split apart, while the force required to do so is recorded. This test highlights three important parameters; elastic stiffness, tensile force and elongation at break point. A reduction in elastic stiffness and tensile strength occurs when capsules become softer and therefore show a tendency to fail. If the texture of a capsule is compromised, it may not be able to withstand hand领 and storage, resulting in fil领s leaking from the capsule.