Advantage: Spindle Capping Machines

While many different cap types exist for those packaging a product, the screw cap is probably still the most popular.  Screw caps themselves can take on a number of different shapes and forms, from simple flat caps, to flip top caps, sports caps and even trigger sprayers.  And while different capping machines exist for screw caps, the spindle capping machine continues to be the capper of choice for those running automatic packaging systems.

 

Spindle capping machines use sets of matched, spinning wheels to apply torque to the screw caps as they pass through the capper.  A spindle capper may also use a clutch on the last set of spindles to allow for more accurate and consistent torque.  Gripper belts support bottles as they move through the capping area, guarding against stripped and missed caps as well as bottle tipping and product spilling.  There are several other advantages that make spindle cappers popular among packagers that use a screw cap to secure their bottle.

 

1.  CONTINUOUS CAPPING

 

Spindle cappers allow for continuous capping on a packaging line.  By using cap elevators, vibratory bowls or even a combination of the two, the operator of a spindle capping machine need only replenish bulk caps from time to time.  The elevator and/or bowl deliver caps to a cap chute, which in turn delivers caps to the bottles.  Each bottle receives a cap just prior to entering the capping area, keeping the process continually moving forward.

 

2.  FEW WEAR PARTS

 

The wear parts on these capping machines are limited as well.  The spindle discs which will contact the cap and the gripper belts which stabilize the bottle are the two components of the spindle capping machine that a packager can expect to replace over time.  The capper parts are affordable enough that most packagers simply keep replacement discs and belts on hand, avoiding extended downtime and ensuring efficient production.

 

3.  EASY CHANGEOVER

 

Spindle cappers do not normally require any type of change parts for different bottles or caps.  Though some adjustments may be necessary - to the chute, gripper belts and/or discs - these adjustments can be made on the capper control box, capper face plate or through the use of simple fingertip knob adjustments.  The easy changeover from one bottle to another reduces downtime and keeps production moving even when multiple bottles or caps are being used in the same packaging plant.

 

4.  RANGE OF BOTTLES AND CAPS

 

The easy changeovers allow the spindle cappers to efficiently run a wide range of cap types and sizes.  As mentioned above, screw caps come in many forms.  The spindle capper can handle a sports cap, flat cap, trigger sprayer or any other type of screw cap.  In addition, spindle capping machines can handle different bottle types and sizes as well.  From skinny round bottles to larger square bottles, and even F-style containers, a few simple width and height adjustments and the spindles will be applying torque once again.

 

5.  TORQUE CONTROL THROUGH CLUTCHES

 

Finally, as we have already noted as well, spindle capping machines can use clutches on a single set of spindle wheels to ensure the consistent application of torque.  By avoiding caps that are too tight or too loose, a packaging company can avoid problems as simple as a product spill to those as complicated as bad publicity or even a product recall.  This peace of mind, coupled with all the other advantages of the spindle capper, is what keeps the spindle capper such a popular capping machine.

 

If you would like more information on spindle cappers, or any of the equipment manufactured by Liquid Packaging Solutions, Inc., contact our offices toll free today at 1-888-393-3693.