Designing a filling machine system is no introductory task, and no two systems are the same. There are crucial elements that must be considered in the beginning stages of the design process. Since no two systems are the same, your filling machine system will be designed to meet your specific project needs.
Depending on what container you’re filling, what product will be flowing throughout the system, the volume at which you are filling, and other needs, your system will differ. Product type, packaging, and automation level will all be key players when it comes to the design process.
It’s crucial to keep these factors and more in mind when designing a filling machine. Here we’ll discuss the most critical factors to consider when designing and what type of fillers align with these factors.
Product Considerations
When designing a filling machine, one of the most essential facts to think about is that almost all liquids flow differently. Therefore, it’s crucial to take note of the viscosity of the product you are handling. For example, a free-flowing product such as water that is low in viscosity will flow well through a gravity filler. This is because this type of machine relies on the power of gravity to push the product through.
Some products that are higher in viscosity will need a bit of help to be filled into the packaging. Lotions and other high viscosity liquids work well with piston fillers and pump fillers. Piston fillers have a versatile ability to handle liquids from aerated products to icings and sauces. Pump fillers work well with liquids of all viscosities and offer variety when it comes to the pump chosen. Pump fillers can utilize progressive cavity pumps, gear pumps, lube pumps, and various valves and fittings to meet the project’s needs.
Packaging Type
Packaging is a huge deciding factor when designing a liquid filling system. Certain machines perform better with different types of packaging. For example, think about how much a large shampoo container can vary from a soup can.
Therefore, a machine filling system must cater to the packaging the project calls for. The machine must be able to handle the packaging that is being filled. Whether that is vials, cans, tubes, or bottles, your system must be adequately equipped for the packaging being used.
Certain filling systems use starwheels that are capable of filling small bottles and vials. Starwheels keep small packaging stabilized throughout the filling process. If your product needs to hit a certain weight or must be packaged in bulk, net weigh bottle fillers can make sure that they do. If your product needs to be packaged into a pastry bag or similar packaging, a piston filler is a viable option.
Automation Level
Liquid filling machine systems range from manual tabletop to semi-automatic to fully automatic functions. Depending on your current project, you will have different automation needs. So, when designing a liquid filling machine system, remember that automation is a crucial deciding factor.
Different automation levels vary in size. For example, a manual or tabletop filling machine will take up much less space than a fully automatic machine. Fully automatic machines are often designed as a stand-alone system that will be an addition to a conveyor belt. Smaller tabletop systems are capable of integrating within a current manufacturing system.
Assess the project and evaluate the level of automation your project calls for. If you’re in need of a custom fully automated system that works swiftly and continuously, just keep in mind that this system will take up more space. On the other hand, a tabletop filling machine can be a great compact addition to your existing system.
In order to have an optimized assembly line and filling process, your filling machine design needs to be perfect. A perfectly designed filing machine will streamline the filling process and create ideal packaged goods. When planning, put a key emphasis on your automation level, packaging, and product type. Follow these guidelines, and you’re sure to design the ideal system for your needs!
Guest Autor – Michelle Pudlo
Michelle Pudlo joined E-PAK Machinery, Inc. in 2001 and is the Marketing and Trade Show Manager for E-PAK Machinery, Inc., Oden Machinery, Inc. and Change Parts , Inc. She is responsible for the marketing, communication and business development efforts of all three companies. In addition to strategic business development efforts, she directs media relations, branding, advertising and Trade Show Coordinating.
Header Photo: Avatar_023 – Getty Images
