Size reduction is the process of reducing large solid masses into smaller particles through mechanical means like impact, compression, cutting, or attrition. The objectives are to increase surface area, improve therapeutic effectiveness, produce uniform mixtures, and reduce sedimentation in suspensions. Common size reduction equipment used in pharmaceutical industries include hammer mills, ball mills, edge runner mills, end runner mills, and fluid energy mills which operate based on different mechanisms like impact, compression, cutting or attrition. Key factors affecting size reduction are material properties like hardness, moisture content, and melting point.