Filling Machine Nozzle Choices

We have touched a number of times on choosing the correct filling machine for your product and project. From fill-to-level systems to volumetric and net weight, different types of fills work better for different types of packaging projects. But even after the type of bottle filler is chosen, there will be other decisions to make on the components of the machine to ensure the best possible performance. One of these components will be the nozzle type used on the bottle filler itself, and different nozzle types can create different benefits for any given project.

Sometimes nozzle choice will be a fairly simple decision, as in the case of the overflow filler. Overflow filling machines use a special type of nozzle that creates a seal over the bottle opening, allowing each bottle to be filled to a level, rather than filled by volume. Still, the correct size of the nozzle will add efficiency to the machine and allow packagers to achieve higher production outputs. So even with an overflow nozzle, some simple analysis must be made to choose the best option for the project.

Outside of overflow nozzles, the options become more varied but will still depend on the details of each individual project. For example, a gravity filler may use a very basic nozzle, simply letting free-flowing product funnel into a bottle by opening and closing a ball valve. But many other options are also available. Some products may benefit from a bottom up fill, decreasing the likelihood of caverns in thicker products or foaming with other products. These nozzles may take the form of longer tubes, which will descend each cycle, begin to release product at the lowest point and then ascend while continuing to fill containers in order to avoid the issues set out above.

Of course, different containers are also used for different projects. Most beverage bottles, such as bottle water or popular soft drinks, will use a round, somewhat narrow nozzle to dispense product. However, some projects may benefit from a wider nozzle, especially when the container is wider or has a large opening. The nozzle tip can vary in shape just as the nozzle itself can vary in shape and size to achieve the best solution for the individual project.

In addition, nozzle material can play a large part in some packaging projects. While stainless steel will often be the go-to choice for nozzles, some products simply do not mesh well with steel. For instance, acids, bleaches and other harsh chemicals may corrode the steel. In these cases, the nozzles, and often the entire machine, will be manufactured using plastic to ensure the interaction with the product will not be detrimental to the life of the machinery.

These are just a few of the nozzle options and topics to be considered when choosing the best nozzle for a project. To learn more about the different nozzles or which nozzles would provide the best solution for your own packaging project, contact a Packaging Specialist at LPS toll-free today at 1-888-393-3693.