Let LPS Help Find the Right Solution for Filling and Capping

For new packagers browsing through filling and capping machinery on the LPS website, or on the internet in general, the different choices can be overwhelming. What is the difference between an overflow filler and a gravity filler? What does a piston filler do differently than other fillers? How does a spindle capper differ from a chuck capping machine? At LPS, we understand that the varying principles and options available for filling and capping can be confusing for someone without experience in the industry. For this reason, LPS is always willing to discuss a project and the different options available for getting product to the shelf.

FILLING MACHINERY

The type of filling machine used for any project will depend on a number of factors, with one of the most important being the product or products that will be filled. Liquid products vary in viscosity, and different filling machines are better for different viscosities. In general, packagers with low viscosity products will tend toward overflow and gravity fillers, while those filling higher viscosities are more likely to use piston and pump filling machines. However, exceptions do exist, as there are more factors to consider than just the product.

For example, many packagers fill product by volume. That is, the same volume of liquid will be placed into each container. Gravity, pump and piston fillers can all provide an accurate volumetric fill. However, some packagers may fill by weight, while others may want each bottle filled to the same level, even if the volume varies slightly. Some packagers may also run both thick and thin products. In some circumstances, a piston or pump filler may work for both thick and thin products to help a packager avoid the need for multiple filling machines.

Each filling project will have its own unique set of considerations. Only by discussing the products and the project in detail can the best, and most efficient, solution be determined.

CAPPING MACHINERY

Like filling machinery, there are several different capping machines available for packagers. Unlike filling machinery, the type of capping machine used will be driven almost entirely by the type of closure used for the project. Capping machinery is built for specific cap types. Screw-on type caps will be tightened with spindle or chuck cappers, snap on caps with snap capping machines. Bottle corkers will be used for T-corks and other cork-like closures.

As noted above, screw-on type caps, also sometimes called continuous thread caps, are offered a couple of different options for sealing bottles. Screw-on type closures are probably the most popular type of cap across the packaging industry. These types of caps can be simple flat caps like those found on bottled water and other beverages. However, screw-on type caps can also take the form of flip-tops, sports caps, trigger sprayers, pumps and more. The two different types of capping machines offer different benefits for high and low production needs as well as different types of bottles and caps. Chuck capping machines may offer a better solution for semi-automatic production while spindle cappers are preferred for higher speed capping.

Again, the correct type of capping machine for any project will require an analysis of the project, with much of the weight being placed on the type of closure used. From there, other considerations such as speed, range of caps and space will be analyzed to find the best capper for any project.

Liquid Packaging Solutions packaging specialists are always available to answer questions and assist in the analysis of any packaging project. Packagers can call toll-free at 1-888-393-3693 or use the LPS Quick Connect box found on each page of the website to get in touch!