In almost every liquid production line, a packager will use automated filling machines in combination with automatic capping machines. Using both machines helps production lines stay at their optimal speed. Depending on your production needs, you may use different filler and capper combinations. However, there are a few factors that are key in determining whether filling or capping machines are compatible. When deciding the best combination for your production line, consider your space, efficiency needs, economics, and product qualities.
Physical Space
The first factor that may limit your filling and capping machine combinations is the space you have available. Packaging machinery takes up a lot of space, and if you don’t have enough of it, you have to seek other options. You may consider tabletop packaging machinery or uniframe systems. These use some of the same principles of automated packaging machinery while sacrificing some speed.
Monobloc systems may also save space by using a starwheel system rather than a straight inline filling and capping system. The more space you have, the more packaging options you have.
Required Efficiency
The efficiency required for your packaging needs will also determine what machine combinations you can use. For instance, automatic filling machines and manual capping equipment do not pair well. When selecting your filling and capping machines, consider the efficiency of the overall system as well as each machine.
Economics
When considering the economics of potential filling and capping machine combinations, there are many economic factors to consider. Machinery costs, manual labor costs, and the ability to upgrade are all crucial factors. If packaging machinery seems expensive up front, consider the expenses you can save through the efficiency of the new machine.
You may also consider the future growth of your production needs. If you expect production to increase, purchasing machines that can be upgraded will make more sense than purchasing equipment that you can’t use once production levels increase.
Products and Caps
Finally, the product and package—or the bottle and cap—will have an effect on the machine combinations available for your project. For example, spindle cappers will not be a good option for snap-on caps. Overflow fillers won’t likely be a good choice for thick liquid products.
When selecting the capper and filler, both must be chosen with the production and package in mind to guarantee consistent, reliable, and efficient packaging and performance.
Liquid Filling Experts
For over 70 years, FILAMATIC has provided a wide range of liquid filling machines to the packaging market. We create flexible, customized solutions for every stage of your business growth. Whether you require a single machine, a complete turnkey solution, or a fully-automated, integrated Monobloc system, we have the liquid filling experience that will exceed your expectations.
For more information on liquid filling, capping and labeling solutions, please call 866.258.1914 or visit – www.filamatic.com/contact-us.