A pneumatically operated apparatus is described which simulates the forces generated by and the component movements encountered in a Macofar 13/2 dosator type capsule filling machine. Force transducers are fitted to the dosing piston and dosator tip, and the movement of the dosator piston and the powder bed followed by displacement transducers. Calibration of the transducers is described. The output from the transducers is collated, stored and manipulated by microcomputer. The manufacturing parameters which can be studied using this apparatus are discussed.