Comparing Semi-Automatic and Automatic Capping Machines

Automation of the packaging process is often driven by demand for a product. One business may produce thousands of products every hour, while another may not prepare a thousand items in a month. For this and other reasons, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution for capping and sealing products. At Liquid Packaging Solutions, we manufacture both semi-automatic and automatic capping equipment to help packagers of all sizes protect their products.

While capping machines are built specifically for the type of closure used to seal containers, each capping machine will offer packagers an automatic and semi-automatic version with specific benefits. As an example, spindle and chuck cappers tighten a range of different screw-on type closures, from the flat caps found on beverages to pumps and trigger sprayers found on soaps and cleaners. Both capping machine can be manufactured to run automatically or semi-automatically, but each also offers specific benefits. Spindle cappers use sets of spinning disks to tighten caps, with the automatic machine delivering caps to bottles and allowing the bottles to be tightened as they pass through the machine on a conveyor, allowing for continuous tightening. Chuck capping machines apply torque by using a chuck that descends to spin the continuous thread closure onto the bottle, but the bottles must stop in a precise location to allow the tightening to take place. The automatic spindle capper is often preferred for the added speed.

Semi-automatic spindle cappers consist of two spindle disks that require an operator to place the cap on the bottle and slide the combination into the nest of the machine, allowing the disks to thread the closure. Semi-automatic chuck cappers offer other options, including a handheld machine, which allows for more flexibility and the freedom to move the capping process from location to location, often making the chuck capper a better choice for semi-automatic processes. However, packagers using a trigger sprayer may find the semi-automatic spindle capper the better choice as the chuck will not be able to descend over the trigger. Similarly, some businesses may choose an automatic chuck capping machine for highly accurate torque or when bottle stability or size are an issue. The ability to create both automatic and semi-automatic versions of each machine ensures solutions for packagers of any size, and containers and closures of any type.

The cap delivery system is the main distinction between automatic and semi-automatic machines. Using a vibratory bowl, sorting bowl or cap elevator, automatic machines deliver caps, corks or other closures to the machine, whereas semi-automatic machines will require an operator to either hand place the cap or load a chute with a few caps at a time. Once the cap is delivered to the container, the automatic machine requires no assistance from an operator, other than initial set up for the container and closure to be run in production. Semi-automatic equipment will normally require the operator to move each cap and bottle combination into position for the capping process. While this may reduce the speed gained for the overall process, it ensures a consistent and reliable seal with each cycle run on the machine, while also protecting employees from repetitive motion injuries due to twisting, tightening or pushing each closure into place.

Finally, for new businesses or companies that are expecting growth in the future, capping machines can be manufactured to allow for upgrades as production increases. Semi-automatic machines can be manufactured on full frames to allow for the addition of cap delivery systems and automated controls at a later date. Not all machines are upgradeable, but by planning ahead with LPS, we can ensure that your machines are built to grow with your company! Browse the LPS website for more capping machines, including solutions for screw-on closures, snap caps, corks, ROPP caps, and more.