Filling Machines for Less Common Projects
For most filling projects, finding the best method to fill - volume, level, net weight or some other method - will point to the best machine for the project. However, some less common products or fluids will require a little more research and engineering to determine the best solution for the project. Below are a few of the more "common" uncommon filling projects and the modifications necessary to ensure an efficient fill.
Molten Products
Molten products are products that are solid at room temperature but can be heated to form a liquid. The products will be filled as a liquid and allowed to cool to their molten state after the fill is complete. Molten products are filled using a heated product pathway on the liquid filler to ensure that the product remains a liquid until the fill is complete. Some examples of molten products are candles, deodorant or lip balm.
Products With Particulates
Products with particulates can cause problems in product pathways for certain filling machines. For example, a jam or jelly with large chunks of fruit can block tubing or product pathways while the liquid and particulates are being drawn into the waiting containers. Piston filling machines, which use a wide cylinder to pull product from bulk containers, provide one solution for dealing with larger particulates. Other machines may work with products that have smaller particulates that will not cause buildup or backup. Other than jams and jellies, products with particulates may include salad dressings, sauces, soap and other products.
Corrosion Resistant Products
A majority of filling machines will be built using stainless steel as the main construction material for the frame and components. However, some harsh chemicals simply do not interact well with stainless steel, which can cause corrosion and premature breakdown of the equipment itself. In these situations, the stainless steel construction can be replaced with HDPE or plastic construction, prolonging the useful life of the machinery. Certain acids, bleaches and other chemicals may require this switch in construction material.
Hazardous Location or Environment Projects
In some situations, products themselves, or even the fumes from products or other processes, may be flammable, causing the potential for sparks from moving parts on machinery to create disaster. Depending on the specifics of each project, remote control panels may be implemented and enclosures and connections must meet specific standards to ensure no sparks or arcs ignite fumes or product. Hazardous location construction will generally be required for certain chemicals and solvent-based liquids among other products.
At Liquid Packaging Solutions, each project will be analyzed on a case-by-case basis to determine both an efficient and safe solution for the specific project at hand. To learn more about filling machines and all of their uses in the packaging industry, contact LPS today.