Container Handling Equipment in Bottling Lines
Handlers encompass a broad category of equipment that manages container orientation, elevation, and transfer within a bottling line. This includes container turners, twist conveyors, elevators, lowerers, and transfer devices. While often overlooked, these components are essential for smooth production flow and must be compatible with your specific container types and line layout.
Types of Handling Equipment
- Container turners — rotate containers 90° or 180° for specific processing requirements
- Twist conveyors — gradually rotate containers along a conveyor path
- Elevators and lowerers — change container elevation between machines at different working heights
- Laner/combiners — merge or separate container flows between processing stages
- Neck handling systems — grip PET bottles by the neck ring for air conveyor transport
Critical Inspection Points
- Guide rail and handling surface condition — worn surfaces damage containers and labels
- Drive system — check motors, gearboxes, and belts for wear
- Container format compatibility — verify the handler works with your specific bottle dimensions
- Speed rating — ensure the handler can keep pace with your line speed
- Integration points — confirm compatible height, width, and conveyor connections
Common Issues
Problems to Watch For
- Container damage from worn guide surfaces — particularly problematic for labelled containers
- Speed limitations that create line bottlenecks
- Incompatible container formats requiring expensive modifications
- Excessive noise from worn bearings or drive components
Frequently asked questions
Do I need specific handlers for PET vs glass bottles?
Yes — PET and glass bottles require different handling approaches. PET bottles are often transported by neck handling (air conveyors), while glass bottles use slat-band or mat-top conveyors. Handling equipment must match your container type.
How do I determine the right elevator height?
Measure the working height of each machine the elevator connects. The elevator must bridge the height difference while maintaining your required line speed. Include space for accumulation at both the inlet and outlet.